How to Make Easy Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche, a sweet and creamy caramel-like sauce, is a beloved treat across Latin America and beyond. This versatile confection can be used in various desserts, drizzled over pancakes, or enjoyed straight from the jar. While traditional recipes may involve simmering sweetened condensed milk for hours, this easy version using powdered milk is a game changer. Let’s explore how to create this delightful treat in your kitchen!

Ingredients

To make this simple and delicious dulce de leche, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ½ cups of water
400 grams (14.1 ounces) powdered milk
1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) sugar

Preparation Method

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large saucepan, combine the 1 ½ cups of water, 400 grams of powdered milk, and 1 kilogram of sugar. Use a whisk or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Ensure that the sugar and powdered milk are fully dissolved to prevent lumps in your dulce de leche.

Step 2: Cook Over Low Heat

Place the saucepan over low heat. This step is crucial; cooking over low heat prevents the mixture from burning and allows the flavors to develop gradually. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, scraping the bottom and sides of the pan to avoid sticking.

As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken. This process usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The mixture is ready when it becomes a rich, beige color and has a thick, smooth consistency.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Once the dulce de leche reaches the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring continuously. This cooling process helps it firm up a bit more.

Step 4: Set in a Dish

Prepare a glass dish by greasing it lightly with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the warm dulce de leche into the dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Let it set until it is firm but still slightly warm.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

When the dulce de leche has set to your desired firmness, use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or any shape you prefer. Let it cool completely before serving. Enjoy it as a snack, spread on toast, or use it as a filling in pastries and cakes!

Cooking Tips

Stir Constantly: Stirring constantly during cooking is essential to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Patience is key here!
Control the Heat: Cooking on low heat is vital for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. High heat can lead to scorching, which will affect the taste.
Check Consistency: If the dulce de leche is too thin after cooking, continue to simmer it until it thickens further. Remember that it will also firm up as it cools.
Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality powdered milk and sugar will enhance the final flavor of your dulce de leche.
Storage: Once cooled completely, store your dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 weeks.

Serving Suggestions

With Fruit: Serve dulce de leche drizzled over fresh fruits like bananas, apples, or pears for a simple yet indulgent dessert.
In Desserts: Use it as a filling for cakes, cupcakes, or pastries. It’s also delicious as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.
In Drinks: Add a spoonful to your coffee or milkshake for a sweet, creamy twist.
Dipped Treats: Serve it with cookies or pretzels for a sweet and salty snack.

FAQs

1. Can I make dulce de leche without powdered milk?

While this recipe specifically uses powdered milk for convenience, you can also make traditional dulce de leche using sweetened condensed milk or whole milk. The cooking time and method may vary.

2. What if my dulce de leche is too thick?

If your dulce de leche becomes too thick, you can stir in a little warm water until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once!

3. Can I add flavoring to the dulce de leche?

Absolutely! You can infuse the dulce de leche with flavors by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt during the cooking process for a salted caramel variation.

4. How do I store leftover dulce de leche?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using.

5. Is dulce de leche the same as caramel?

While both dulce de leche and caramel are sweet, they differ in ingredients and preparation. Dulce de leche is made with milk (or powdered milk) and sugar, giving it a creamy texture, while caramel is made from sugar alone, which is melted until golden brown.

Conclusion

This easy dulce de leche recipe is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. The smooth and creamy texture paired with the rich flavor makes it a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, using it as a dessert filling, or simply savoring it by the spoonful, this homemade dulce de leche will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. With just three simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a deliciously sweet indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion!