Low Sodium Doce de Leite
Indulge in the creamy decadence of homemade **Low Sodium Doce de Leite**, a lighter twist on Brazil’s beloved caramel spread. Crafted with just four simple ingredients—whole milk, granulated sugar, baking soda, and a touch of vanilla—this recipe retains all the rich, velvety charm of traditional doce de leite while minimizing sodium for a healthier option. Slowly simmered to perfection over two hours, this luscious treat develops a deep golden hue and smooth, spreadable texture that’s perfect for elevating toast, cookies, or desserts. With minimal prep time and no need for special equipment, this low sodium version is both easy to make and packed with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re seeking a sweet breakfast topping or a dessert centerpiece, this homemade classic promises indulgence in every spoonful.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups Whole milk
- 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the whole milk and granulated sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
Place the pot over medium heat, and stir in the baking soda. The baking soda acts as a stabilizer and helps prevent crystal formation.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and does not burn.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Allow the mixture to cook at a low simmer, while stirring occasionally, for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
As the mixture cooks, it will gradually thicken and darken into a rich caramel color. Stir more frequently towards the end to prevent scorching.
When the doce de leite reaches a consistency similar to that of a thick syrup or spreadable caramel, remove the pot from heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly and let the doce de leite cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
Transfer the doce de leite into a clean, airtight jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 weeks.
Enjoy as a spread on toast, cookies, or as a filling for pastries and desserts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1750 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.2 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.2 g | 91% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 117 mg | 39% | |
| Sodium | 686 mg | 30% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 345.7 g | 126% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 347.5 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.
