Dulce De Leche

4 steps · 45 min total

1. 01

   Combine and Simmer

   In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, vanilla bean, and salt. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
2. 02

   Add Baking Soda and Cook

   Once the sugar is dissolved, stir in the baking soda. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture cook uncovered at a bare simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.

   Continue cooking for about 1 hour.

3. 03

   Continue to Reduce

   After 1 hour, remove the vanilla bean. Keep cooking, stirring more frequently as the mixture thickens, until it transforms into a deep, dark caramel color and reduces to about 1 cup. This can take an additional 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
4. 04

   Strain the Dulce

   Strain the finished dulce de leche through a fine mesh strainer to catch any solids or vanilla bean specks, ensuring a silky-smooth consistency.