The Dark Caramel Sauce Recipe is rich, deep, and full of flavor. It has a bold sweetness with a slight bitter note that makes it perfect for desserts.
You can drizzle it over ice cream, cakes, or even coffee. Let’s make this simple yet fancy sauce at home.
What Is Dark Caramel Sauce Recipe?
Dark caramel sauce is made by cooking sugar until it turns a deep amber color. This gives it a deep, slightly smoky flavor that’s not too sweet. It’s thicker and more flavorful than light caramel.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- ½ tsp salt (optional for salted caramel)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How To Make Dark Caramel Sauce
Step 1: Heat the sugar
Place sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat. Stir slowly as it melts and turns golden brown.
Step 2: Let it darken
Keep cooking until the sugar turns dark amber. Be careful — it can burn quickly.
Step 3: Add butter
Add butter and stir until fully melted. The mixture will bubble, so stir carefully.
Step 4: Add cream
Slowly pour in the cream while stirring. The sauce will bubble again — keep stirring until smooth.
Step 5: Add flavor
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt (if using).
Step 6: Cool and store
Let the sauce cool before using. Store it in a glass jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips For Perfect Dark Caramel
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heat.
- Don’t step away while cooking the sugar — it burns fast.
- For a thicker sauce, cook a little longer before adding cream.
- Always add room-temperature cream to avoid splattering.
How To Use It
- Drizzle on ice cream or cheesecake.
- Mix into your morning coffee.
- Pour over warm brownies.
- Use as filling for cakes or pastries.
Flavor Variations
- Salted Caramel: Add ½ tsp sea salt.
- Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Boozy Caramel: Add a splash of rum or bourbon after removing from heat.
Nutrition (Per Tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 |
| Total Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Final Thoughts
This dark caramel sauce is simple but tastes like something from a fancy bakery. Its deep flavor and glossy texture can make any dessert special. Try it once, and you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge always!
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Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
