Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar granulated
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons butter unsalted, plus 2 t
  • 2 cups flour, all-purpose plus 1 t
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 pound cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, light packed
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons dark rum
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

  • Preheat the oven to 325F (160C).
  • To prepare the caramel flavoring, combine the granulated sugar and lemon juice in a 2 1/2-qt saucepan and stir with a whisk to combine (the sugar will resemble moist sand).
  • Caramelize the sugar for 5 to 6 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to break up any lumps (the sugar will first turn clear as it liquefies, then brown as it caramelizes).
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully add the heavy cream; stir to combine (the mixture will steam and boil rapidly as the cream is added).
  • Transfer the caramel to a stainless steel bowl and allow to cool to room temperature.
  • Continued >>>