Caramel Sauce

• Ready In: 24 mins
• Yields: 1 c.

Ingredients

• 1⁄4 cup  chopped pecans or 1⁄4 cup walnuts (optional)
• 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar
• 1⁄3 cup water
• 1⁄3 cup  double-strength brewed coffee or 2  teaspoons instant coffee, dissolved in 1/3 c. hot water
• 1  tablespoon butter
• 1⁄4 cup  evaporated skim milk
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

1. If using nuts, toast them in a small dry skillet over low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
3. In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, combine sugar and water.
4. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar.
5. Once it starts boiling, cook without stirring until syrup turns amber, 5 to 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and carefully pour in coffee.
7. (Stand back, as caramel may sputter).
8. Let stand for 2 minutes.
9. Return to low heat and whisk until caramel has dissolved.
10. Remove from heat.
11. Swirl butter into caramel mixture.
12. Gradually whisk in milk.
13. Stir in vanilla and toasted nuts, if using, let cool.
14. (The sauce will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week).