Best Easy Dulce de Membrillo Recipe

Quince paste slow-cooked to a jewel-like consistency is a traditional Mexican confection. This family-friendly treat is a sweet, aromatic, versatile candy paired with cheese.

Cook 240 min Difficulty NORMAL 180 kcal
#vegetarian #mexican #traditional dessert
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • quince 2.5 lbs
  • lemon 1 piece
Seasonings/Sauce
  • granulated sugar 2 cups
  • water 2 cups
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 45 g 100%
Protein 0 g 0%
Fat 0 g 0%
Serving size 70g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Wash and quarter the quinces, then core them. Do not peel, as the skins add flavor and natural pectin.

  2. 2

    In a large pot, add quince pieces, water, and the juice of 1 lemon. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook until quinces are very soft, about 45–60 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain, reserving about ½ cup of cooking liquid. Puree the cooked quince with reserved liquid using a food processor or immersion blender until perfectly smooth.

  4. 4

    Measure the quince puree volume, then return it to the pot with an equal volume of granulated sugar. Stir well to combine.

  5. 5

    Cook the puree-sugar mixture over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Continue for 1.5–2 hours, or until the paste thickens, turns deep orange-red, and pulls away from the sides. Allow to slowly caramelize for a richer flavor.

  6. 6

    Pour the finished paste into a parchment-lined square pan, spreading evenly. Let cool completely and set at room temperature until firm, at least 6 hours or overnight.

  7. 7

    Once set, unmold and slice with a knife. Serve with slices of cheese or store wrapped in wax paper.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient is quince. Its aromatic and tart character, along with natural pectin in the skin, creates the paste’s signature jewel-like consistency and unique floral taste. Lemon brightens the aroma, while sugar balances the quince’s natural tartness.
Q. What is the critical cooking point when making Dulce de Membrillo?
Controlling the heat during the final cooking stage is crucial. The puree-sugar mixture must be cooked over low heat and stirred constantly to prevent burning and to ensure slow caramelization. You know it’s ready when the paste is deep orange-red and pulls away from the pan sides.
Q. How can I achieve the best texture and avoid overcooking the quince paste?
Aim for a thick, smooth texture that holds its shape once cooled. Be patient during simmering so the quinces soften thoroughly before pureeing, and during the low, slow cooking phase after adding sugar. Stir constantly to avoid scorching and uneven texture; remove from heat as soon as it’s thick and glossy.
Q. How many calories are in each serving, and is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Each 70g serving contains about 180 kcal, all from carbohydrates—around 45g of carbs per serving, with virtually no protein or fat. As it’s fruit-based without any animal products, it’s vegetarian-friendly, but not low-carb or keto.
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