Easy Homemade Caramel

Step 1 -Add the sugar and the water to a 3-quart heavy-bottomed saucepan and stir so it sits in a flat, even layer.

Step 2 -Warm the pot over medium heat and cook until the sugar dissolves, turns clear, and starts to bubble, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3 -Allow the caramel mixture to bubble, swirling the saucepan occasionally and brushing down the sides of the pan as needed to prevent crystallization, until it thickens and turns a deep honey-like color, about 8-12 minutes. Do not stir and be sure it does not burn. It is okay for sugar clumps to form.

Step 4 -Carefully add the butter to the caramel mixture and whisk until it has completely melted. Use caution as it will rapidly bubble.

Step 5 -Transfer the saucepan from the heat, then slowly pour the heavy cream into the caramel mixture, whisking continuously, until all of the cream has been incorporated.

Step 6 -Whisk the vanilla and the salt into the caramel mixture.

Step 7 -Let the caramel cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Step 8 -Pour the caramel into a lidded glass jar to cool completely. It will thicken as it cools.

Step 9 -Serve.