Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk
- Candy thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Whisk until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil.
3. Allow the mixture to boil until it turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the heavy cream. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up.
5. Add the unsalted butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract, whisking until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Let the sauce cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 cup of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use light cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of sea salt accordingly.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon or whiskey for a boozy twist.
- Swap out the sea salt for smoked salt for a unique flavor.
- Stir in a tablespoon of espresso powder for a coffee-flavored sauce.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be patient when boiling the sugar and water mixture. It takes time to turn amber in color.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Drizzle the sauce over ice cream, brownies, or cake.
- Use it as a dip for fruit or pretzels.
- Pour it into a jar and tie a ribbon around it for a homemade gift.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the sauce for added flavor.
- Top with whipped cream or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve the sauce with vanilla ice cream or apple pie.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- No side dishes needed.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the sauce is too thin, return it to the heat and boil for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar as it can cause burns.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Food History:
- Caramel and butterscotch sauces have been enjoyed for centuries, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the 1840s.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet, salty, and buttery.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the sauce warm or at room temperature.
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Taste: Sweet, Salty, Caramel, Butterscotch