At Melvin’s, we believe every dessert deserves a little something extra to make it unforgettable, and this Boozy Salted Caramel Sauce is just the thing. Rich, golden caramel meets a hint of sea salt for that perfect sweet-and-savory balance, while luscious butter and cream take it to pure decadence. But what truly sets this sauce apart is the splash of bourbon. It laces the caramel with a warm, smoky depth that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re drizzling it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a brownie, or even your morning pancakes, this sauce elevates the simplest treats into something extraordinary. It’s indulgence in a jar, and we can’t wait for you to try it.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark)
Instructions
Prepare the Pan: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to combine.
Cook the Sugar: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. You can gently swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. Watch closely as it begins to bubble and change color.
Caramelize the Sugar: Continue cooking until the sugar turns a deep amber color, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer if you have one; the ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C). Be careful not to let it burn.
Add Butter: Once the desired color is achieved, remove the pan from heat and carefully whisk in the unsalted butter until fully melted and combined. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so take caution.
Incorporate Cream and Salt: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. This will cause more bubbling, but keep whisking until smooth. Add the salt and mix well.
Finish with Bourbon: Allow the caramel sauce to cool for about 5 minutes before whisking in the bourbon. Adjust the amount of bourbon according to your taste preference.
Store: Pour the caramel sauce into heatproof jars or containers. Let it cool completely before sealing with a lid. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
This Boozy Salted Caramel Sauce is perfect for drizzling over desserts like ice cream, brownies, or even pancakes!