The BEST Caramel Sauce

Melt sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan (light-colored preferred), heat sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula as it melts.→ It will clump, then dissolve into a deep amber liquid (~5–8 min). Do not walk away—sugar burns quickly!

Add butter: Once fully melted and amber-colored, immediately add butter. Whisk until melted and combined (mixture will bubble vigorously—this is normal!).

Add cream: Slowly pour in warm heavy cream while whisking constantly. Mixture will bubble again—keep whisking until smooth.

Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool slightly before using.

Drizzle over: ice cream, brownies, cheesecake, apple slices

Stir into: coffee, hot chocolate, oatmeal

Dip for: churros, pretzels, fruit

Makes about 1¼ cups