Indulge in the Magic of Slow Cooker Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel
Get ready to discover the culinary magic of turning a single ingredient into a rich, decadent treat. Today, we’re diving into the simplicity and beauty of Slow Cooker Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel. Also known as “Dulce de Leche” in Latin America or “Cajeta” in Mexico, this caramel is a testament to how humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary results.
Whether you need a delicious topping for desserts, a sweetener for your coffee, or a unique gift for a friend, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s turn an ordinary can of sweetened condensed milk into a versatile delight that will elevate your culinary creations!
Slow Cooker Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel
Servings: Yields 1 to 1 1/2 cups of caramel
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
Directions:
- Prep the Can: Remove the label from the can of sweetened condensed milk, ensuring no paper remnants remain.
- Set Up: Place the unopened can on its side in the bottom of your slow cooker. You can fit a few cans if you want to make a larger batch.
- Add Water: Fill the slow cooker with water, ensuring the cans are fully submerged by at least 2 inches.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker to ‘Low’ and let it work its magic for 8 hours.
- Cool Down: Using tongs, carefully remove the can—it will be incredibly hot. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before opening. This cooling process thickens the caramel to that perfect, spoonable consistency.
- Enjoy: Once cooled, open the can to reveal your homemade caramel. Drizzle it over a warm brownie, use it as a pancake topping, layer it in trifles, swirl it into cheesecakes, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful!
Variations & Tips:
- Lighter Caramel: Cook for 6 hours for a lighter caramel.
- Safety First: Never open the can while it’s still hot to avoid burns.
- Make Ahead: Cook several cans at once and store them (unopened) in the pantry for future use.
- Flavor Boost: After cooling, stir in a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist or add a half teaspoon of vanilla extract for a vanilla-caramel fusion.
- Quick Version: Use a pressure cooker to make this caramel in about 40 minutes, following your pressure cooker manual for safety instructions.
Endless Possibilities
This caramel is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over apple slices, use it as a decadent dip for pretzels, or make it a must-have addition to any ice cream sundae. Your imagination is the limit!
So go ahead, indulge in the magic of this simple yet luxurious treat. Happy cooking!