We’ve fallen head over heels for salted caramel creamer, that irresistible blend of sweet and salty goodness that transforms ordinary coffee into a decadent treat. Originating from the clever fusion of classic caramel with a modern twist, it’s become a go-to favorite for coffee lovers everywhere.
This homemade version lets us capture those rich flavors right in our own kitchen, making it easier than ever to elevate our daily routines. Whether you’re stirring it into lattes or drizzling it over desserts, our salted caramel creamer recipe promises a simple yet luxurious upgrade.
Ingredients
To craft our homemade salted caramel creamer—a perfect way to elevate your coffee with its rich, buttery sweetness and subtle saltiness—we’ve compiled a straightforward list of ingredients. We’ll order them as they typically appear in the preparation process, with prep specifics noted for accuracy.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Use full-fat for a creamy base; chill it in the refrigerator beforehand to ensure smooth blending.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 ounces): This provides the sweet, velvety foundation; shake the can gently before opening to mix any settled contents.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Opt for light brown sugar for a milder caramel flavor; measure it packed to achieve the right sweetness level.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Cut into small cubes for even melting; ensure it’s at room temperature to blend seamlessly.
- Sea salt (1 teaspoon): This key ingredient balances the sweetness with its savory edge; adjust to taste if you prefer a bolder saltiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Pure vanilla works best for authentic flavor; add it last in the process for maximum aroma.
Instructions
We love transforming simple ingredients into our homemade salted caramel creamer, a rich and indulgent addition that elevates every cup of coffee with its perfect balance of sweet and salty notes. Now, let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to create this creamy delight.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, gather and prepare our ingredients to ensure everything blends smoothly. Start by measuring out 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (softened to room temperature for easy melting), 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar and butter, stirring them together lightly with a whisk to form a uniform mixture. This step sets the foundation for our salted caramel flavor, allowing the sweetness of the sugar to mingle with the butter’s richness.
Cook
We move to the stove to develop the deep, caramelized taste that makes our salted caramel creamer irresistible. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the sugar-butter mixture, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent burning, until it melts and bubbles—about 5 minutes. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, continuing to stir vigorously as the mixture thickens and turns a golden hue, which should take another 5 to 7 minutes. Add the sea salt and vanilla extract, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 more minutes, letting the aromas of warm caramel and vanilla fill the kitchen for a truly sensory experience.
Cool and Store
Once cooking is complete, we need to cool our salted caramel creamer properly to achieve the perfect creamy texture. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to release heat and prevent a skin from forming. Once cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight glass jar or bottle. For storage, refrigerate the creamer for up to 2 weeks, where it will thicken further and develop even more flavorful notes, ready to enhance your morning coffee or desserts.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our homemade salted caramel creamer seamlessly, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment that ensure precise measurements, even heating, and safe storage. These items build directly on the ingredients and steps we’ve outlined, allowing us to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors without complications.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools we recommend:
- Saucepan: A medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan is crucial for melting and simmering the mixture evenly. We prefer one with a capacity of at least 2 quarts to prevent overflow during cooking, as it helps distribute heat uniformly and avoids scorching the brown sugar and butter.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: Use a sturdy whisk for blending ingredients smoothly or a wooden spoon for stirring. We find a whisk particularly effective for incorporating the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, ensuring no lumps form and the creamer develops a silky texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so we always use a set of standard measuring cups and spoons. For instance, this includes a 1-cup measure for liquids like heavy cream and a tablespoon for precise additions of sea salt and vanilla extract.
- Stove or Heat Source: A reliable gas or electric stove set to medium heat works best for controlled cooking. We advise using one with adjustable burners to maintain the simmer without overcooking, which is vital for achieving the golden color and rich flavors in our salted caramel creamer.
- Airtight Container: After cooling, store the creamer in a glass or plastic airtight container with a tight-sealing lid. We recommend one that holds at least 1 pint to keep the creamer fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, as mentioned in our preparation steps.
| Tool | Purpose | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Saucepan | Even heating and mixing | Medium-sized, heavy-bottomed, 2-quart minimum |
| Whisk or Wooden Spoon | Blending and stirring | Sturdy whisk for smooth texture |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Standard set for accuracy |
| Stove | Controlled cooking | Gas or electric with adjustable heat |
| Airtight Container | Safe storage | Glass or plastic, 1-pint capacity |
Make-Ahead and Storage
One of the beauties of our homemade salted caramel creamer is how effortlessly it lends itself to make-ahead preparation, allowing us to whip up a batch on the weekend and enjoy rich, velvety flavors all week long. By planning ahead, we ensure that every cup of coffee bursts with that perfect sweet-salty harmony, elevating our daily routines without the rush.
Making Ahead
To make our salted caramel creamer ahead of time, we start right after cooking. Once the mixture has reached its golden, aromatic perfection, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent condensation in the storage container, which could dilute the luscious caramel notes. After cooling, transfer the creamer to an airtight container—we recommend a glass jar with a tight-sealing lid for optimal freshness and to preserve that irresistible creamy texture.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage keeps our salted caramel creamer at its best, maintaining its smooth consistency and bold flavors for as long as possible. Always refrigerate the creamer immediately after cooling to slow down any bacterial growth and lock in the decadent taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Store in an airtight container to prevent absorption of odors; shake well before use to recombine any separated elements. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Pour into ice cube trays for easy portioning; thaw in the fridge overnight and stir to restore the silky texture—avoid microwaving to prevent curdling. |
For the best results, we advise checking for signs of spoilage before each use, such as off odors or unusual separation. If we’re storing larger batches, label the container with the date to track freshness, ensuring our creamer remains a reliable staple for enhancing coffee or drizzling over desserts. Always use clean, dry utensils when scooping to avoid introducing contaminants that could shorten its shelf life.
Conclusion
We’ve shared how easy it is to whip up this salted caramel creamer at home
and it’s become a favorite in our routine for elevating everyday coffee.
It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a way to add that personal touch to our mornings
and spark joy in simple pleasures. Give it a try and savor the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is salted caramel creamer?
Salted caramel creamer is a delicious mix of sweet and salty flavors that enhances coffee or desserts. It’s a homemade version using ingredients like heavy cream, brown sugar, and sea salt to create a rich, creamy addition to your daily routine.
How do you make homemade salted caramel creamer?
To make it, combine brown sugar and butter in a saucepan, melt over medium heat, then add heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until thickened and golden, cool, and store in an airtight container. The whole process takes about 15-20 minutes.
What ingredients are needed for salted caramel creamer?
You’ll need heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, unsalted butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Use full-fat cream for creaminess, packed brown sugar for sweetness, and room-temperature butter for easy blending.
How long does homemade salted caramel creamer last?
It can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Always check for spoilage like off smells or separation before use, and use clean utensils to keep it fresh.
Can you freeze salted caramel creamer?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Portion it into smaller containers for easy thawing, then refrigerate overnight to restore its smooth texture before adding to coffee or desserts.
What tools are required to make salted caramel creamer?
You’ll need a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heating, a whisk or wooden spoon for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a stove for controlled cooking, and an airtight container for storage.
Is salted caramel creamer easy to prepare?
Absolutely, it’s a simple recipe that takes just a few steps and about 20 minutes. With basic ingredients and tools, even beginners can whip up a batch to elevate their coffee routine.