hot fudge sundaes

the goods:

hot fudge:

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

pinch of salt

caramel:

1/2 cup light-brown sugar

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

pinch of salt

whipped cream:

1 cup cold heavy cream

2 tablespoons sugar

vanilla ice cream

Fudge: In a small saucepan, bring sugar and cream to a boil over medium-high. Cook, stirring often, until sugar dissolves, 2 minutes. Add butter and chocolate; stir until chocolate melts and sauce is smooth, 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla and salt.

Caramel: In a small saucepan, bring sugar, butter, and cream to a boil over medium-high. Cook, stirring until butter melts and mixture is smooth. Reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla and salt.

Whipped cream: Combine heavy cream and sugar and whisk until soft peaks form.

Refrigerate any leftover sauce and reheat gently to serve.