Caramelized Milk (Cajeta or Dulce de Leche) Recipe
Introduction
In the vibrant tapestry of Mexican cuisine, there’s a delightful creation known as “cajeta,” a sweet treat akin to the popular “dulce de leche” found in other Latin American countries. Often nestled in jars on supermarket shelves, this luscious caramelized milk concoction adds a touch of indulgence to various dishes, from drizzling over pancakes to spreading on toast. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, cajeta has become a beloved ingredient in many Mexican dessert recipes. Today, we’ll unveil the secrets to crafting this ambrosial delight right in your own kitchen.
Recipe Details
- Category: Sauces
- Keywords: Dessert, Mexican, South American, Healthy, High In…, < 30 Mins, Easy
- Preparation Time: 0 minutes
- Cooking Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories per Serving: 1716.7
- Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Fat: 46.5g
- Saturated Fat: 29.3g
- Cholesterol: 181.8mg
- Sodium: 679.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 290.9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 290.9g
- Protein: 42.3g
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering your sole ingredient, a can of sweetened condensed milk.
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Microwave Initial Cooking: Empty the contents of the sweetened condensed milk into a large microwave-safe bowl. Place it in the microwave and heat on medium power for two minutes.
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Stir and Repeat: After the initial two minutes, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the mixture using a wire whisk. This helps distribute the heat evenly.
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Continue Heating: Return the bowl to the microwave and heat again on medium power for another two minutes. Repeat the stirring process.
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Caramelization Process: Now, it’s time to embark on the caramelization journey. Set your microwave to medium-low power and return the bowl to it for a duration of 16 to 24 minutes. During this time, keep a watchful eye on the mixture, stirring it every few minutes.
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Achieve Desired Consistency: As the sweetened condensed milk undergoes caramelization, it will gradually transform into a thick, amber-hued liquid. The key is to cook it until it reaches your desired consistency and color, reminiscent of rich caramel.
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Exercise Caution: Remember, as the mixture cooks, it will become exceedingly hot. Handle with care to avoid any accidents.
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Cooling and Serving: Once the cajeta reaches the perfect caramel color and texture, remove it from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly. Then, transfer it to a serving vessel of your choice.
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Indulge: Your homemade cajeta is now ready to grace your favorite dishes! Drizzle it over fluffy pancakes, spread it generously on warm toast, or use it as a decadent dip for fruit slices. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
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Storage: Store any leftover cajeta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for future enjoyment. Simply reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
With just one humble ingredient and a bit of patience, you can create a sumptuous batch of homemade cajeta that rivals any store-bought version. Elevate your culinary creations with this velvety caramelized milk sauce, and let its rich flavor transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Mexico. Whether enjoyed as a topping, filling, or indulgent treat on its own, cajeta is sure to add a touch of sweetness to every bite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the microwave, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with creamy, caramelized bliss! 🍮✨