Want to know how to make easy caramel? This quick and simple recipe uses just three ingredients to create a thick caramel sauce that is perfect for pouring over ice cream, stirring into coffee, or dipping apple slices. Let me show you some tips for caramel making so you can whip up this easy 3 ingredient caramel sauce in no time!
Watch my video below for a simple, step-by-step recipe for creating this delicious and thick Caramel Sauce. If you enjoy it, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more easy and tasty, and sweet recipes!
Why You Should Try This 3 Ingredient Caramel Sauce
This 3-ingredient caramel sauce is quick, foolproof, and absolutely delicious. With just sugar, butter, and cream, you can make a rich and creamy caramel perfect for desserts, coffee, and more!

- Only 3 ingredients – No need for fancy ingredients or special equipment.
- Better than store-bought – No additives, just pure, buttery goodness.
- Customizable – Adjust the thickness and flavor to your liking.
- Easy caramel making – Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
- Great for storage – Keep it in the fridge and reheat whenever needed.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
A rich, thick caramel sauce needs just a few simple ingredients to get that perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Grab what you need, and let’s make something delicious!

- 1½ cups (300g) Granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp (71g) Unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (240g) Heavy cream, room temperature
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- A heavy-bottomed saucepan is also important to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
How to Make This Easy Caramel
Ready to make this easy caramel recipe at home? Just follow these simple steps belwo, and you’ll have a rich, buttery caramel perfect for drizzling, stirring, or enjoying by the spoonful!

Step 1: Melt the Sugar
Heat the sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly as it melts. If sugar sticks to the sides, brush it down with a wet pastry brush to prevent grainy caramel.
Step 2: Add the Butter
Once the sugar turns a warm brown color, add the butter. Be careful—it will bubble up! Keep stirring to combine the butter fully, allowing the caramel to deepen in color for a richer taste.

Tip: Cut the butter into small pieces before adding it so it melts more evenly.
Step 3: Pour in the Cream
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Take your time to prevent bubbling over. The mixture will become creamy and smooth.
Tip: Make sure the cream is at room temperature to avoid sudden temperature shocks that can cause the caramel to seize.
Step 4: Add a Pinch of Salt (Optional)
A little salt balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor. Stir it in and then remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 5: Store & Enjoy

Pour the thick caramel sauce into a glass jar while it’s still warm. Let it cool slightly before using. It can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks—just reheat it before serving!
Related recipe: Want another way to make caramel? Try these 5 easy methods to turn condensed milk into caramel, from quick stovetop tricks to slow, rich caramelization!
Tasty Ways to Use This Caramel Sauce
Drizzle over pancakes or waffles. Stir into the coffee. Dip pretzels. Swirl into brownies. So many options!

Easy Ways to Customize It
Love sweet and salty? Add a pinch of sea salt.
Want more flavor? Stir in vanilla or warm spices like cinnamon.
Feeling fancy? A splash of bourbon takes it up a notch.
How will you enjoy yours?
Common Caramel Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Even with an easy caramel recipe, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are a few common caramel-making mistakes and tips to fix them:
- Caramel is grainy – This happens when sugar crystals form on the sides of the pan. Use a wet pastry brush to dissolve them, or avoid stirring once the sugar starts melting.
- Caramel is too bitter – It may have been cooked too long. Next time, remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches a deep amber color.
- Caramel is too thin – Let it cook a little longer to thicken, or try reducing the cream slightly.
How to Store & Reheat Caramel
Homemade caramel can last for weeks if stored properly. Keep it fresh with these tips:

- Storage – Pour the caramel into a heatproof glass jar and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Reheating – Warm it in the microwave in 10-second intervals or heat it gently on the stovetop until smooth.
- Freezing – Caramel can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
More Sweet Recipes to Try
If you love making thick caramel sauce, here are more simple and delicious recipes to satisfy your sweet cravings. From homemade dulce de leche to transforming dark chocolate into creamy milk chocolate, these recipes are fun and easy to make!

- How To Make Dulce De Leche From Condensed Milk In The Oven
Learn how to turn condensed milk into rich, creamy dulce de leche with just an oven. This method gives you a smooth, caramel-like spread perfect for desserts or spooning straight from the jar! - How To Make Brown Sugar – So Easy!
No brown sugar? No problem! This quick and easy recipe shows you how to make fresh brown sugar at home using just two ingredients. - How To Turn Dark Chocolate Into Milk Chocolate (Smooth and Creamy)
Love milk chocolate but only have dark? This simple method lets you transform dark chocolate into smooth, creamy milk chocolate with just a few extra ingredients!