23 Nov 2025
Cook time 8 min
Prep time 12 min
Ingredients:
1 cup condensed milk
2 tbsp butter
1/3 cup brown sugar
Dulce de leche is a rich, caramel-like spread that hails from Latin America. It's known for its smooth, luscious texture and its ability to elevate any dessert or snack, from cakes to ice cream. This simple recipe using condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar will guide you to creating this delightful treat right in your own kitchen.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients:
Gather all your ingredients: condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
2. Melt Butter:
In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
3. Add Brown Sugar:
Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar to the saucepan. Continue to stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved into the melted butter. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture burn.
4. Incorporate Condensed Milk:
Gradually pour the condensed milk into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
5. Cook the Mixture:
Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture while stirring constantly. This step requires patience, as you'll need to keep stirring to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning. The goal is to thicken the mixture and achieve a rich, caramel color. This process can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes.
6. Check the Consistency:
When the mixture has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat. It should also have a deep caramel color and a rich, smooth texture. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny while hot.
7. Cool:
Transfer the dulce de leche to a heatproof container and let it cool to room temperature. The cooling process will help it set and achieve the desired consistency.
8. Store:
Once completely cooled, you can store your homemade dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Enjoy your homemade dulce de leche as a topping for desserts, a spread for toast, or even straight from the spoon. This versatile and indulgent treat is sure to become a favorite in your household. The rich, creamy flavor of your homemade dulce de leche will make all your sweet indulgences even more special.
Dulce de leche FAQ:
How long does it take to cook dulce de leche?
Cooking dulce de leche takes about 20 to 30 minutes on low heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning and ensure even thickening.
How can I tell when the dulce de leche is done?
It's done when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, has a rich caramel color, and a smooth texture. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
How should I store homemade dulce de leche?
Store dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Can I substitute other types of sugar for brown sugar?
Yes, you can use white granulated sugar instead of brown sugar, but it may alter the flavor and depth of the dulce de leche.
What can I do if my dulce de leche is too runny?
If it's too runny, return it to the heat and cook for a bit longer, stirring continuously. This will help thicken it further.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to evenly distribute heat and prevent the mixture from burning.
- Stir continuously to ensure the mixture doesn't stick to the pan or form lumps.
- Cook on medium-low heat to gradually thicken the mixture without scorching it.
- For a thicker consistency, cook the mixture longer; for a thinner dulce de leche, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Store your homemade dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.