Butterscotch Sauce

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Cook, stirring, in a medium heavy saucepan over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is combined: 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter; ¼ cup water; 2 tablespoons light corn syrup

2. Step 2.

   Add and stir until dissolved: 1 cup sugar

3. Step 3.

   Increase the heat to medium-high and, without stirring, boil the mixture until it begins to color around the edges, 4 to 8 minutes. Continue to cook, stirring until the mixture turns light brown. Remove from the heat and, standing back, pour in: ½ cup heavy cream

4. Step 4.

   Stir until smooth. If the sauce remains lumpy, stir briefly over low heat. Remove from the heat and stir in: 1 teaspoon vanilla, whiskey, or Scotch; ¼ teaspoon salt

5. Step 5.

   Serve at once, or let cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 1 month. Reheat in a double boiler.