Dulce de Leche Recipe (with Video)

Dulce de Leche Recipe: Dulce de Leche is a delicious, creamy caramel-like spread made by slowly heating sweetened milk until it thickens and turns golden brown. This rich treat, originally from Latin America, is widely enjoyed worldwide and is often used as a filling, topping, or ingredient in desserts. Whether drizzled over pancakes, spread on toast, or baked into pastries, its irresistible sweetness makes it a favorite for many.

Want to make your own Dulce de Leche at home? Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a perfect batch ready to enjoy!

Ingredients Required

Making Dulce de Leche requires only a few simple ingredients, but the result is incredibly rich and flavorful.

Basic Ingredients:

• Milk: 1 liter of whole milk (for a traditional method)
• Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar
• Baking soda: ¼ teaspoon (helps prevent curdling)
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (for extra flavor)

Optional Flavor Enhancers:

• Cinnamon stick: Adds a warm, spiced aroma
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness
• Butter: For a smoother texture

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s explore the different ways to make Dulce de Leche.

Different Methods to Make Dulce de Leche

There are several ways to make Dulce de Leche, depending on the tools you have and how much time you can dedicate.

Traditional Stovetop Method

This is the most authentic way to make Dulce de Leche and requires constant stirring but delivers the richest flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the milk and sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the milk and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add baking soda: Once the mixture is warm, add the baking soda and stir. This prevents the milk from curdling.
3. Simmer and stir: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir frequently. The mixture will gradually darken in color and thicken.
4. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours: Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning. As the mixture thickens, stir more frequently.
5. Check the consistency: When it reaches a golden-brown color and thick, caramel-like texture, remove it from heat.
6. Cool and store: Let it cool slightly before transferring it to a jar.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Can Method

A popular shortcut that simplifies the process is using canned sweetened condensed milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the label: Take the label off a can of sweetened condensed milk.
2. Submerge in water: Place the unopened can in a large pot and cover it with water. Ensure it’s fully submerged.
3. Simmer: Let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours (2 hours for a lighter color, 3 hours for a darker, richer flavor).
4. Cool before opening: Remove the can from the water and allow it to cool completely before opening.

Safety Tip: Always keep the can fully submerged in water to prevent bursting.

Oven-Baked Method

This is another hands-off approach that gives great results.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pour sweetened condensed milk into a baking dish.
3. Cover with foil and place in a water bath.
4. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally.
5. Stir and cool before using.

Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker Method

For a quicker alternative, use a pressure cooker.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Place a sealed can of sweetened condensed milk in the Instant Pot.
2. Add water until the can is fully covered.
3. Cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally, then cool before opening.

How to Store Dulce de Leche

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before use.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a microwave or over low heat.

Ways to Use Dulce de Leche

• Spread on toast or crackers
• Drizzle over pancakes or waffles
• Fill cakes, cookies, or pastries
• Mix into coffee, milkshakes, or yogurt

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

• Too thick? Add a small amount of warm milk and stir.
• Too runny? Cook a little longer until it thickens.
• Crystallized? Stir in a teaspoon of corn syrup to smooth it out.

FAQs about Dulce de Leche Recipe

What is dulce de leche?

Dulce de leche is a creamy, caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar, cooked slowly until it achieves a rich, sweet, and velvety texture. Popular in Latin America, it’s used in various desserts or simply enjoyed on its own.

How do you make dulce de leche?

To make dulce de leche, combine milk and sugar in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color. This process can take about 1 to 2 hours. For a quicker method, you can also cook a closed can of sweetened condensed milk in boiling water for 2 to 3 hours.

Is there a faster way to make dulce de leche?

Yes! The quickest method involves simmering a sealed can of sweetened condensed milk in water for about 2 to 3 hours. Ensure the can is always submerged in water to prevent bursting. After cooling, you’ll have perfectly smooth dulce de leche.

Can I make dulce de leche in a microwave?

Indeed, you can! Pour sweetened condensed milk into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and vent it. Microwave on medium power for 2 minutes at a time, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired consistency and color. This usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes.

What are some common uses for dulce de leche?

Dulce de leche is incredibly versatile. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over ice cream, fill cakes or pastries, or layer it in desserts like banoffee pie or cheesecakes. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite for many sweet treats.

How should I store homemade dulce de leche?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To revive dulce de leche that has thickened over time, gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave to return it to a pourable consistency.

Is dulce de leche gluten-free?

Typically, yes. Dulce de leche is made primarily from milk and sugar, which are gluten-free ingredients. However, always check labels for additives in commercial products that might contain gluten.

This FAQ section aims to guide beginners and seasoned cooks alike in mastering the art of dulce de leche, enhancing the overall usability and enjoyment of your sweet culinary creations.