Description
A modern, dairy-free twist on classic caramel. This Viral Olive Oil Caramel is silky, rich, and perfectly balanced with deep golden sweetness and the smooth nuttiness of extra virgin olive oil. Quick to make, versatile, and elegant—ideal for drizzling over desserts, swirling into drinks, or using as a gourmet glaze.
Ingredients
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60 ml) water
½ cup (120 ml) high-quality extra virgin olive oil
½ cup (120 ml) coconut cream or heavy cream (optional for richness)
½ teaspoon sea salt (fine or flaky)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Ingredient Notes:
Use a buttery, mild olive oil such as Arbequina or Koroneiki for the best texture and flavor. White granulated sugar ensures even caramelization, while coconut cream gives a dairy-free creamy consistency.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare
Measure all ingredients before starting. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.
Step 2: Melt Sugar
Combine 1 cup sugar and ¼ cup water in the pan.
Heat over medium heat, stirring gently until dissolved.
Stop stirring once clear, and let it cook until deep amber (8–10 minutes).
Step 3: Add Olive Oil
Remove from heat. Slowly whisk in ½ cup olive oil—the mixture will bubble.
Stir until smooth and emulsified.
Step 4: Add Cream (Optional)
If desired, add ½ cup coconut cream or heavy cream slowly while whisking.
Cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes until glossy.
Step 5: Finish
Stir in vanilla and salt. Cool for 10–15 minutes, then store in a glass jar.
The caramel thickens slightly as it cools.
Notes
Use a candy thermometer to monitor temperature (320–340°F / 160–170°C).
Avoid stirring after sugar dissolves—swirl the pan instead.
For salted caramel, add extra flaky sea salt after cooling.
If caramel hardens after refrigeration, reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Modern / Mediterranean Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20 g)
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: viral olive oil caramel, dairy-free caramel, olive oil dessert sauce, easy caramel recipe