Have a heatproof bowl or jar ready. Measure ingredients and keep a wooden spoon or heatproof silicone spatula nearby. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat.

Dissolve sugar

Combine 0.75 cups granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water in the saucepan over medium heat. Stir just to combine, then stop stirring and allow the sugar to come to a simmer so it melts evenly.

Caramelize

Let the sugar syrup simmer, gently swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a deep amber color (about 6–9 minutes). Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Add butter carefully

Remove the pan from heat and immediately add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, whisking or stirring until melted and incorporated. The mixture will bubble vigorously; stand back and stir until smooth.

Incorporate cream

Slowly pour in 0.5 cup heavy cream while whisking. The mixture will bubble; continue whisking until smooth and combined.

Season and finish

Stir in 1 teaspoon fine sea salt and 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract. Taste and add a tiny pinch more salt if you prefer a stronger salted contrast. Allow the sauce to cool slightly for 10–15 minutes; it will thicken as it cools. Transfer to a jar if desired.

Latte

Brew espresso

Brew 2 shots (about 2 ounces) of fresh espresso. If you don't have an espresso machine, make 3/4 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 concentrated shots from an Aeropress.

Sweeten espresso

Place 2 tablespoons of the prepared salted caramel sauce in the serving mug. Pour the hot espresso over the caramel and stir until the caramel is fully dissolved into the espresso.

Steam or heat milk

Steam 10 ounces whole milk to about 150–155°F (65–68°C) using a steam wand, creating microfoam. If you don't have a steam wand, heat the milk on the stovetop until steaming (do not boil) and then froth vigorously with a handheld frother or by whisking to create foam.

Combine

Pour the steamed milk over the espresso-carameI mixture, holding back foam with a spoon, then spooning foam on top. Stir gently if needed to meld flavors.

Garnish and serve

Top with an optional 2 tablespoons whipped cream, drizzle 1 tablespoon additional caramel sauce, and finish with a pinch of coarse sea salt. Serve immediately.