Homemade Salted Caramel Ice Cream
If you want a dessert that’s sweet, salty, creamy, and bursting with flavour, this homemade salted caramel ice cream is just what you need. This recipe combines the decadence of salted caramel with the creamy withiness of homemade ice cream, and the beauty of it? You can make it at home without an ice cream maker.
This fool proof recipe is great for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something decadent. Here is everything you need to know to make your own homemade salted caramel ice cream.
What Is Special About Homemade Salted Caramel Ice Cream?
Salted caramel ice cream is the best of both worlds. A hit of sea salt accents the buttery sweetness of the caramel, creating a flavor balance that’s utterly irresistible. It is rich, creamy, perfectly customizable, and the greatest dessert for any occasion.
Keep reading for everything you need to know — from ingredients and method to serving ideas and FAQs.
- Total Time: 7.5 hours (Approximately) including (Freezing): 6-8 hours
- Yield: 300–350 1x
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp sea salt
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (well-chilled)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¾ of the salted caramel (reserve ¼ for swirling!)
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra sea salt flakes for sprinkling
- Caramel drizzle
- Crushed nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
Step one: Make the salted caramel
- Melt the Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add in the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves into a smooth golden syrup (5-6 minutes).
- Add the Butter: Add butter carefully and it will hiss initially. Mix to combine, then stir until fully incorporated.
- Add the Cream: Gradually drizzle in heavy cream while whisking constantly. This mixture will bubble vigorously—this is normal!
- Season and Cool:Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla extract and the sea salt and stir well. Let the caramel cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- Whip the Cream: With a hand or stand mixer, whip the chilled heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Fold in Sweetened Condensed Milk: Using a spatula, gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract just until incorporated, being mindful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Add the Caramel: Save about a ¼ of the caramel for swirling and fold the rest into the base.
Step 3: Assemble and Freeze
- Transfer to a container: Pour the ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container or loaf pan.
- Swirl in the Reserved Caramel: Pour the reserved caramel on top, then take a knife or skewer and swirl it around.
- Chill: Wrap in plastic or cover with a lid and freeze for 6-8 hours or until solid.
Voila — your salted caramel ice cream is homemade and ready to scoop and indulge!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Ice Cream.
Simple Serving Ideas:
- Scoop into waffle cones or bowls with additional drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of salt.
- Serve with brownies, apple pie or a warm crumble for the ultimate indulgent dessert.
- Serve as a topping for pancakes, waffles or crepes.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is that it is flexible. Whether you want to add a swirl of coffee, a crumbly pretzel topping or fold in some chocolate chunks, the sky’s the limit. Feel free to play, get creative and customize this recipe to your liking!
But when you make your own salted caramel ice cream, you’re not only enjoying a wonderful dessert: You’re concocting a little bit of magic at home
Notes
Pro Tip: For ultra-smooth scoops, leave ice cream out of the freezer for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (Caramel)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Churn
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use full-fat coconut cream in place of heavy cream, plant-based butter instead of butter, and vegan condensed milk in place of sweetened condensed milk.
2. How Long Does It Last in the Freezer?
Salted caramel ice cream homemade is best within 2 weeks. Make sure it’s tightly covered so it doesn’t get freezer burn.
3. Could I Use Cartons of Caramel Sauce?
If you’re pressed for time, store-bought caramel will suffice. Just make sure it’s a good quality and salted for flavor.
4. What Other Flavors Go Well with This Ice Cream?
Salted caramel works well with chocolate, coffee or even fruity flavors like raspberry or apple.
5. Do I Need Special Equipment?
Nope! This no-churn recipe means you don’t even need an ice cream maker. Could be using a stand or a hand mixer.