The kids are back to school and even though the days are still warm and humid, the evenings have a hint of that crisp fall air. With fall comes all of my favorite fall flavors like apple, pumpkin, and caramel. I don’t like to buy store bought caramel or caramel sauce because of all of the unnecessary ingredients added to give shelf life. Making your own caramel sauce is not difficult and you won’t be disappointed with the amazing flavor! This is the perfect caramel sauce for ice cream, brownies, and apple slices. Just drizzle a little of this caramel sauce over whip cream or straight into your coffee. You can’t go wrong with fresh caramel sauce!
Homemade Caramel Sauce
Making your own caramel sauce can be rewarding for several reasons. The first and most important is taste. Nothing compares to fresh, homemade caramel. It is fresher and has a richer, more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought caramel sauce. Another reason is that when you make caramel sauce at home, you can choose high-quality ingredients and avoid preservatives or artificial additives often found in pre-packaged versions. Another cool thing about homemade caramel sauce is that it can be tailored to your taste. You can adjust the sweetness, add a touch of salt for salted caramel sauce, or incorporate flavors like vanilla, bourbon, or espresso.
This easy caramel sauce recipe uses simple ingredients and there is no candy thermometer needed.
Caramel Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar (you can use granulated sugar, light brown, or dark brown sugar- the darker the sugar the more strong of a molasses flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/3 cup yogurt
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Why I use yogurt in my caramel recipe:
- The tanginess of yogurt complements the sweetness of caramel, creating a pleasing contrast that enhances both flavors.
- The smooth, creamy texture of yogurt pairs well with the thick, sticky texture of caramel sauce, making for a satisfying mouthfeel.
- Using yogurt can make the sweet sauce slightly healthier, as yogurt can be lower in fat and calories.
How To Make Caramel Sauce
In a heavy sauce pan, whisk together the sugar and water. Heat on low, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Once they are fully combined, turn the heat up to medium and bring the solution to a boil.
Continue cooking the mixture at a low boil without stirring for 10-15 minutes. Scrape any sugar crystals from the side, if they form.
Remove the sugar mixture from heat. After the sugar caramelizes, butter and cream will be added to create a liquid sauce.
Slowly add the yogurt as you constantly stir. The sugar will become hard quickly but when the yogurt is added it will return to a deep amber color liquid.
Once the yogurt is fully combined, add the butter and vanilla. Continue stirring until the mixture is completely smooth.
Pour the caramel sauce into a heat-safe glass jar such as a Mason jar or a Ball jar. Allow caramel sauce to cool to room temperature. Serve, or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Hot Caramel Sauce Uses:
- Toppings: Drizzled over ice cream, cakes, pies, pancakes, waffles, and other desserts. Think homemade salted caramel sauce over vanilla ice cream.
- Fillings: Used in pastries, chocolates, and layered desserts. Think caramel brownies.
- Flavor Enhancer: Mixed into coffee, hot chocolate, or milkshakes. Think caramel macchiatos.
I’ve made similar recipes using heavy cream or buttermilk but love how this delicious caramel sauce turns out using yogurt instead.
Printable Recipe Card For Carmel Sauce
Homemade Caramel Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/3 cup yogurt
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp vanilla
Instructions
- Combine the sugar and water in a heavy sauce pan. Heat on low, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- After the sugar is dissolved turn the heat to medium and bring to a boil.
- Continue cooking at a low boil without stirring for 10-15 minutes. Scrape any sugar crystals from the side if they form.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and slowly add the yogurt. The sugar will become hard quickly but when the yogurt is added it will return to a liquid.
- After the yogurt is combined add the butter and vanilla and continue stirring until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before using. It will thicken as it cools.
Nutrition Facts
Homemade Caramel Sauce
Serves:
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 261.38 kcal | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 12.18 g | 18.5% | |
| Saturated Fat 7.72 g | 35% | |
| Trans Fat 0.47 g | ||
| Cholesterol 33.18 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium 21.99 mg | 0.9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 36.93 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars 36.54 g | ||
| Protein 0.87 g | ||
| Vitamin A 11.4 % | Vitamin C 0.11 % | |
| Calcium 5.9 % | Iron 1.52 % | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Conclusion
Yogurt in caramel sauce is a delightful combination that balances tangy and creamy flavors of yogurt with the rich sweetness of caramel. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. The Caramel Sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks without added preservatives or unnatural ingredients! Warm it slightly before using.
Homemade caramel sauce is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Plus, it just tastes so good! This Homemade Caramel Sauce is perfect over ice cream, on top of an apple muffin or other baked goods, and delicious in coffee. I’m sure it would be wonderful on so many things. My husband loves this sauce over hot apple pie and ice cream. Do you think you will make this easy homemade caramel sauce yourself?
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Donna Hup says
I love that there is NO high fructose corn syrup in your recipe. I can’t wait to try it!
Anne Campbell says
My mom just brought us a load of homemade banana bread today, and this creamy caramel sauce would be delish with it. I actually have these ingredients, so it’s going on the dessert menu tonight! Thanks for the step-by-step photos.
Sharisse says
The yogurt is an interesting addition! I keep meaning to make caramel sauce, and now it’s perfect for all of the yummy fall desserts coming up. Thanks for sharing!
Farrah says
This is best salted caramel sauce. I never knew it was so easy to make caramel. I will do this from now on since it is so much yummy than caramel syrup.
Noz says
I just love caramel sauce. Thanks for showing me how to make it!