Imagine transforming a simple can of sweetened condensed milk into a luxurious, golden caramel sauce that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This authentic homemade dulce de leche recipe is about to revolutionize your dessert game, bringing the rich, indulgent flavors of Mexico straight to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you'll create a silky smooth caramel that's infinitely more delicious than anything you've ever bought in a store.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 jar
Ingredients
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Remove the label from the sweetened condensed milk can and ensure the can is completely sealed without any dents or damage.
- Fill a large, deep pot with water, ensuring there's enough water to completely submerge the can by at least 2-3 inches above its top.
- Place the unopened can on its side in the water, making sure it remains fully covered throughout the cooking process.
- Heat the water to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, maintaining a consistent temperature between 180-190°F (82-88°C).
- Add the baking soda to the water, which helps prevent potential can corrosion and promotes even caramelization.
- Carefully monitor the water level during cooking, adding more hot water as needed to keep the can fully submerged.
- Simmer the can for approximately 2 hours, turning the can occasionally to ensure even heating and caramelization.
- After 2 hours, carefully remove the can from the water using tongs and place it on a heat-resistant surface to cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, open the can using a can opener and transfer the dulce de leche to a clean glass jar.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the caramel flavor and create a smooth, rich consistency.
- Store the dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Before serving, let the dulce de leche sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften and become more spreadable.
Tips
- Always use a brand new, undamaged can of sweetened condensed milk to ensure food safety.
- Use a deep pot to prevent water evaporation during the long cooking process.
- Keep a close eye on the water level, topping up with hot water to maintain full can submersion.
- Use tongs when handling the hot can to prevent burns.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of bourbon to your finished dulce de leche.
- If you want a darker, more intense caramel, you can cook the can for an additional 30-60 minutes.
- Always let the can cool completely before opening to prevent potential pressure-related accidents.
- For a smooth texture, whisk the dulce de leche thoroughly after adding the vanilla extract.
- Experiment with different uses - spread it on toast, drizzle over ice cream, or use as a filling for pastries!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
