I recently experimented with a can of full-fat sweetened condensed milk to create a silky, irresistible homemade caramel. The process is refreshingly simple, and the result is a sublime sauce that effortlessly enhances any dessert. This unique twist on dessert sauces has quickly become my secret indulgence.
I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen lately and finally perfected the BEST way to make dulce de leche. I never really thought that making a rich, smooth caramel would be so simple until I tried using just one key ingredient: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (use full fat for best flavor).
This recipe quickly became my go-to when I needed a versatile sauce that can elevate everything from cake fillings to dessert toppings. I love how this milk caramel can be easily transformed into a delightful caramel sauce, fudge sauce or even used in homemade caramel desserts.
There’s something truly satisfying about blending simplicity with amazing flavor. With three super easy methods to try out, this recipe is perfect for those looking to create a sweet sauce that is both decadent and simple.
You might be surprised by how it enhances everyday treats and food cakes alike. Enjoy the sweet adventure!
Why I Like this Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s super simple and doesn’t require a bunch of ingredients. I only needed that one can of sweetened condensed milk and the rest is just water and time. It makes me feel like a real chef even though it only takes a couple steps to get that smooth caramel going.
Another thing i really like is the flexibility. Whether i’m in a rush or wanna take my time, i can pick the stovetop, oven or slow cooker method. It makes it easy to work around my busy schedule and still end up with something that tastes amazing.
I also dig how the recipe literally turns a single can into this rich and creamy treat. Every time i stir it, i’m reminded of how awesome it is to create something so decadent from such simple stuff. It always reminds me of the little culinary hacks i love to practice in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk has a thick, creamy texture that makes it unique.
- It adds a natural sweetness with lots of sugars boosting the caramel flavor.
- This ingredient brings small amounts of protein, helping create a smooth mouthfeel.
- The full fat version is richer and offers a more indulgent caramel note.
- Carbohydrates in it help promote browning, making your dulce de leche extra golden.
- It has no fibre which makes it smooth but might not be the healthiest choice.
- Its rich flavor and simple ingredient list make it perfect for a secret dessert twist.
Ingredient Quantities
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (use full fat for best flavor)
How to Make this
1. First, decide which method you wanna use: stovetop, oven or slow cooker since each gives awesome results.
2. For the stovetop method, put the unopened can in a large pot and cover it with water at least a couple inches above the can then bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, checking the water level every now and then.
3. For the oven method, preheat your oven to 425°F then place the can upright in a small baking dish. Pour in boiling water until it reaches about half the can and bake for roughly 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
4. For the slow cooker method, place the unopened can in the slow cooker, fill with water till it completely submerges the can and set it on low for about 8-10 hours.
5. Make sure that during any method you choose the can is always covered with water so it doesnt overheat and become dangerous.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the can with tongs and let it cool completely at room temp (this step is super important so you dont get burned when opening it).
7. When its fully cooled, open the can and stir the caramel until it becomes nicely smooth, you might need to whisk it a little bit to get that perfect consistency.
8. Enjoy your homemade dulce de leche in desserts or store it in a sealed container in the fridge for later use.
Equipment Needed
1. A large pot for the stovetop method (it should be big enough so water can cover the can by a couple of inches)
2. A slow cooker or a small baking dish if you’re going with the slow cooker or oven method
3. Your heat source (stovetop burner, oven, or the slow cooker unit itself)
4. A pot to boil water when using the oven method (if you need preheated water, that is)
5. Tongs to safely take out the hot can once it’s done cooking
6. A whisk to stir the caramel smooth after you open the can
7. A sealed container for storing your cooled dulce de leche if you plan to save some for later
FAQ
The BEST Way To Make Dulce De Leche Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- If you dont have sweetened condensed milk, you can mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1/4 cup sugar and a pinch of salt then simmer it until it thickens up as a homemade version.
- You could also try using evaporated milk with extra sugar added (about 1/3 cup for each can of evaporated milk) and cook it down so it comes out similar.
- For a twist, try coconut milk condensed milk by mixing full-fat coconut milk with coconut sugar; it’ll give you a different flavor but still works great.
Pro Tips
1. Always keep a close watch on the water level during cooking do not let the water run too low because that can lead the can to overheat and become dangerous
2. When it’s done, be extra careful removing the can with tongs and let it cool completely – jumping the cooling step can burn you
3. Give the opened dulce de leche a solid whisk to help smooth out any lumps since a little extra stirring makes a big difference
4. If you’re busy or not around much, using the slow cooker works great; just double-check that the can stays fully submerged throughout the process
The BEST Way To Make Dulce De Leche Recipe
My favorite The BEST Way To Make Dulce De Leche Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. A large pot for the stovetop method (it should be big enough so water can cover the can by a couple of inches)
2. A slow cooker or a small baking dish if you’re going with the slow cooker or oven method
3. Your heat source (stovetop burner, oven, or the slow cooker unit itself)
4. A pot to boil water when using the oven method (if you need preheated water, that is)
5. Tongs to safely take out the hot can once it’s done cooking
6. A whisk to stir the caramel smooth after you open the can
7. A sealed container for storing your cooled dulce de leche if you plan to save some for later
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (use full fat for best flavor)
Instructions:
1. First, decide which method you wanna use: stovetop, oven or slow cooker since each gives awesome results.
2. For the stovetop method, put the unopened can in a large pot and cover it with water at least a couple inches above the can then bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, checking the water level every now and then.
3. For the oven method, preheat your oven to 425°F then place the can upright in a small baking dish. Pour in boiling water until it reaches about half the can and bake for roughly 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
4. For the slow cooker method, place the unopened can in the slow cooker, fill with water till it completely submerges the can and set it on low for about 8-10 hours.
5. Make sure that during any method you choose the can is always covered with water so it doesnt overheat and become dangerous.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the can with tongs and let it cool completely at room temp (this step is super important so you dont get burned when opening it).
7. When its fully cooled, open the can and stir the caramel until it becomes nicely smooth, you might need to whisk it a little bit to get that perfect consistency.
8. Enjoy your homemade dulce de leche in desserts or store it in a sealed container in the fridge for later use.
