Name: Foolproof Salted Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1 cup
Cuisine: American

From the Cook

1/3

Foolproof Salted Caramel Sauce

atsloanestable.com

Instructions

This recipe also lives on Sloan’s Table. Show them some love by checking it out! 😊

Check out original post! 😊

Original PostView

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, salt, cream of tartar, and water.

Heat over medium high heat, stirring often with a rubber spatula to encourage even cooking.

When it comes to a boil reduce heat to medium and continue stirring often.

When the color turns an even medium amber color remove from heat and add the heavy cream, quickly mixing until fully combined.

Then, mix in the butter and vanilla.

Transfer to a glass jar to cool, stir in a pinch or two of flaky sea salt, then chill in the fridge overnight or until ready to use.

My Calorie Intake

0
Review & Earn

Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus

Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!

My Notes

Your kitchen notebook is waiting.

Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.

Tips & Tricks (5)

Watch the Color Change 👀
Without a thermometer, monitor the sugar's color progression from clear to light amber to deep amber—this visual cue is your guide to perfect caramel doneness. Stop cooking immediately when it reaches a rich golden-brown hue to prevent burning.
Cream of Tartar is Your Safety Net 🛡️
This ingredient prevents crystallization by interfering with sugar crystal formation, making your caramel smooth and foolproof. Adding it to the sugar and water mixture from the start is what eliminates the guesswork and common caramel failures.
Swirl, Don't Stir 🌀
Once the sugar mixture is heating, gently swirl the pan rather than stirring to encourage even cooking and prevent crystallization. This gentle motion distributes heat uniformly without agitating the sugar crystals.
Room Temperature Cream Addition ❄️
Always add cold or room-temperature heavy cream slowly to the hot caramel to prevent dangerous splattering and ensure a smooth, emulsified sauce. Pour it in a steady stream while gently whisking to create a luxurious texture.
Salt in Layers for Complexity 🧂
Use kosher salt mixed into the caramel for balanced flavor, then finish with flaky sea salt on top for textural contrast and visual appeal. This two-salt approach creates depth while the flaky salt adds a sophisticated crunch.

Intelligent Tags

Hi! I'm Sloane, welcome to Sloane’s Table! I am a Dartmouth College alumna, professional baker, recipe developer, and food photographer. Here, you will find tried & true bakery-worthy recipes ranging from simple sweets to technical pastries. Whether you are looking to challenge yourself and improve your baking skills or just want an easy, trust-worthy recipe, you're in the right place.

Recipe Facts

Diet at a Glance

Vegetarian

Gluten Free

My Calorie Intake

Smart Nutrition

Nutrition Per Serving

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More Recipes by Sloan’s Table

Check out more Sloan’s Table content!Browse Sloan’s Table recipes!

View All

Complete The Meal! 🔎

Quick Explore Recipes by Category

See All Other

No Recipes Available