Easy Butterscotch Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Butterscotch Sauce is a rich, buttery dessert topping that comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples. It has a deep caramel flavor with a hint of salt and vanilla, making it perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, or even stirring into your coffee. This homemade version is much more flavorful than store-bought and can be made in under 10 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butterbrown sugarsaltheavy creamvanilla extract

directions

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add the brown sugar and salt, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Carefully pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Let the sauce cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of sauce.Preparation time: 2 minutesCooking time: 5-6 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 12-13 minutes

Variations

Use dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

Add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult twist.

Mix in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced version.

Make it dairy-free by using vegan butter and coconut cream.

storage/reheating

Store butterscotch sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring until smooth and warm.

FAQs

What’s the difference between caramel and butterscotch?

Caramel is made with white sugar, while butterscotch uses brown sugar, giving it a richer, more molasses-like flavor.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to balance the taste.

Why is my sauce grainy?

Graininess can happen if the sugar doesn’t fully dissolve—make sure to stir constantly and heat gently.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

Is butterscotch sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this sauce is naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze butterscotch sauce?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just keep an eye on cooking time and stir well to avoid burning.

How can I make it thicker?

Simmer the sauce a few minutes longer to reduce and thicken, or chill it slightly before serving.

Can I use light cream?

Yes, though the flavor and texture will be slightly lighter.

Is this safe for kids?

Yes, it contains no alcohol and is safe for children to enjoy.

Conclusion

Easy Butterscotch Sauce is a decadent and versatile addition to your dessert toolkit. With its smooth texture and rich, buttery flavor, it can elevate everything from everyday snacks to special occasion treats. Once you see how simple it is to make at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.

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