Rich and creamy bourbon caramel sauce made with sugar, butter, cream, and a splash of bourbon. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, brownies, pancakes, or coffee, this homemade caramel sauce adds a deep, flavorful touch to desserts and sweet treats.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
½ cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature
¼ cup butter, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp bourbon
1 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

Caramelize the Sugar:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Briefly stir to mix. Heat over medium-high, but do not stir as the sugar caramelizes. The mixture will change from clear to champagne, then light golden, and finally deep amber (similar to a copper penny). Watch closely, as it darkens quickly.
Add Cream Carefully:
Remove the pan from heat. Slowly pour in the room-temperature cream while whisking continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so pour carefully to avoid splatters.
Incorporate Butter and Flavorings:
Add the butter and whisk until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, bourbon, and sea salt until fully combined.
Cool or Serve:
The sauce can be served immediately, or allowed to cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, buttery caramel with a hint of bourbon for a complex flavor.
Smooth, creamy texture that pours easily over desserts.
Quick to make and perfect for enhancing a variety of sweet treats.

Tips

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
Make sure cream and butter are at room temperature to avoid splattering.
Keep a close eye on the sugar—it can go from perfect amber to burnt in seconds.

Variations and Substitutions

Liquor: Substitute bourbon with rum or whiskey for a different twist.
Cream: Use half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce.
Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for extra depth.
Salt: Adjust sea salt to taste for a sweeter or more balanced flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the sauce keeps in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Rewarm gently before serving.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger saucepan and watch the caramel carefully, as it may cook faster.

Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle over ice cream, cheesecake, or brownies.
Use as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
Stir into coffee, hot chocolate, or milkshakes for a boozy twist.
Serve with fresh fruit like apples or pears for a decadent dessert option.