Heat granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula

Sugar will form clumps and eventually melt into a thick brown, amber-colored liquid as you continue to stir. Be careful not to burn.

Once sugar is completely melted, immediately add the butter. Be careful in this step because the caramel will bubble rapidly when the butter is added.

Stir the butter into the caramel until it is completely melted, about 2-3 minutes

Slowly, drizzle in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Since the heavy cream is colder than the caramel, the mixture will rapidly bubble when added.

Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute. It will rise in the pan as it boils

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Allow to cool down before using

Cover the caramel tightly and store for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Warm the caramel up for a few seconds before using in a recipe.