Introduction

Bourbon caramel sauce is a luscious, rich topping perfect for desserts or even breakfast treats. This smooth and buttery sauce blends the deep flavors of caramelized sugar with a hint of warm bourbon, creating an irresistible addition to your favorite dishes.

A small glass jar filled to the top with smooth, shiny caramel sauce, slightly overflowing and dripping down the sides. The jar is placed on a round black tray with some caramel spilled beside it. In the background, there is a glass container with more caramel sauce inside. The scene is set on a wooden surface with a dark brown cloth nearby and a dark, soft-focused backdrop that contrasts with the rich caramel color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream, room temperature
¼ cup (2 ounces) bourbon, warmed in the microwave for 15-20 seconds

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the granulated sugar in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or whisk to prevent burning. The sugar will melt gradually, turning a rich amber color after about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Once fully melted, whisk in the room temperature butter. Keep stirring until the butter is fully incorporated. The mixture will bubble vigorously, which is normal. If the butter separates, briefly remove the pan from heat and continue whisking until smooth.
Step 3: Let the mixture cook for 1 minute, then slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring. Be cautious, as the sauce may bubble up. Stir until smooth and allow it to simmer for another minute.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the warmed bourbon while whisking continuously. Let the sauce simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until it slightly thickens and the alcohol smell diminishes.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool for about 10 minutes. Transfer the bourbon caramel sauce to a heatproof jar or container. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
Step 6: Serve the sauce warm or cold. If refrigerated, gently warm it in a saucepan or microwave to restore its pourable consistency before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning the sugar.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon and add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
For a deeper flavor, use a high-quality bourbon and warm it before adding to the sauce.
Store the sauce in a clean, airtight container to maintain freshness.

Storage

Store bourbon caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and pourable.

How to Serve

A small glass jar is filled to the top with thick, smooth caramel sauce that spills slightly over the edge, creating a rich golden-brown layer on top and a small puddle on a round black plate underneath it. The jar is centered in the image with a blurry glass container of the same caramel in the background, all placed on a wooden table with a dark brown cloth nearby, set against a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use light or dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

It’s best to use granulated sugar for this recipe because it melts and caramelizes more predictably. Brown sugar contains molasses which can change the texture and flavor of the sauce.

What can I use bourbon caramel sauce on?

This sauce is delicious drizzled over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, apple pie, or even roasted nuts. It also adds a rich flavor to coffee or hot chocolate when used sparingly.