Caramel Sweetened Condensed Milk
Transform a simple can of sweetened condensed milk into a luscious, golden caramel delight with this foolproof recipe for homemade caramelized sweetened condensed milk, also known as dulce de leche. Using an old-fashioned boiling method, this recipe is as simple as simmering an unopened can in water for a few hours, resulting in a perfectly rich, velvety caramel spread that’s naturally sweetened. Ideal for drizzling over desserts, spreading on toast, or stirring into coffee, this versatile treat will elevate any dish with its creamy, indulgent flavor. With just a pinch of optional salt, you can balance the sweetness and enhance the buttery notes, creating a truly irresistible confection. Plus, it stores beautifully in the refrigerator, ready to bring a touch of decadence to your favorite recipes. Perfect for caramel lovers and DIY dessert enthusiasts alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 ounces) Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 pinch Salt (optional)
Instructions
Prepare a medium-sized saucepan or pot with a fitted lid. Ensure the pot is deep enough to fully submerge the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk when filled with water.
Peel the label off the can of sweetened condensed milk and do not open it. Inspect the can to ensure there are no dents, swelling, or damage.
Place the unopened can on its side in the pot to prevent it from rattling during cooking.
Fill the pot with enough water to completely cover the can by at least 1 inch. As the water will evaporate during cooking, ensuring enough coverage is critical to avoid exposing the can, which could lead to a dangerous pressurization situation.
Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a steady simmer.
Cover the pot with the lid and allow the can to simmer for 2 hours for a lighter caramel or up to 3 hours for a deeper, richer caramel. Make sure to check periodically and add more hot water if needed to keep the can fully submerged.
Using tongs or a thick kitchen towel, carefully remove the can from the hot water once the desired cooking time is complete. Allow the can to cool completely to room temperature before opening. This step is crucial to avoid any risk of hot caramel splattering.
Once cool, open the can with a can opener, and transfer the caramelized sweetened condensed milk (also known as dulce de leche) to a heatproof bowl or an airtight container.
If desired, stir in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the caramel flavor.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Allow the caramel to come to room temperature or gently warm before using as desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
110 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.0 g | 4% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g | 9% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 13 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 48 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.6 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.6 g | ||
| Protein | 2.5 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 89 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 114 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
