6 Minute Caramel Recipe

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Imagine silky, buttery caramel sauce ready in just six minutes — yes, it’s possible! This luscious, golden caramel is the perfect topping for ice cream, cakes, cookies, or even just a sneaky spoonful straight from the pan. It’s rich, glossy, and carries that beautiful balance of sweet and slightly salty flavors that makes homemade caramel so irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just craving a fast treat fix, this 6 Minute Caramel Recipe is a total game-changer. No candy thermometer, no complicated steps — just simple ingredients and a few minutes standing at your stove. Prepare to fall in love with the easiest caramel you’ll ever make.

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Ingredients for 6 Minute Caramel Recipe

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt (optional, but highly recommended!)

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Step 1: Melt the Sugar

Place the granulated sugar into a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or a wooden spoon as the sugar begins to clump and eventually melt into a golden, liquid syrup. Be patient — it will look strange before it smooths out.

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Step 2: Add the Butter

Once the sugar has completely melted and turned a deep amber color, carefully add the butter pieces. The mixture will bubble up vigorously, so keep your hands at a safe distance. Stir the butter into the caramel until fully incorporated.

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Step 3: Slowly Pour in the Heavy Cream

After the butter has melted into the sugar, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Expect another round of bubbling — this is totally normal. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and luscious.

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Step 4: Add Vanilla and Salt

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt for extra depth of flavor. Mix well until everything is fully blended.

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Step 5: Let It Cool Slightly

Allow the caramel to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a heat-safe jar or container. It will thicken as it cools into a perfect pourable or spoonable texture.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your 6 Minute Caramel fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container or glass jar. Refrigerate the caramel once it cools completely. It will stay good for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, simply microwave the caramel in 10-15 second bursts, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can also freeze it! Pour the cooled caramel into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it slightly before using.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general idea per tablespoon serving of this caramel:

• Calories: 95
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 10mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 11g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 0g

(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sugar is best for this caramel?

Use plain granulated white sugar for the best results. Brown sugar will create a different texture and flavor.

Can I make this caramel without heavy cream?

You can substitute full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but the texture might be slightly thinner.

Why did my caramel crystallize?

Crystallization happens if sugar splashes up onto the sides of the pan and hardens. Stirring consistently and using a clean, heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent it.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger saucepan to avoid overflow, as the caramel bubbles up when adding butter and cream.

How can I make salted caramel?

Simply increase the sea salt to 1/2 teaspoon, or sprinkle flaky salt on top after the caramel cools slightly.

Can I use this caramel for candy-making?

This recipe is designed more for sauces and toppings. For chewy caramel candies, you’ll need a slightly different method involving a thermometer and higher temperatures.

How long does it take to cool and thicken?

It usually takes 10–15 minutes at room temperature to thicken to a perfect spoonable consistency.

What’s the best way to reheat cold caramel?

Microwave it in 10-second increments, stirring after each one, until it’s silky and pourable again.

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