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Introduction:
There’s something simply irresistible about Dulce de Leche — that creamy, golden caramel made from just one humble ingredient: sweetened condensed milk. Beloved across Latin America, this luscious treat offers a smooth, velvety texture and a deep caramel flavor that elevates any dessert.
The slow cooker method is by far the easiest and safest way to make it. No standing over the stove, no risk of scorching — just set it, let it simmer slowly, and return hours later to a jar of silky caramel perfection. It’s the ultimate hands-off dessert sauce, perfect for spooning over ice cream, pancakes, brownies, cheesecake, or even straight from the jar!
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Total Time:
8 to 10 hours
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Yields:
About 1 (14 oz) jar
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Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- Hot water, enough to fully submerge the jar or can
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Instructions:
Option 1: In the Can (Classic Method)
- Remove the label from the unopened can of sweetened condensed milk.
- Place the can on its side in the slow cooker.
- Fill the slow cooker with hot water until the can is completely submerged — at least 1–2 inches of water above it.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours:
- 8 hours → lighter, creamier caramel
- 10 hours → deeper, thicker caramel
- Turn off the slow cooker and allow the can to cool completely before opening (this is very important to prevent burns).
- Once cooled, open and stir until smooth.
Option 2: In a Mason Jar (Safer Method)
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a heat-safe glass jar (such as a Mason jar).
- Seal tightly with a lid.
- Place the jar in the slow cooker and fill with hot water until the water level is at least 1 inch above the lid.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours.
- Carefully remove the jar with tongs and let it cool before opening.
- Stir the caramel until smooth and creamy.
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Serving Ideas:
Use this luscious caramel sauce to:
- Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or crepes
- Spread on toast, brownies, or cookies
- Swirl into cheesecake or coffee
- Or enjoy it straight from the spoon — we won’t judge! 😋
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Storage:
- Store in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or over warm water to soften before using.