Description
This homemade salted caramel ice cream is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a perfectly balanced sweet and salty caramel sauce swirled throughout a smooth ice cream base. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a touch of sea salt, this recipe delivers an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Be patient and careful to avoid burning.
- Add Butter: Once the sugar is fully melted, carefully add the 6 tablespoons of butter. The mixture will bubble up vigorously, so stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Add Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream while stirring. Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Season with Salt: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Set the caramel aside to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Ice Cream Base: In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine Caramel and Base: Once the caramel has cooled, gradually whisk it into the ice cream base until fully incorporated.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4-6 hours. For the creamiest texture, stir the ice cream every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours to break up ice crystals.
- Serve: Scoop the fully frozen salted caramel ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Notes
- Be cautious when melting sugar as it can burn quickly. Do not walk away during caramelization.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt in the caramel to your taste preference for saltiness.
- Stirring during freezing helps prevent large ice crystals and improves creaminess.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, this method produces a good texture but may be slightly less smooth.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract and fresh cream for the best flavor.
