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How to make Dulce de Leche (the easy way)

Dulce de leche made with condensed milk is super silky, has a lighter flavor than store-bought dulce de leche, and goes great with any dessert. Best of all, you can adjust the consistency just by changing the cooking time!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Cooling time4 hours
Total Time8 hours 5 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Argentine
Keyword: argentine, caramel, caramelized, creamy, dairy, milky, semisweet chocolate
Author: Lucia Paula Acevedo

Ingredients

  • 1 can of condensed milk or as many as you can fit in your pot

Instructions

  • Fill a large pot with water and submerge the can of condensed milk (without the lavel). Cover the can with 2 inches of water throughout the cooking.
  • Bring to medium heat. When it comes to a boil, lower the heat so that it stays simmering.
  • Set a timer for half an hour to fill the pot with hot water as it evaporates. Repeat the process until completing the total cooking time (2 and 1/2 to 4 hours).
  • Cook for 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours for a more liquid and light dulce de leche. Leave for 3 ½ to 4 hours for a firmer, darker dulce de leche (this is my choice).
  • Turn off the heat and let it cool in the pot overnight or until the water is lukewarm or cold.
  • Store unopened cans in the pantry for up to 3 months. If you open the can, transfer it to a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Be sure to have the cans covered with water at all times!