Rich Caramel Sauce

Directions

1. 1
   Cook first 3 ingredients in a Dutch oven over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until butter melts; remove mixture from heat.
2. 2
   Bring sugar, 1/2 cup water, and lemon juice to a boil in a Dutch oven over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. 3
   Reduce heat to medium-high, and boil, stirring occasionally, 8 minutes or until mixture begins to brown.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring, 5 minutes or until mixture is caramel colored.
5. 5
   Pour sugar mixture gradually into whipping cream mixture. Remove from heat; let stand 1 minute.
6. 6
   Whisk until smooth.
7. 7
   Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until a candy thermometer registers 230° (thread stage); cool.
8. 8
   Makes 2 1/2 cups sauce.