1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup milk, evaporated milk, or coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add sugar and water to a saucepan
Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves
Let the mixture boil without stirring
Swirl the pan occasionally until it turns amber
Remove from heat
Add butter and stir until melted
Slowly whisk in milk
Stir in salt and vanilla
Return to low heat if needed to smooth the sauce
Cool slightly before using