Caramel Sauce

Combine sugar and water in medium, heavy-duty saucepan; cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a boil. Continue to boil, without stirring, for 10 to 14 minutes, tilting pan occasionally to keep color even until mixture turns a deep caramel color. Remove from heat.

Stir in sweetened condensed milk (mixture will foam up); do not scrape sides of pan. Add 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, one tablespoon at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in remaining butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Serve over ice cream or cake, if desired. Transfer to storage jar with lid. Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. Makes about 2 3/4 cups.