If you’ve ever craved the rich, buttery goodness of homemade caramel but felt overwhelmed by the process, then you’re in for a delightful surprise! This 5-minute Salted Caramel recipe is as simple as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time, you can whip up a luscious caramel sauce that will elevate everything from desserts to breakfast treats. Whether drizzled over ice cream or incorporated into your favorite baked goods, this salted caramel will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 5-minute Salted Caramel is not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Speedy Preparation: As the name suggests, you can have this decadent caramel ready in just five minutes.
Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients at home, making it easy to whip up on a whim.
Endless Uses: Use it as a topping for desserts, fillings for pastries, or even as an ingredient in baked goods like Salted Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies.
Customizable Flavor: Adjust the saltiness to your liking for that perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to make this 5-minute Salted Caramel:

Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (113g), cubed – This is the star of the show, adding richness and flavor.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed – Brown sugar gives the caramel its deep, molasses-like flavor.
Milk: 1/4 cup (59ml) – Adds creaminess and helps achieve the perfect texture.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (more to taste) – The key ingredient that transforms sweet into a delightful balance.

Prep & Cook Tools

Gather these essential tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable:

Medium Saucepan: Perfect for melting the butter and combining the ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for stirring and ensuring a smooth caramel texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best results.
Heatproof Container: For storing your finished caramel, make sure it can withstand heat.

The Method for 5-minute Salted Caramel

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the cubed unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t brown.

Step 2: Add Brown Sugar

Once the butter is melted, add the packed brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully combined and starts to bubble gently.

Step 3: Incorporate the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to stir. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about a minute.

Step 4: Flavor it Up

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and kosher salt, tasting to adjust the saltiness according to your preference.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Let the caramel cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a heatproof container. It will thicken as it cools, becoming the perfect consistency for drizzling or dipping.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of this 5-minute Salted Caramel, consider these alternatives:

Butter: Stick with unsalted butter, as it’s naturally low in carbs.
Brown Sugar Substitute: Use a brown sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to maintain sweetness without the carbs.
Heavy Cream: Replace milk with heavy cream for a richer, more decadent flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Ensure the vanilla extract is sugar-free.

Cook’s Notes

This 5-minute Salted Caramel can be adjusted to your taste. Feel free to add more salt for a saltier kick!
If the caramel thickens too much after cooling, you can gently reheat it with a splash of milk to loosen it up.
For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon for an extra layer of flavor!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftover 5-minute Salted Caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, stirring to restore its smooth texture. Enjoy this caramel over pancakes, waffles, or as a drizzle over ice cream or desserts like Chocolate Dipped Toffee Pecan Shortbread Cookies.

Reader Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of how much additional salt you add. Taste as you go to find the right balance!

What can I use this caramel for?

This 5-minute Salted Caramel is perfect for drizzling over desserts, mixing into brownies, or even as a sweet addition to coffee! The possibilities are endless.

How can I make this caramel thicker?

If you want a thicker caramel, allow it to cook a bit longer after adding the milk. Just be careful not to burn it!

Can I freeze this salted caramel?

Yes! The caramel can be frozen in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

That’s a Wrap

Indulging in homemade caramel doesn’t have to be a labor-intensive process. With this 5-minute Salted Caramel recipe, you can create a sweet, salty treat that will elevate your desserts and satisfy your cravings in no time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this caramel sauce is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade salted caramel!