Dulce De Leche

Dulce De Leche – creamy Argentine caramel spread
Argentina
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Dulce De Leche is a rich, sweet caramel-like sauce made from slowly simmered milk and sugar, deeply rooted in Argentine culture. Often enjoyed as a topping for cakes, pastries, and even on toast, this beloved treat embodies the essence of Argentine indulgence and is a staple in many households.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~200 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, and baking soda. Add the vanilla bean seeds and the split pod (or vanilla extract if using).

Cook the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

Simmer and Reduce

Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer the mixture, stirring frequently, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the mixture has thickened and turned a deep caramel color.

Remove the Vanilla Bean

If you used a vanilla bean, remove the split pod from the mixture once it has thickened.

Cool the Dulce de Leche

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dulce de leche cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Store and Serve

Transfer the dulce de leche to a clean jar or airtight container. Once completely cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dulce De Leche?

Dulce De Leche is a sweet caramel-like sauce made from milk and sugar, cooked over low heat until it thickens.

Where does Dulce De Leche come from?

Dulce De Leche is widely associated with Argentina, where it is a cherished part of the culinary tradition.

What are the main ingredients in Dulce De Leche?

The key ingredients include whole milk, granulated sugar, baking soda, and vanilla.

How long does Dulce De Leche take to make?

It takes approximately 100-135 minutes to prepare Dulce De Leche.

What do you serve with Dulce De Leche?

Dulce De Leche pairs beautifully with pancakes, ice cream, or as a filling for pastries.