Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of homemade salted caramel ice cream. This decadent treat features a velvety base with the perfect balance of sweet caramel and a hint of salt, making it the ultimate dessert for any occasion. No ice cream maker required!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
For the Ice Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Make the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into a golden-brown liquid. Be careful not to burn it.
- Once the sugar is melted, carefully add the butter (it may bubble up). Stir until the butter is completely melted and combined.
- Gradually add the heavy cream, continuing to stir. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Combine Caramel with Ice Cream Base:
- Once the caramel has cooled to room temperature, stir it into the ice cream base until well combined.
- Freeze the Mixture:
- Pour the caramel ice cream mixture into a shallow container or a freezer-safe bowl.
- Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until firm. For the creamiest texture, stir every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours of freezing to break up ice crystals.
- Serve:
- Once the ice cream is fully set, scoop and serve! Optionally, drizzle with extra caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Notes
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an ice cream maker. Just churn the ice cream according to your machine’s instructions after combining the caramel and ice cream base.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt to your taste. Some people like a stronger salted flavor, while others prefer a lighter touch.
- Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for caramel)
- Category: Dessert, Ice Cream, Homemade
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food