Easy Microwave Caramel Sauce
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
7 mins
My Microwave Salted Caramel Sauce is ready in under 7 minutes with just 5 ingredients—perfect for drizzling over ice cream, brownies & cakes.
Course:
Ingredient
Cuisine:
American
Servings: 1.5 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup (6 oz/170 g) dark brown sugar
- ½ cup (4 fl oz/120 ml) heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons (2 oz/60 g) butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
-
In a large microwavable jug, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream and butter.
-
Microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds and repeat until the mixture reaches a golden color, about 1½ - 2 mins. Note that the caramel will bubble up as it cooks.
-
Add in the vanilla and salt and whisk immediately until smooth.
-
Allow to cool and enjoy over ice cream or by the spoonful! Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 8 weeks.
Recipe Notes
- Use a Large Microwave-Safe Jug: Gives the caramel room to bubble up without spilling over.
- Stir Between Intervals: Mix thoroughly after each microwave interval so the sugar dissolves evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Watch the Color Carefully: Remove from the microwave when the mixture is a rich golden caramel; it will thicken as it cools.
- Add Vanilla & Salt Immediately: Stir in right after microwaving to preserve the flavor and aroma.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk thoroughly for a glossy, lump-free sauce and to prevent sugar crystallization.
- Let Cool Before Storing: The sauce will thicken as it cools. Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 8 weeks.
- Reheat Gently: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until pourable without overcooking.
- Adjust Sweetness if Desired: Reduce sugar by a quarter or a third for a less sweet sauce, keeping an eye on cooking time.
- Use Immediately or Plan Ahead: Works perfectly on ice cream, brownies, cakes, or as a quick dessert topper during emergencies.