Homemade Dulce de Leche

Ecuadorian Homemade Dulce de Leche Recipe - Condensed Milk

Region / culture: Ecuador | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour (oven method) or 25 minutes (microwave method) | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Dulce de Leche is a sweet and creamy caramel sauce that is popular in many Latin American countries. It is made by slowly cooking condensed milk until it becomes thick and caramelized. This homemade version is easy to make and tastes delicious on its own or as a topping for desserts like ice cream, cakes, and cookies.

History

The origins of Dulce de Leche can be traced back to Argentina, where it is a staple in many households. It is believed to have been created by accident when a cook left a pot of milk and sugar on the stove for too long, resulting in a thick and caramelized sauce. Since then, Dulce de Leche has become a beloved treat in many countries around the world.

Ingredients

1 can (14 oz / 397 g) of condensed milk (NOT evaporated)

How to prepare

Oven Method

Pour 1 can of condensed milk into a 9-inch pie pan.
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in a large roaster pan.
Fill the large pan with boiling water.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 1 hour or until the mixture becomes thick and caramel colored.
Beat the mixture until smooth.

Microwave Method

Pour 1 can of condensed milk into a 2 qt (1.89 liter) glass measuring cup.
Cook on 50% power for 4 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until smooth.
Then cook on 30% power for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture becomes thick and caramel colored.
Stir the mixture every 4 minutes for the first 15 minutes, then every 2 minutes during the last 6-10 minutes.
Cover the cup and refrigerate.

Variations

Add a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel flavor.
Stir in a splash of rum or bourbon for a boozy twist.
Mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use condensed milk, not evaporated milk, for this recipe.

- When baking in the oven, make sure to cover the pan with aluminum foil to prevent the mixture from drying out.

- Stir the mixture frequently when cooking in the microwave to ensure even caramelization.

- Store Dulce de Leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Dulce de Leche drizzled over ice cream, spread on toast, or used as a filling for cakes and pastries.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Dulce de Leche is slow cooking the condensed milk until it becomes thick and caramelized. This can be done in the oven or microwave, depending on your preference.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have condensed milk on hand, you can make Dulce de Leche using whole milk and sugar. Simply combine 2 cups of whole milk with 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan and cook over low heat until thick and caramelized.

Make Ahead Tips

Dulce de Leche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dulce de Leche in a small dish with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Dulce de Leche pairs well with desserts like flan, churros, and crepes. It also tastes delicious drizzled over fresh fruit or stirred into coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Dulce de Leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Homemade Dulce de Leche contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Homemade Dulce de Leche contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Homemade Dulce de Leche contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Homemade Dulce de Leche contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Dulce de Leche is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

Dulce de Leche contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Homemade Dulce de Leche is a sweet treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Homemade Dulce de Leche is a sweet and creamy caramel sauce that is easy to make and delicious to eat. Whether drizzled over ice cream or spread on toast, this versatile sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Homemade Dulce de Leche. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl growing up in a small village in Argentina. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious desserts, had passed down this recipe to me, along with many others that she had learned from her own mother and grandmother.

The key to making the perfect Dulce de Leche, she told me, was to be patient and attentive. It was a simple recipe, requiring only two ingredients – sweetened condensed milk and a pinch of salt – but it was the process of slow cooking and stirring that truly made it special.

I vividly remember the first time I attempted to make Dulce de Leche on my own. I carefully poured the sweetened condensed milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan, added a pinch of salt, and placed it on the stove over low heat. As the milk began to simmer, I stirred it constantly, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent it from burning.

The rich, caramel color that slowly began to develop was mesmerizing. It reminded me of the warm, golden sunsets that painted the sky over our village every evening. I could almost taste the sweet, creamy goodness that was beginning to take shape before my eyes.

As the hours passed, the aroma of caramelized sugar filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I continued to stir the Dulce de Leche, watching as it thickened and darkened in color. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, it was ready.

I carefully poured the Dulce de Leche into a glass jar, marveling at its silky smooth texture and rich, decadent flavor. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, knowing that it would be a hit.

From that day on, Homemade Dulce de Leche became a staple in my recipe collection. I would make it for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays, or simply whenever I needed a sweet treat to brighten my day.

Over the years, I perfected my technique, learning to adjust the cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor. I experimented with different variations, adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to create unique twists on the classic recipe.

My family and friends always raved about my Homemade Dulce de Leche, calling it the best they had ever tasted. They would often request jars of it as gifts, knowing that each spoonful was made with love and care.

As I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of this recipe lay not only in its delicious taste, but in the memories and traditions that it carried with it. It was a connection to my heritage, a reminder of the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their culinary wisdom and expertise.

Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will cherish it as much as I have. May it bring you joy and comfort, and may you always remember the love and history that are woven into its sweet, caramel threads. And who knows, maybe one day you will pass it on to your own grandchildren, continuing the legacy of Homemade Dulce de Leche for generations to come.