Homemade Salted Caramel Syrup Recipe

If you are a fan of salty and sweet foods like I am, you may also enjoy a little salted caramel.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. [Learn more]

I discovered the delectable combination just over a year ago thanks to Harry London. I know… late to the game. But I have been hooked ever since.

Salted Caramel Syrup

This past weekend we had a few guests over and decided we wanted to make a layered dessert in a cup. As we began to throw around some thoughts,

I, of course, went with salted caramel. We tossed out ideas and decided on a Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cup. But, I wanted to make my own Salted Caramel Syrup to top it with.

The kids thought I was crazy considering we have caramel syrup in the fridge, but I thought homemade would be much better. It usually is, right?

What is Salted Caramel Syrup and Why is it So Popular?

Salted caramel syrup has become a beloved favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for that perfect balance of flavors.

The combination of the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel with just a touch of salt creates an irresistible contrast that takes desserts and beverages to a whole new level.

Salted caramel syrup can be used to add depth and complexity to anything from your morning coffee to a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

It’s this unique blend of salty and sweet that has led to its popularity, becoming a staple in both professional kitchens and home pantries.

Whether drizzled on pancakes, swirled into a latte, or mixed into baked goods, it’s that flavor that keeps us coming back for more.

Easy Ways to Use Salted Caramel Syrup at Home

\Wondering how to put that bottle of salted caramel syrup to good use? Here are some simple yet scrumptious ways to incorporate it into your everyday treats:

• Coffee and Lattes: Upgrade your usual coffee with a splash of salted caramel syrup for a cozy twist. It’s perfect for lattes, cold brews, and even hot chocolate, adding a rich, indulgent layer that makes your drink café-quality without the need for a barista.
• Dessert Topping: Drizzle it over ice cream, apple pie, or brownies for an instant flavor boost. The salty-sweet mix balances out rich desserts and adds a delicious gourmet touch to even the simplest desserts.
• Breakfast Treats: Add a drizzle to your pancakes, waffles, or French toast in place of maple syrup for a decadent start to the day. You can also mix a little into your oatmeal for a touch of sweetness without adding too much sugar.
• Cocktails: Salted caramel syrup isn’t just for coffee—try using it to create unique cocktails! Mix it with whiskey for a salted caramel old-fashioned, or shake it with vodka, cream, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a dessert-worthy martini.

The versatility of salted caramel syrup is endless, making it a must-have for anyone who loves to add a little flair to their favorite dishes.

DIY Salted Caramel Syrup Recipe: Make It at Home!

If you want to get hands-on, why not try making your own salted caramel syrup at home? Here’s a quick and easy recipe that will give you a rich, golden syrup that tastes just like the store-bought version—but even better.

Take a look at how we put it all together! (By the way, I had to laugh at the fact that my teenage son, who helped me make the syrup, did not know caramel was not much more than sugar and water).

Okay… now let’s proceed.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup water
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream (I have also heard that coconut milk works great)
• 3 tbsp butter, softened
• ¾ tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, heat sugar and water until sugar is dissolved. Stir as needed. 
2. Once dissolved, increase the heat to bring the sugar water to a boil. Do not stir, but continue to boil until the mixture turns a dark yellow, almost brown color. Do not let it burn. 
3. Quickly remove from heat and whisk heavy cream into mixture. Expect bubbles once it is added to hot contents.
4. Continue to whisk as you add the butter, sea salt, and vanilla until well blended. 

Allow the caramel to cool slightly before transferring it to a jar. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks.

You can also add more sea salt to your taste. Our finished caramel syrup had a hint of saltiness because we were using it with salted pretzels.

Adjust it to fit your recipe needs. The syrup also worked great as a dip for the sliced apples and apple chips we served.

Healthier Alternatives and Tips for Using Salted Caramel Syrup

If you love salted caramel syrup but want to keep an eye on your sugar intake, there are healthier options available:

• Low-Sugar and Sugar-Free Versions: Many brands now offer low-sugar or even sugar-free salted caramel syrups that still pack all the flavor without the calories. These are great options for those trying to reduce their sugar intake but still want a touch of sweetness in their coffee or dessert.
• Portion Control Tips: Since salted caramel syrup is quite rich, a little goes a long way. Try using a teaspoon or two instead of a large pour to get that hint of caramel flavor without going overboard. You can also dilute it with a bit of hot water if you need more volume with less intensity.

Enjoying salted caramel syrup can absolutely fit into a balanced lifestyle. By choosing portion sizes that suit your dietary goals and opting for lower-sugar versions, you can have the best of both worlds—flavor and moderation.

How will you use the salted caramel syrup?