Dulce de Leche Recipe
Category: Desserts
Serves: 1
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Milk | 1 liter |
| Sugar | 300 grams |
| Vanilla Bean | ½ pod |
| Baking Soda | ½ teaspoon |
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the vanilla bean. Carefully slice the pod lengthwise using a sharp knife to expose the inner seeds. Scrape the seeds from the pod and set them aside.
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In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, preferably non-stick, pour the whole milk. Add the sugar to the milk and place the pan over low heat. Stir the mixture gently with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar completely.
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Add the scraped vanilla bean seeds and the whole pod into the milk mixture. Stir in the baking soda. The baking soda helps prevent the milk from curdling and aids in the caramelization process, so be sure to mix it in well.
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Allow the milk mixture to heat slowly, stirring occasionally. As the milk heats, keep an eye on it until it reaches a gentle boil. Once it begins to simmer, continue to stir frequently, ensuring that the sugar does not settle at the bottom and burn.
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As the mixture continues to cook, you will notice it starting to thicken and darken in color. This is when the transformation into dulce de leche begins. Keep stirring and let it simmer until the mixture has reduced by about half and reached a creamy, caramel-like consistency. The longer you cook it, the thicker and firmer your dulce de leche will become.
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When the desired consistency is achieved, carefully remove the vanilla pod from the saucepan using tongs. Continue to stir the mixture to ensure an even texture.
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Once done, remove the dulce de leche from the heat and transfer it to a small bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before using or storing.
Serving Suggestions
Dulce de leche can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it as a topping for ice cream, drizzle over cakes or pies, or simply enjoy it with a spoon for a decadent treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- The cooking time for this recipe can vary depending on the heat and the consistency you prefer. Keep an eye on it as it cooks to achieve the perfect texture.
- If you prefer a smoother version, you can strain the dulce de leche to remove any remaining bits of vanilla pod or milk solids.
Enjoy your homemade dulce de leche, a rich and sweet treat that adds an indulgent touch to any dessert!
