Best Easy Dulces de Leche Recipe

Milk candies slow-cooked to creamy perfection are a beloved Mexican confection. This traditional, family-friendly sweet is a rich, caramelized treat that melts in your mouth.

Cook 130 min Difficulty NORMAL 98 kcal
#Mexican dessert #Caramel candy #Traditional sweets
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Whole milk 4 cups
  • Granulated sugar 1 cup
  • Baking soda 0.25 tsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Unsalted butter 1 tbsp
  • Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 16 g 65%
Protein 2 g 8%
Fat 3 g 27%
Serving size 35g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine whole milk and granulated sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly until sugar dissolves completely.

  2. 2

    Add baking soda, stirring well to incorporate. Increase heat slightly until the mixture just begins to bubble, then immediately reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.

  3. 3

    Continue simmering uncovered, stirring frequently and scraping the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent sticking and scorching, for 70–90 minutes. The mixture will gradually thicken and turn a light caramel color.

  4. 4

    Once the volume has reduced by half and the mixture coats the back of a spoon, stir in unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Cook for an additional 10 minutes over very low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy.

  5. 5

    Remove from heat. Let cool 10–15 minutes, then spoon into molds or onto parchment paper in small rounds. Allow to set completely at room temperature before serving or storing.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Dulces de Leche recipe?
The defining ingredient is whole milk, which gives Dulces de Leche its creamy texture and rich, caramelized flavor. The slow reduction of milk with sugar and a touch of baking soda is essential to achieving the authentic taste and melt-in-your-mouth consistency this classic candy is known for.
Q. What is the most important cooking technique for perfect Dulces de Leche?
Patience is critical. Simmer the milk and sugar mixture slowly over low heat, stirring and scraping the pan often to prevent scorching. Keeping the heat gentle allows gradual caramelization and a creamy texture without the risk of burning.
Q. How can I avoid a grainy or sticky texture in my Dulces de Leche?
Frequent stirring from the start and maintaining low heat are key. If the mixture is cooked too quickly or left unstirred, sugar may crystallize or the milk may scorch. Thoroughly scrape the pot to prevent bits from sticking or hardening.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in each serving?
Each 35g serving provides approximately 98 kcal, with about 16g carbohydrates. Carbohydrates contribute 65% of the calories in this recipe, while protein makes up 8% and fat about 27%.
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