Literally translated, dulce de leche means “candy of milk.” This creamy, sweet spread, comprised of milk and sugar that’s been slowly cooked until the sugars caramelize, is smooth and silky, with a look and feel akin to caramel, but with a flavor that’s more complex, and a sweetness that’s far less overwhelming. Because the slow and low cooking method coaxes the flavors from the milk and sugar, it’s an ideal project for your trusty slow cooker. Yes, you can purchase cans of pre-made dulce de leche at the grocery store, but it’s is so simple to make yourself, and makes a great gift for friends, neighbors, teachers or anyone else who would appreciate a little something sweet this holiday season.
To make this delicious Mexican caramel in your slow cooker all you need is one ingredient: sweetened condensed milk. This method requires no stirring and is virtually mess-free. Start by gathering six, four-ounce glass preserving jars with lids and bands, and two 14-ounce cans of sweetened condensed milk.
Start by washing your preserving jars, screw bands and lids with hot soapy water; rinse well with warm water. Open the cans and pour the sweetened condensed milk into the jars. The two cans should fill six small jars.
Add a tag and some ribbon or twine, and your homemade gift is complete. Sweet!
Planning on keeping a jar for your pantry? Put your freshly made dulce de leche to use in any of these top-rated recipes: