Dulce de Leche (Cooked Condensed Milk)

This homemade dulce de leche recipe is a simple and delicious way to make the rich, caramel-like treat at home using just two ingredients: sweetened condensed milk and a slow cooker. The slow cooking method transforms the milk into a silky smooth, golden spread perfect for topping desserts, drizzling over ice cream, or enjoying straight from the spoon. With a hands-off approach, this recipe delivers a creamy, indulgent treat that’s free of preservatives and mystery ingredients. Discover how to make homemade dulce de leche in your slow cooker for the perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk

Instructions:

1. Start by washing two small jam jars thoroughly and ensuring they are clean.
2. Pour one can of sweetened condensed milk into each jar. Seal the jars tightly by hand.
3. Place the sealed jars into a slow cooker and fill it with hot water (the hot water helps speed up the process).
4. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 4 hours. If you’d like, you can set it to low for 6-8 hours and leave it overnight.
5. Once the cooking time is up, carefully drain the water, and allow the jars of dulce de leche to cool on the counter.
6. The dulce de leche should have the perfect color and smooth texture. Enjoy it fresh!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dulce de leche made in a slow cooker is an easy, no-fuss way to create this delicious, caramel-like treat at home. With just two simple ingredients, you’ll have a rich and creamy spread that’s perfect for drizzling over desserts, spreading on toast, or eating straight from the spoon. The slow cooking method ensures a smooth and velvety texture, with a beautifully golden color and flavor that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Tips

• Water Level: Make sure the water completely covers the jars, as this ensures even cooking.
• Time: The cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker, so feel free to adjust it. If you want a thicker consistency, let it cook a little longer.
• Temperature: For a faster version, you can cook on high for 4 hours, or for a more relaxed approach, use low for 6-8 hours overnight.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sugar-Free Version: You can make a sugar-free version using sugar-free sweetened condensed milk, though the flavor might be slightly different.
• Add Flavors: For added flavor, you can infuse the milk with a vanilla bean or a pinch of sea salt during the cooking process.
• Caramelized Dulce de Leche: If you prefer a slightly darker, more caramelized flavor, leave the jars in the slow cooker for a few extra hours until the color deepens.

FAQs

• Can I make this with regular milk instead of condensed milk? No, dulce de leche requires the thick consistency and sweetness of sweetened condensed milk to achieve the right texture and flavor.
• Is this safe? Yes, cooking sealed cans in a slow cooker is safe. Just make sure the cans are sealed tightly to avoid leakage.
• Can I store this for later? Yes, you can store your homemade dulce de leche in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to transfer it into an airtight container once it has cooled.

Serving Suggestions

• Desserts: Drizzle dulce de leche over ice cream, cakes, or brownies for a sweet finishing touch.
• Coffee: Stir into your morning coffee for a rich, caramel flavor.
• Toast or Pancakes: Spread it on toast or drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast or brunch option.
• Fruit Dip: Use it as a dip for fresh fruit, such as apples or strawberries, for a quick, delicious snack.