Salted Whiskey Caramel Recipe: Bold, Buttery, and Perfect for Drizzling

If you want to add a grown-up twist to your desserts or drinks, this Salted Whiskey Caramel recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, smooth, and made with just a handful of ingredients, this sauce is the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and boozy.

At Tasty Plated, Chef Rachael transforms everyday recipes into unforgettable moments. Her version of salted whiskey caramel is silky, bold, and surprisingly easy to make. Drizzle it over brownies, pour it on ice cream, stir it into lattes, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful. This sauce is addictive in the best way.

 

• What Is Salted Whiskey Caramel?

This sauce starts with traditional caramel. Sugar is melted and combined with butter and cream to form a thick, glossy base. Then, whiskey is added for depth and warmth. Finally, sea salt is stirred in to enhance the balance between sweet and savoury.

 

Compared to classic caramel, this version:

• Has a richer, smokier flavour

• Finishes with a gentle whiskey bite

• Pairs well with desserts and even savoury dishes

It is essentially salted caramel for adults, and once you taste it, you’ll want to use it on everything.

 

• Why Whiskey and Salt Work So Well Together

Whiskey adds complexity. Salt brings contrast. When combined with the buttery sweetness of caramel, you get a flavour that’s balanced, smooth, and completely satisfying.

 

Here’s why it works:

• Salt heightens sweetness without overpowering

• Whiskey introduces warm notes like oak, vanilla, and spice

• The cream and butter smooth everything out

Even if you’re not usually a whiskey fan, in this caramel, it blends beautifully with the other flavours.

 

• Ingredients You’ll Need

This Salted Whiskey Caramel recipe comes together with just six simple ingredients. For best results, use high-quality butter, real cream, and a whiskey you enjoy sipping.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes

• ½ cup heavy cream, at room temperature

• ¼ cup whiskey (bourbon, rye, or Irish work well)

• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Optional: Flaky sea salt for topping

 

• How to Make Salted Whiskey Caramel Step-by-Step

Caramel is all about timing and temperature. Follow these steps closely for smooth, silky results every time.

 

Instructions:

 

1. Melt the sugar
Add the sugar to a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium and stir constantly. It will clump, then slowly melt into a golden liquid.

2. Add the butter
Once fully melted, add butter cubes and whisk until fully combined. The mixture will bubble and foam.

3. Stir in cream
Remove from heat, then slowly add the cream. It may bubble again. Whisk until the sauce is smooth.

4. Add whiskey and salt
Stir in the whiskey, salt, and vanilla if using. Return to low heat for 1 minute to thicken slightly.

5. Cool and store
Let the caramel cool for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer to a glass jar. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

 

• Chef Rachael’s Caramel Crafting Secrets at Tasty Plated

Chef Rachael makes this caramel recipe fool proof with a few essential techniques she uses at Tasty Plated. Her goal is a sauce that is smooth, deeply flavoured, and beautifully balanced.

 

Chef Rachael’s Tips:

• Always use room temperature cream to avoid curdling

• Add whiskey off the heat to preserve aroma and flavour

• Stir with a silicone whisk to avoid crystallization

• Use a candy thermometer if needed. Stop at 350°F for the perfect caramelization

• Finish with flaky salt just before serving for texture and pop

“I love how this caramel hits every note. It’s silky, it’s salty, and the whiskey gives it just the right amount of grown-up flavour.”
— Chef Rachael

 

• Table: Salted Whiskey vs Classic vs Bourbon Caramel

Salted whiskey caramel stands out for its flavour complexity and versatility, especially in both sweet and savoury recipes.

 

• How to Use Salted Whiskey Caramel in Recipes

The beauty of this sauce is how many ways you can use it. It adds a luxe finishing touch to just about everything.

 

Sweet Ideas:

• Drizzle over ice cream or gelato

• Pour on chocolate cake, brownies, or apple pie

• Use as a filling for cupcakes or doughnuts

• Swirl into coffee, hot cocoa, or espresso martinis

Savoury Ideas:

• Serve with aged cheeses or charcuterie

• Pair with grilled peaches or baked figs

• Use in a glaze for pork or roasted vegetables

 

• FAQs About Salted Whiskey Caramel Recipe

 

1. Can I use any whiskey?
Yes. Choose a whiskey with a flavour you enjoy. Bourbon adds sweetness, rye brings spice, and Irish whiskey is smooth.

2. Does the alcohol cook off?
Some of it evaporates, but a trace remains. It’s not strong, but the flavour stays.

3. How long will it last in the fridge?
Stored in a sealed jar, it lasts up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before serving.

4. Can I freeze the caramel?
Yes. Freeze in small jars or silicone molds and thaw in the fridge overnight.

5. Can I make it without dairy?
Yes. Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and vegan butter as a substitute.

6. Why did my caramel crystallize?
This happens if the sugar is stirred too early or the pan wasn’t clean. Be sure to stir only when it’s fully melted.

 

• Final Drizzle: A Sauce That’s Sweet, Grown-Up, and Addictive

 

This Salted Whiskey Caramel recipe offers the perfect blend of indulgence and elegance. Whether you’re making dessert for guests or treating yourself to a midnight spoonful, this sauce brings warmth and richness to every bite.

With Chef Rachael’s tested method and the Tasty Plated commitment to bold, clean flavours, this caramel is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So grab your saucepan, pour the whiskey, and let the magic happen. Just be warned, once you make this, you might never go back to store-bought.