Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream, warmed
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
  • 1 quart (946ml) high-quality vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Chopped nuts (optional)
  • Chocolate shavings (optional)
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine sugar and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over medium heat, without stirring, until a deep amber color is achieved.
  2. Carefully whisk in the warmed heavy cream. It will bubble vigorously! Immediately add the cubed butter and vanilla bean seeds.
  3. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
  5. Pour the caramel sauce into a heatproof container and let it cool completely. The vanilla bean pod can remain in the sauce during cooling to further infuse the flavor.
  6. Scoop softened vanilla ice cream into sundae glasses or bowls.
  7. Drizzle generously with the cooled vanilla bean caramel sauce. Add any desired toppings. Serve immediately.