Salted Butter Caramel Ice Cream

Absolutely! Here's a detailed and indulgent recipe for **Salted Butter Caramel Ice Cream**, crafted to exceed 600 words and provide step-by-step guidance to ensure rich, creamy results every time.

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## 🍨 Salted Butter Caramel Ice Cream

**A Luxuriously Silky Ice Cream Infused with Deep Caramel Flavor and a Hint of Sea Salt**

Salted butter caramel ice cream is a decadent, French-inspired treat that balances sweet and savory in perfect harmony. With deep caramel notes, buttery richness, and a creamy custard base, this ice cream is as sophisticated as it is comforting. Ideal for any occasion, it can stand alone or pair beautifully with tarts, pies, or brownies.

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### 📋 Ingredients

#### For the Caramel Base:

* 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

* 6 tbsp (85 g) salted butter, cut into cubes

* 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) heavy cream

* ½ tsp flaky sea salt or kosher salt

#### For the Custard:

* 1 ¾ cups (420 ml) whole milk

* 4 large egg yolks

* 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

* Optional: Extra pinch of salt for a bolder flavor

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### 🥄 Equipment

* Heavy-bottomed saucepan

* Whisk and rubber spatula

* Mixing bowls

* Fine-mesh strainer

* Ice cream maker

* Thermometer (optional but helpful)

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### 🍳 Instructions

#### Step 1: Make the Caramel

1. **Dry Method Caramel**: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, sprinkle in the sugar in an even layer. Allow it to melt undisturbed.

2. As it starts to melt, use a spatula to gently stir and distribute the sugar. Continue until it turns a rich amber color—be careful not to let it burn.

3. **Add Butter**: Once fully melted and deep golden, add the butter cubes. Stir constantly as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

4. **Incorporate Cream**: Carefully pour in the cream while whisking. The mixture may seize briefly—keep stirring over low heat until smooth and combined.

5. Add the sea salt and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside.

#### Step 2: Make the Custard

1. In a separate medium saucepan, heat the milk until just warm (do not boil).

2. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until slightly thickened.

3. **Temper the Eggs**: Slowly pour the warm milk into the yolks while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling.

4. Pour the egg-milk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula.

5. Heat until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (around 170–175°F or 77–80°C if using a thermometer).

#### Step 3: Combine and Chill

1. Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into the caramel mixture. Stir well to combine.

2. Add the vanilla extract and stir again. Taste the base and adjust with a pinch more salt if desired.

3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least **4 hours or overnight**. The colder the base, the smoother the churn.

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### 🧊 Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

1. Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 20–25 minutes.

2. Once churned to a soft-serve consistency, transfer to an airtight container.

#### Optional: Add Caramel Swirl

* If you want caramel ribbons throughout, layer the churned ice cream with spoonfuls of room temperature caramel sauce as you scoop it into the container.

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### ❄️ Freeze and Serve

1. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.

2. Before serving, let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for easier scooping.

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### 🍽 Serving Suggestions

* Serve on its own in bowls or cones.

* Pair with warm apple pie, chocolate cake, or banana bread.

* Drizzle with extra caramel sauce or sprinkle with sea salt flakes for extra decadence.

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### 💡 Tips for Best Results

* **Use high-quality butter** for the best flavor. European-style butters add an even deeper richness.

* **Don’t rush the caramel**—watch it closely and stir carefully.

* **Let the base chill thoroughly** to prevent icy texture when churning.

* **Sea salt matters**: Use a flaky sea salt like Maldon for a more delicate, complex saltiness.

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### 🧁 Variation Ideas

* Add toasted pecans or candied walnuts for a nutty crunch.

* Infuse the milk with a split vanilla bean or cinnamon stick before combining with yolks.

* Use browned butter for even deeper, nuttier undertones.

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This salted butter caramel ice cream delivers an artisan dessert experience right from your kitchen. Creamy, buttery, and just salty enough—it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet and comforting all at once.

Would you like a printable recipe card or a variation with bourbon or chocolate chunks?