Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This Drinking Caramel recipe yields a rich, creamy sauce perfect for adding a cozy sweetness to your favorite warm beverages. With deep toasted brown sugar notes and a touch of sea salt, it’s a delightful treat for coffee or hot chocolate lovers.

Ingredients
- 1 cup Wholesome!™ Organic Light Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the brown sugar in a large deep sauté pan. Add the water and heat over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a low boil, allowing the sugar to darken to a deep brown color and develop a toasted aroma, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Step 2: Slowly and carefully whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up initially, then thicken before loosening and blending smoothly with the cream.
- Step 3: Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract. Simmer the caramel for another 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 4: Ladle the warm caramel into espresso cups or small mugs and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce with less richness.
- Make a larger batch and keep it refrigerated, reheating gently before serving.
Storage
Store any leftover caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to restore the smooth texture before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar provides a richer, more complex flavor and moisture that granulated sugar lacks, so for best results, stick with brown sugar.
What can I serve this drinking caramel with?
This caramel sauce is perfect stirred into coffee, hot chocolate, or even drizzled over ice cream or desserts for an extra indulgent touch.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4–5 servings 1x
Description
This Drinking Caramel Recipe is a luscious and creamy caramel sauce made from organic light brown sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of sea salt and vanilla. Perfect for serving warm in espresso cups, it’s an indulgent treat that offers a rich toasted flavor and smooth texture, ideal as a cozy beverage or dessert companion.
Ingredients
Caramel Base
- 1 cup Wholesome!™ Organic Light Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Finishing Ingredients
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Caramelize the Sugar: Place the light brown sugar and water in a large deep sauté pan, then heat over medium heat. Bring the sugar mixture to a low boil and allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, until it darkens to a deep brown color and gives off a toasted aroma, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Slowly and carefully whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will initially boil up and firm, but continue whisking gently as it loosens and fully blends into the cream.
- Add Salt and Vanilla: Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the warm caramel sauce into espresso cups and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a deep pan to safely accommodate the boiling and expansion of the caramel mixture when adding cream.
- Stir constantly when adding cream to avoid crystallization and ensure smooth caramel.
- Serve immediately while warm for a perfect sipping experience.
- Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: drinking caramel, caramel sauce, warm caramel drink, homemade caramel, organic brown sugar caramel

