14 cups water, 12 cups heavy cream, 1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
a pinch of salt (to counterbalance the sweetness)
How to Make a 6-Minute Caramel
Start Simple: Combine the granulated sugar and water in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Make sure the sugar is evenly hydrated.
Warm it up:
- Preheat the pan to medium-high.
- Allow the sugar to completely dissolve without stirring.
- Refrain from going, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize.
Keep an eye on the change: Once the sugar has dissolved, keep an eye on the syrup. After a minute or two, it will begin to bubble. As the water evaporates, the bubbles grow more prominent and minor.
Look for the Golden Color: After 4-5 minutes, the syrup will turn a lovely caramel hue. You want to get to the caramel stage.
Calm it down: Remove from the heat immediately. Pour in the heavy cream slowly while whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so proceed with caution.
Add Flavors: Whisk in the vanilla extract and a touch of salt until the caramel is smooth and velvety.
Serve and dazzle: Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, or your favorite dessert. Enjoy the delicious flavor of your 6-minute caramel!
Expert Advice:
Pan Selection Is Important: A light-colored pan might make the color change easier to see.
First and foremost, safety: Caramel burns quickly and gets very hot. Always proceed with caution.
Crystallization Woes: Brush the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush if you observe sugar crystallizing.
The Keys to Perfect 6-Minute Caramel:
The Sugar-Water Ratio: The sugar-water ratio is critical. Too much water will dilute the caramel, while too little will cause it to burn.
Constant Vigilance: It is critical to keep a cautious eye. The change from clear syrup to amber caramel can happen quickly.
Temperature Control: Make sure your burner stays at a consistent medium-high temperature. Too hot and it will burn; too low and it will not caramelize in 6 minutes.
Suggestions for Serving:
Drizzle over waffles, pancakes, or French toast, and top with fresh berries for a decadent breakfast.
Dessert Time: Add a caramel layer to brownies, cheesecakes, or puddings to enhance the flavor.
Drink Enhancer: Add a spoonful to your coffee or hot chocolate for a caramel twist.
