
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy and sweet, with the delightful texture of caramel ribbons throughout. Easy to make and customize, Caramel Swirl elevates everyday desserts and snacks with a touch of elegance and irresistible flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
1/4 cup heavy cream
-
Pinch of salt
-
1 cup vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or pudding
directions
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until it turns amber in color, stirring occasionally.
-
Carefully add butter and stir until melted and combined.
-
Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring; allow the mixture to boil for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
-
Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt. Let caramel cool slightly.
-
Spoon vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pudding into serving dishes.
-
Drizzle caramel over the top and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the base.
-
Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.
Servings and timing
Makes about 4 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
-
Use salted caramel for a more intense flavor.
-
Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to caramel.
-
Mix caramel into baked goods like brownies or cakes for swirl effect.
-
Use dairy-free cream and butter for vegan caramel.
-
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a salted caramel finish.
storage/reheating
Store leftover caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stove before using.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, it works well for convenience.
How do I prevent caramel from burning?
Stir sugar carefully and watch the color closely to avoid burning.
Can I make caramel ahead?
Yes, store refrigerated and reheat before use.
Is caramel vegan?
Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives for vegan caramel.
How long does caramel last?
Up to 2 weeks refrigerated in a sealed container.
Can I freeze caramel?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
How do I make caramel thicker?
Cook longer or add more sugar; cool to thicken.
Can I use caramel in coffee or drinks?
Yes, caramel is great in lattes and cocktails.
Can I add spices to caramel?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder add flavor twists.
Is caramel high in sugar?
Yes, caramel is sweet; use in moderation.
Conclusion
Caramel Swirl is a rich, elegant addition to desserts and snacks, offering the perfect blend of creamy and sweet with a beautiful marbled look. Easy to make at home or use store-bought, it enhances your treats with irresistible buttery caramel flavor.
Print
Caramel Swirl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramel Swirl is a luscious and indulgent treat featuring smooth, rich caramel artfully blended into creamy bases like ice cream, yogurt, or desserts. The signature swirl adds a beautiful marbled effect and a deep, buttery sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt
1 cup vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or pudding
Instructions
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until it turns amber in color, stirring occasionally.
- Carefully add butter and stir until melted and combined.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring; allow the mixture to boil for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt. Let caramel cool slightly.
- Spoon vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pudding into serving dishes.
- Drizzle caramel over the top and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the base.
- Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use salted caramel for a more intense flavor.
- Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to caramel.
- Mix caramel into baked goods like brownies or cakes for swirl effect.
- Use dairy-free cream and butter for vegan caramel.
- Sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a salted caramel finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Cooking caramel and swirling
- Cuisine: Various
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Varies
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Varies
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: Varies
- Cholesterol: Varies