Condensed milk - Dulce de leche

Dulce de leche – Sweetened condensed milk cream with caramel flavor

If you've made it this far, you're undoubtedly looking for a delicious recipe that brings a touch of magic to your kitchen. Dulce de leche is a sweetened condensed milk cream with a smooth texture, a rich caramel flavor, and a warm color that will delight your senses. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for use in various desserts or simply enjoyed on a slice of toast. I invite you to discover step by step how to achieve this delight!

Total time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: Approximately 300 g of dulce de leche

Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (approximately 395 g)
- 1 baking dish (or another heat-resistant container)
- Water (enough to fill the tray halfway up the baking dish)

History and Benefits
Dulce de leche has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. This sweetened condensed milk cream has become a staple ingredient in desserts due to its versatility. It is rich in calories but also in nutrients, providing a quick source of energy. This recipe is not only simple but also very satisfying, and the final result will surely become a favorite among your loved ones.

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dish
Start by preheating the oven to 150°C. Take the can of sweetened condensed milk and make sure it is well sealed. If you can't find sweetened condensed milk in stores, you can order it online, and delivery is quick and convenient.

Step 2: Placing the dish in the tray
Place the can of sweetened condensed milk in a baking dish, then fill the tray with water halfway up the dish. This step is essential because the water will help maintain a constant temperature and prevent the contents from burning.

Step 3: Baking
Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent water evaporation. Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 2 hours. Check the water level from time to time and top up with warm water if necessary. This is a crucial step because if the water level drops too much, there is a risk of the milk burning.

Step 4: Cooling and storing
After 2 hours, remove the tray from the oven and let the baking dish cool for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully open the can of sweetened condensed milk. You will enjoy a sweet and rich aroma that will fill your kitchen. Transfer the cream to a clean container and store it in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Serving
Dulce de leche can be used in countless ways: from filling cakes to topping ice cream or even on a slice of toasted bread. You can try using it as a filling for pancakes or as an ingredient in cheesecake.

Tips and Variations
If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with various flavors, adding a pinch of sea salt for a delicious contrast or a bit of vanilla for extra flavor. Additionally, dulce de leche can be used as an ingredient in hot drinks, such as coffee or hot chocolate, turning them into a true delight.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use homemade sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, if you have a recipe for homemade sweetened condensed milk, you can use it to make dulce de leche. Just ensure it has a similar consistency.

2. What other desserts can I make with dulce de leche?
Dulce de leche is ideal for filling cakes, making filled cookies, or being used as a topping for muffins and ice cream.

3. How long does dulce de leche last in the refrigerator?
If stored in an airtight container, dulce de leche can stay fresh for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Dulce de leche is a good source of calories, containing approximately 320 kcal per 100 g. It is rich in carbohydrates and fats, providing quick energy. However, moderate consumption is recommended, especially if you are following a diet.

In conclusion, dulce de leche is a simple and flavorful recipe that will transform any dessert into something special. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the result with your loved ones. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or use it in various dishes, dulce de leche will always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it. Enjoy!