Caramel sauce with a touch of black pepper over ice cream or cake adds a unique, appetizing touch that will leave everyone trying to guess the magic ingredient! 

• 1 cup granulated sugar 

• 1/4 cup water 

• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed 

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter 

• 1/4 tsp finely ground Sri Lankan black pepper 

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 

• Pinch of sea salt 

• Medium heavy-bottomed saucepan 

• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula 

• Measuring cups and spoons 

• Pepper grinder 

• Small microwave-safe bowl (for warming cream) 

• Heatproof jar or container for storage 

• Prepare Ingredients: Warm 1/2 cup heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 20–30 seconds until just warm (not hot). Set aside. Measure out all other ingredients for quick access. 

• Melt Sugar: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water over medium heat. Stir gently until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring. Let simmer for 8–10 minutes, swirling the pan occasionally, until the mixture turns a deep amber color. 

• Add Cream: Remove from heat and slowly pour in the warmed cream while stirring constantly (mixture will bubble vigorously). Be cautious to avoid splattering. 

• Add Butter and Seasonings: Stir in 2 tbsp butter, 1/4 tsp finely ground Sri Lankan black pepper, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth. 

• Cool: Let the caramel sauce cool slightly in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a heatproof jar or container. 

• Serve: Drizzle warm over ice cream, cake, or desserts, enjoying the unique, appetizing kick of black pepper. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; reheat gently before serving. 

• Use freshly ground Sri Lankan black pepper for its bold, earthy flavor; pre-ground pepper lacks intensity. 

• Warm the cream to prevent the caramel from seizing when added. 

• Adjust black pepper to taste, keeping it subtle to intrigue without overpowering. 

• Swirl, don’t stir, the sugar while it caramelizes to avoid crystallization. 

• If caramel hardens in the jar, warm gently in a microwave or hot water bath. 

Surprise your guests with this mysteriously appetizing caramel sauce!