Goat's milk caramel from Celaya, Guanajuato is Mexico's most iconic confection. This family-favorite sweet is a rich, velvety, caramelized treasure of Mexican candy-making.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine goat's milk and sugar. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until sugar dissolves completely.
Add the cinnamon stick and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, adjusting heat to avoid scorching and stirring often to prevent sticking.
Stir in baking soda, reduce heat to low, and continue simmering. The milk will foam—keep stirring and cook uncovered, scraping the bottom and sides steadily.
As the mixture thickens and turns a deep caramel color (about 1.5 hours), control the heat between low and medium-low to ensure even reduction without burning.
When thick and syrupy, remove the cinnamon stick, stir in vanilla extract, and cook for 3–5 more minutes to evenly distribute flavor. Remove from heat and cool slightly before transferring to a jar.