Description

This rich and luscious Bourbon Caramel Sauce combines deep caramelized sugar flavors with a hint of smooth bourbon, making it a perfect topping for desserts, ice cream, or even as a dip for fresh fruit. The sauce is smooth and velvety thanks to the butter and heavy cream, with a subtle vanilla aroma enhancing every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramel Base

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons corn syrup
Pinch of salt

Sauce Ingredients

1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon bourbon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine granulated sugar, water, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Swirl the pan occasionally to help dissolve the sugar evenly. Boil the mixture until it turns the rich amber color of iced tea, approximately 10 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent scorching as the caramelization process can accelerate quickly once started.
Add cream and bourbon: Remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream and bourbon, being cautious of the steam that may rise. This step will partially cool and thin the caramel while infusing it with bourbon flavor.
Incorporate butter and vanilla: Off the heat, whisk in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. This enriches the sauce and imparts a velvety texture.
Cool and store: Transfer the finished bourbon caramel sauce to a heatproof bowl to cool and thicken slightly. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the microwave or over low heat in a saucepan before serving. The sauce can also be enjoyed cold as a dip, especially with fresh apples.

Notes

Be patient when cooking the caramel; it takes time to reach the right color but can burn quickly once it starts.
Add cream and bourbon off heat to prevent vigorous bubbling and splattering.
Store leftover sauce covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheat gently to preserve the smooth texture and prevent burning.
Use high-quality bourbon and vanilla extract for best flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Bourbon caramel sauce, caramel sauce recipe, bourbon dessert sauce, homemade caramel, dessert topping