Dulce de Leche
“Sweet milk caramel used in various desserts.”
Milk
Sugar
VanillaWhere it comes from
Dulce de leche is a beloved Argentine sweet, often spread on toast or used in pastries.
On the Palate
How it's made
4 steps · Show ↓125 min active · 120 min waiting
How it's made
4 steps · Show ↓- 110 min
Pour the milk and sugar into a heavy-bottomed pot. Set it over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. You should see a gentle simmer, not a boil.
Watch outKeep stirring to prevent the sugar from burning on the pot's bottom.
- 290 min
Add baking soda and continue to stir as the mixture simmers. Maintain this gentle simmer, adjusting the heat as needed, and keep stirring for 1.5 to 2 hours until the liquid reduces and thickens.
Watch outDon't let the mixture boil too vigorously; it should remain at a steady simmer.
- 320 min
Watch for the color to shift to a rich golden-brown. This indicates the Maillard reaction is taking place, deepening the flavor.
Watch outStop cooking once the desired color is achieved; overcooking can lead to bitterness.
- 45 min
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Allow the dulce de leche to cool completely, thickening further as it rests.
