Servings<\/span>4<\/p>servings<\/span><\/div><\/span>Prep time<\/span>30<\/p>minutes<\/span><\/div><\/span>Cooking time<\/span>40<\/p>minutes<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>Ingredients<\/h3>- <\/span>
Ingredients<\/span><\/p><\/li>- <\/span>
1 cup granulated sugar<\/span><\/p><\/li>- <\/span>
\u00bc cup water<\/span><\/p><\/li>- <\/span>
\u00bd cup heavy cream<\/span><\/p><\/li>- <\/span>
1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)<\/span><\/p><\/li>- <\/span>
A pinch of salt (to balance out the sweetness)<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Directions<\/h3>- How To Make 6-Minute Caramel Recipe<\/li>
- Start Simple: In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Ensure that the sugar is evenly moistened.<\/li>
- Heat it Up: Place the pan over medium-high heat. Allow the sugar to dissolve completely without stirring. Resist the urge to stir as this can cause the sugar to crystallize.<\/li>
- Observe the Change: Once the sugar has dissolved, keep a close eye on the syrup. It will start to bubble after a minute or two. The bubbles will get bigger and then smaller as the water evaporates.<\/li>
- Seek the Golden Hue: After 4-5 minutes, the syrup will turn into a beautiful amber color. This is the caramel stage you\u2019re aiming for.<\/li>
- Cool it Down: Immediately remove from heat. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.<\/li>
- Add Flavors: Whisk in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until you have a smooth, silky caramel.<\/li>
- Serve and Impress: Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, or any dessert of your choice. Enjoy the delightful taste of your homemade 6-minute caramel!<\/li>
- Expert Tips:<\/li>
- Pan Choice Matters: Using a light-colored pan can help you see the color change more easily.<\/li>
- Safety First: Caramel can burn quickly and is extremely hot. Always exercise caution.<\/li>
- Crystallization Woes: If you notice the sugar crystallizing on the sides of the pan, brush it down with a wet pastry brush.<\/li>
- The Secrets Behind Perfect 6-Minute Caramel:<\/li>
- The Sugar-Water Ratio: The combination of sugar and water is crucial. Too much water can dilute the caramel, while too little can cause burning.<\/li>
- Constant Vigilance: Keeping a watchful eye is essential. The transition from clear syrup to amber caramel can be quick.<\/li>
- Temperature Control: Ensure your burner maintains a consistent medium-high heat. Too hot, and you risk burning; too low, and it won\u2019t caramelize in 6 minutes.<\/li>
- Serving Suggestions:<\/li>
- Decadent Breakfast: Drizzle over waffles, pancakes, or French toast and top with fresh berries.<\/li>
- Dessert Time: Enhance the flavor of brownies, cheesecakes, or puddings by adding a caramel layer.<\/li>
- Drink Enhancer: Add a spoonful to your coffee or hot chocolate for a caramel twist.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>