This Ina Garten Fleur de Sel Caramel recipe is smooth and buttery, which uses heavy cream and flaky sea salt. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 15 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Fleur de Sel Caramel Ingredients
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup water
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons fleur de sel (or substitute flaky sea salt)
How To Make Ina Garten Fleur de Sel Caramel
- Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup: In a 3-quart saucepan, mix the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir gently to combine without splashing the sides.
- Boil until amber: Cook over medium-high heat without stirring. Swirl the pan occasionally and watch for a deep golden amber color, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add cream and butter: Turn off the heat and carefully pour in the heavy cream and butter. The mixture will bubble up—stir until smooth.
- Add vanilla and salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and fleur de sel until fully blended.
- Cool and store: Let the caramel cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a jar or heatproof container. Cool completely before sealing. Store at room temp for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Recipe Tips
-
Can I use table salt instead of fleur de sel?
Yes, but reduce the amount slightly since table salt is more concentrated. -
How to avoid crystalized caramel:
Don’t stir once the sugar mixture starts boiling—just swirl the pan gently. -
Can I make this without corn syrup?
You can try honey or maple syrup, but results may vary in texture. -
How to reheat refrigerated caramel:
Microwave in 10–15 second intervals or warm gently on the stove. -
Is this caramel good for gifting?
Yes, pour into small jars and tie with ribbon for a homemade treat.
What To Serve With Fleur de Sel Caramel
Use this rich caramel sauce over:
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- Apple pie or tarts
- Brownies or blondies
- Pancakes or waffles
- Dipped apples or pretzels
How To Store Fleur de Sel Caramel
At Room Temperature:
Store in a sealed container for up to 1 day.
Refrigerate:
Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Warm before serving for the best consistency.
Freeze (optional):
Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Fleur de Sel Caramel Nutrition Facts
(Estimated per tablespoon)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 13g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 90mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I use this caramel for caramel apples?
Yes, let it cool slightly to thicken before dipping apples.
Why did my caramel burn?
It likely cooked too long or the heat was too high—watch closely after it turns golden.
Can I make it vegan?
Try using coconut cream and vegan butter, though texture may differ slightly.
How do I thicken the caramel more?
Simmer slightly longer or reduce the cream slightly in future batches.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe
- Ina Garten Feta Watermelon Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Rum Raisin Rice Pudding Recipe
Ina Garten Fleur de Sel Caramel Recipe
Course: DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy10-12
servings5
minutes10
minutes120
kcalA rich and velvety homemade caramel sauce finished with vanilla and flaky sea salt—perfect for drizzling, dipping, or gifting.
Ingredients
-
1½ cups sugar
-
⅓ cup water
-
½ cup light corn syrup
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
5 tbsp butter
-
½ tsp vanilla extract
-
1½ tsp fleur de sel (or flaky sea salt)
Directions
- Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a saucepan. Stir gently.
- Boil without stirring until deep amber, about 8–10 minutes.
- Turn off heat. Carefully add cream and butter—stir until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla and fleur de sel. Mix well.
- Cool 10 minutes, transfer to jar. Store at room temp or refrigerate.
