Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip features a smooth, buttery caramel sauce with a rich, sweet flavor and velvety texture, ideal for dipping warm, soft pretzels or fresh fruits.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Heatproof spatula
- Candy thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small serving bowls/containers
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Granulated sugar and water are essential for creating the caramel base, so measure them accurately to ensure proper consistency. Unsalted butter adds richness without overwhelming the flavor, while heavy cream contributes to the smooth, velvety texture of the dip. Vanilla extract and salt enhance the overall sweetness and balance the caramel's intensity. Use a candy thermometer to monitor temperature closely, preventing the caramel from burning or crystallizing. Your caramel dip should closely mimic the smooth, buttery quality found in Auntie Anne's signature Caramel Dip.
Instructions
- Add sugar and water to a saucepan.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Heat over medium without stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture boils.
- Continue cooking, swirling pan occasionally, until mixture turns deep amber.
- Remove from heat immediately.
- Add butter and whisk until melted and combined.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously (mixture will bubble).
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Let caramel cool slightly, then transfer to serving bowls/containers.
- Serve warm with pretzels or fruits.
Substitution
Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip delivers a luscious blend of rich, buttery caramel with a smooth and creamy finish, perfect for enhancing the flavor of warm pretzels or fresh fruits. If you don't have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of unsalted butter to maintain the dip's creamy texture. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature for optimal caramelization without burning. Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to prevent crystallization and achieve a glossy, smooth sauce. Once prepared, serve the dip in small containers and enjoy it fresh, as reheating may alter the texture.
Tips
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar mixture, aiming for a temperature around 340degF (170degC) to achieve the perfect deep amber caramel without burning it. When adding butter and heavy cream, pour them in slowly while whisking constantly to prevent the caramel from seizing or splattering. Make sure the heavy cream is at room temperature to avoid shocking the caramel mixture, which can cause it to harden unexpectedly. Your caramel dip will taste best when served warm, so gently reheat it if it thickens or cools too much before serving.
Nutritions
Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip contains a high concentration of sugar, with 1 cup of granulated sugar as the primary ingredient, which provides significant calories mainly from carbohydrates. The addition of 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of heavy cream contributes saturated fats, boosting the calorie density and richness of the sauce. You get a moderate amount of vitamin A and calcium from the dairy ingredients, though the dip is not a significant source of fiber or protein. This sweet and creamy dip is best enjoyed in moderation when paired with pretzels or fruits to complement your snack.
Storage
Store your Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its smooth, buttery texture and rich flavor. Before serving, gently warm the caramel in a saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish to restore its velvety consistency. Avoid repeated heating and cooling cycles to prevent graininess and preserve the dip's ideal dipping quality.
Variation or Alternatives
Try substituting half the granulated sugar with brown sugar to give your caramel dip a deeper, molasses-like flavor and a slightly darker color. You can experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the taste complexity. If you prefer a thicker dip, reduce the heavy cream to 1/3 cup and cook the caramel a bit longer until it reaches a firmer consistency on the candy thermometer (around 245degF or 118degC). Your caramel dip can also be reheated gently in a microwave or double boiler to maintain its velvety texture for multiple servings.
Allergies
Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip contains dairy ingredients such as unsalted butter and heavy cream, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The presence of vanilla extract and salt is less likely to cause allergies, but it's important to check for any added artificial ingredients or cross-contamination warnings. Always review the ingredient list carefully to ensure your dietary safety when enjoying this caramel sauce.
Why this recipe?
The Caramel Dip from Auntie Anne's is beloved for its rich, buttery flavor and perfectly smooth texture that complements the warm, soft pretzels. Its sweet yet slightly salty profile creates an irresistible taste experience that keeps customers coming back. Replicating this caramel dip at home allows you to enjoy a high-quality treat without the restaurant price, giving you control over ingredients and freshness. Your homemade version can match the creamy consistency and decadent taste that make Auntie Anne's Caramel Dip a favorite snack option.