Dulce De Leche Latin American Caramel Spread
Indulge in the rich, velvety sweetness of Dulce de Leche, a classic Latin American caramel spread made with just four simple ingredients—whole milk, sugar, baking soda, and vanilla. This homemade treat is slowly simmered to achieve its signature golden hue and luscious, creamy texture, perfect for drizzling over your favorite desserts, spreading on toast, or enjoying straight from the jar. With its deep caramel flavor and silky smooth consistency, this two-hour labor of love is worth every minute. Whether you're creating a decadent layer for cakes or elevating your morning coffee, this versatile confection is a must-try for caramel enthusiasts. Store it in your fridge for up to two weeks, and savor a taste of Latin American tradition with every spoonful.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups Whole milk
- 1.25 cups Granulated sugar
- 0.5 teaspoons Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the whole milk and granulated sugar.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the baking soda and stir to combine. The baking soda helps prevent curdling as the milk is heated.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while watching closely to prevent it from boiling over.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon to prevent the bottom from scorching.
As the mixture reduces and thickens, stir more frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
After about 1.5 to 2 hours, the mixture will turn a golden caramel color and have a thick, creamy texture. Test by running a spoon through the mixture—it should leave a trail that doesn't immediately fill back in.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Let the dulce de leche cool slightly before transferring it to a clean jar or container.
Once completely cooled, seal and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature or gently heat before using if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1560 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.2 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.2 g | 91% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 117 mg | 39% | |
| Sodium | 1001 mg | 44% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 295.7 g | 108% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 297.5 g | ||
| Protein | 31.9 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 10.7 mcg | 54% | |
| Calcium | 1201 mg | 92% | |
| Iron | 0.0 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 1473 mg | 31% | |
*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.
