Easy Butterscotch Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Butterscotch Sauce is rich, buttery, and irresistibly smooth—perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, cakes, or even stirring into your coffee. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this sauce comes together in minutes and delivers deep caramel flavor with a hint of salt and vanilla. It’s a go-to treat that instantly elevates any dessert.

ingredients

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

unsalted brownbuttersaltheavy creamlight brown sugarvanilla extract

directions

this Recipe

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.

Add light brown sugar and salt, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Simmer gently for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Let cool slightly before serving warm, or cool completely and store.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 5 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.

Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for a boozy version.

Use dark brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-rich flavor.

Make it salted butterscotch by increasing the salt slightly and using salted butter.

storage/reheating

Store in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring until smooth again.Do not freeze, as the texture may change.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Heavy cream gives the best richness, but half-and-half can work. Avoid regular milk for best consistency.

Why is my sauce grainy?

Be sure the sugar fully dissolves before adding cream and avoid overheating.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger saucepan to prevent bubbling over.

Is this the same as caramel?

No, butterscotch is made with brown sugar and has a deeper, buttery flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use vegan butter and full-fat coconut cream, but flavor and texture will vary.

What can I use this on?

Ice cream, cheesecake, bread pudding, pancakes, waffles, apples, or even coffee.

How long does it take to thicken?

Usually 4-5 minutes of simmering. It thickens more as it cools.

Can I make it salty?

Yes, a small pinch of flaky salt on top is delicious for contrast.

Can kids enjoy this?

Absolutely—it’s sweet, buttery, and non-alcoholic unless you choose to spike it.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Warm is best for pouring, but it’s also tasty spooned over chilled desserts.

Conclusion

Easy Butterscotch Sauce is a fast, foolproof way to add a luxurious touch to your favorite treats. With its velvety texture and bold, buttery sweetness, it’s a must-have recipe for any dessert lover. Whip up a batch, and discover just how versatile and indulgent homemade sauce can be.

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