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Easy Butterscotch Sauce

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1½ cups 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Sauces
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Butterscotch Sauce is rich, buttery, and full of deep caramel-like flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, or even stirring into coffee. Ready in just 10 minutes, this homemade sauce is way better than store-bought!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Step 1: Melt the Butter
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted.
  • Step 2: Add the Sugar & Cream
  • Stir in the brown sugar and salt, mixing until combined.
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
  • Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will start to thicken.
  • Step 4: Add Vanilla & Cool
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Let the sauce cool slightly before using. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before using.
  • Salted vs. Unsalted Butter: If using salted butter, reduce the added salt to ¼ teaspoon.
  • Make It Boozy: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or rum for an extra flavor kick.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Serving Ideas
  • Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or apple pie.
  • Use as a dip for apples or pretzels.
  • Stir into coffee, hot chocolate, or cocktails for a sweet touch.
  • Layer in parfaits, cheesecakes, or trifles.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~90
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg