Sauces-and-drizzles   |   How to Make a Homemade Caramel Drizzle (Classic Recipe + 5-Minute Cheat Version)

How to Make a Homemade Caramel Drizzle (Classic Recipe + 5-Minute Cheat Version)

By a Bug & a Bean | Posted on 2025-09-02

Learn how to make rich, buttery caramel sauce at home! Includes a classic stovetop caramel recipe and a quick 5-minute cheat version with brown sugar. Perfect for coffee, desserts, and fall treats.

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COFFEE  FALL KITCHEN  

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Nothing beats the taste of homemade caramel sauce—sweet, buttery, and just the right amount of rich. Whether you want to master the classic stovetop caramel sauce or need a quick 5-minute shortcut, this post has you covered.

Use it in lattes, drizzle it over pancakes, or make your apple slices taste like a carnival treat.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Sauces

  • Two methods: Choose between a traditional stovetop version or a quick cheat.
  • Versatile: Perfect for coffee syrups, ice cream, baked goods, or fall desserts.
  • Better than store-bought: Fresh, rich, and customizable.
  • Easy to store: Keeps up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Recipe 1: Classic Caramel Sauce

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cubed, room temp)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temp)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

  1. Heat sugar in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into an amber liquid.
  2. Add butter and stir until melted (it will bubble).
  3. Slowly pour in cream while stirring (it will bubble again). Simmer 1–2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt.
  5. Let cool before transferring to a jar.

Storage: Refrigerate up to 2 weeks. Warm slightly before using.

Recipe 2: 5-Minute Cheat Caramel Sauce

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine brown sugar, cream, and butter in a small saucepan.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking constantly.
  3. Simmer 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla (and salt if desired).
  5. Cool and store in a jar.

Storage: Refrigerate up to 2 weeks. Thin with a splash of cream if needed.

Tips & Variations

  • Dark vs. light brown sugar: Dark = stronger molasses flavor, light = milder sweetness.
  • Salted caramel: Always add a pinch of flaky sea salt for a richer flavor.
  • Coffee syrup: Stir into espresso or lattes for a fall treat.
  • Dessert drizzle: Pour warm over brownies, apple pie, or ice cream.

Homemade caramel sauce is easier than you think—whether you go classic or quick. Try both recipes and see which one becomes your go-to!