Dulce de leche is a rich, sweet, caramel-like flavor that originated in Latin America. The name literally translates to “milk candy” or “sweet milk” in Spanish. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a sweet, milky taste reminiscent of caramel, butterscotch, or sweetened condensed milk.
Where Does Dulce de Leche Come From?
Dulce de leche has its origins in Latin America, particularly Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and parts of Brazil where it is commonly used in desserts, confections and beverages. It’s made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until the natural sugars caramelize, creating a thick, decadent sauce or paste.
There are a few theories about how dulce de leche first came about:
- According to one legend, it was accidentally discovered in the 19th century by a maid in Argentina who was making sweetened milk but got distracted and let it boil for hours, turning the milk into dulce de leche.
- Others believe dulce de leche has its roots in a creamy milk-based caramel candy called manjar or arequipe which was popular in medieval Spain and Portugal and later brought to Latin America by colonists and immigrants.
- Some food historians think that dulce de leche grew naturally out of the practice of slowly simmering goat’s milk to make sweet condensed milk, which then caramelized into a rich caramel sauce.
Regardless of its exact origins, dulce de leche became a staple ingredient in many Latin American homes and restaurants, used to fill cookies, cakes, crepes and more. As Latin American cuisine became more popular worldwide, the sweet, rich flavor of dulce de leche spread internationally as well.
How is Dulce de Leche Made?
Authentic dulce de leche is made by slowly simmering milk, sugar and sometimes baking soda or vanilla until it thickens and caramelizes. The process usually takes at least an hour of gentle cooking while stirring frequently to prevent burning. Thickened sweetened condensed milk can also be turned into dulce de leche by baking in a water bath or double boiler for up to two hours until deeply caramelized.
There are a few different methods to make dulce de leche at home:
- Stovetop: Simmer a can or jar of sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan or double boiler of water for 1-2 hours, covered but vented, stirring constantly until thick and caramel-like.
- Slow cooker: Place an unopened can of sweetened condensed milk in a slow cooker, cover with water, cook on low for 7-10 hours until golden brown and thickened.
- Oven: Place an unopened can of sweetened condensed milk in a baking dish with a couple inches of water. Bake at 425F for 1-1.5 hours until deeply caramelized, checking frequently.
For richer dulce de leche, milk and sugar can be simmered slowly on the stovetop for a deeper, more complex flavor. Adding a pinch of baking soda helps the milk caramelize faster while a dash of vanilla enhances the flavor.
What Does Dulce de Leche Taste Like?
Dulce de leche has a sweet, milky, buttery caramel flavor. It tastes like a richer, thicker, more intensely caramelized version of sweetened condensed milk. The caramelization gives it a subtle butterscotch and toasted sugar taste.
Compared to regular caramel, dulce de leche tends to be:
- Richer and creamier with a smooth, velvety texture
- Milkier and less cloyingly sweet
- More complex in flavor with subtle nutty, buttery, vanilla notes
- Usually thicker in consistency than a thin, running caramel sauce
The sweetness of dulce de leche can vary depending on how long it’s cooked. A shorter cooking time results in a milder, milkier flavor. Cooking it longer intensifies the caramel flavor and makes it deeply browned with hints of butterscotch, vanilla and nuts.
Common Dulce de Leche Uses
Dulce de leche can be used in a variety of sweet or dessert preparations. Here are some of the most common ways it is used:
- Spread: Dulce de leche is an incredibly popular spread or dip for everything from toast, muffins and pancakes to fresh fruit, cookies and crepes.
- Fillings and sauces: It’s often used as a filling for cakes, cookies, donuts, cupcakes, pies, churros, brownies and more. It also makes a delicious ice cream or crepe sauce.
- Drinks: Swirled into coffee drinks like lattes or mochas or blended into milkshakes, smoothies and frozen drinks.
- On its own: Dulce de leche is delicious eaten with a spoon straight from the jar or can!
In Latin American cuisine, some popular uses for dulce de leche include:
- Alfajores – Dulce de leche sandwich cookies
- Brigadeiros – Brazilian chocolates with a dulce de leche filling
- Arepas – Stuffed corn cakes filled with dulce de leche
- Panqueques – Crepes rolled up with dulce de leche and fruit
Where Can I Buy Dulce de Leche?
Here are some places where pre-made dulce de leche can be purchased:
- Grocery stores: Look in the international aisle for brands like La Lechera or Nestle. May be labeled “cajeta” or “manjar”.
- Latin/Hispanic markets: Large selections of Latin American brands like Conaprole, Coronado, and Gloria.
- Online: Amazon, Walmart, HispanicFoods.com sell many popular brands.
- Specialty food stores: Stores like Whole Foods, Dean & Deluca will carry gourmet or small-batch versions.
- Bakeries and cafes: Some bake shops that make homemade dulce de leche may sell jars of it.
Be sure to check the ingredients – true dulce de leche contains just milk, sugar, and sometimes vanilla or baking soda. Avoid versions with preservatives, stabilizers or vegetable oils.
How Long Does Dulce de Leche Last?
Properly stored, dulce de leche lasts for:
- Unopened – Up to 12 months past the printed expiration date.
- Opened – 3 to 4 weeks refrigerated.
- Frozen – Up to 6 months in an airtight container.
Signs that dulce de leche has gone bad include mold, odd separated texture, sour smell or taste.
To extend its shelf life, store dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. Keep opened cans refrigerated and tightly covered. For homemade dulce de leche, store in sterilized jars in the fridge.
Is Dulce de Leche Healthy?
Dulce de leche is high in sugar and calories so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat. A 2 tablespoon (30g) serving provides:
- Calories: 132
- Fat: 3g
- Carbs: 25g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 3g
While high in sugar, dulce de leche made from milk contains small amounts of protein, calcium, vitamin A and potassium. It has more nutritional value than plain sugar.
Those managing diabetes or weight should be mindful of portion sizes due to the high carbohydrate content. Regular dulce de leche is not suitable for those avoiding dairy due to the milk content.
Substitutes for Dulce de Leche
If you don’t have dulce de leche, here are some substitutions:
- Sweetened condensed milk – Will have a milder flavor but works well baked into desserts.
- Caramel sauce – Use a high quality storebought or homemade caramel for spreading or dipping.
- Cajeta – A Mexican version of dulce de leche made from goat’s milk or cow’s milk.
- Butterscotch sauce – Has a similar brown sugar and butter flavor.
- Hazelnut spread – Can mimic the texture and spreadability of dulce de leche.
For recipes needing only a small amount, sweetened condensed milk or quality caramel sauce will provide the most similar flavor and texture.
Fun Facts About Dulce de Leche
- The biggest producer and consumer of dulce de leche is Argentina, where it’s nicknamed “the national obsession”.
- November 14th is National Dulce de Leche Day in Argentina.
- A 6.6 ton dulce de leche sculpture holds the Guinness World Record for the largest sweet sculpture.
- Astronauts on the International Space Station created dulce de leche in space using a special zero-gravity oven in 2015.
- High-end restaurants have used dulce de leche in intriguing savory dishes like oysters, sushi rolls and foie gras preparations.
- Dulce de leche flavored treats include cookies, cakes, ice cream, cocktails, candy and even lip balm!
In Conclusion
With its rich caramel sweetness and silky texture, it’s no wonder dulce de leche has achieved global popularity far beyond its Latin American origins. This versatile and addictive treat can be used to upgrade everything from simple treats like toast and fruit to decadent desserts and drinks. While high in sugar, it provides a more nutritious alternative to products with artificial or non-dairy ingredients. When enjoyed in moderation, dulce de leche is a delicious way to satisfy any sweet tooth.
