Are you a fan of rich, velvety caramel? Look no further! Dulce de leche, Spanish for “sweet of milk,” is a heavenly spread made by heating sweetened condensed milk to create a deep, golden sauce. It’s the perfect addition to any dessert, and today we’re celebrating its decadent delights with 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
From classic flan to cheesecake bars, cookies, and even pancakes, dulce de leche adds an extra layer of indulgence to any treat. And let’s not forget about the desserts – brownies, banana bread, ice cream, churros, and more! We’ve rounded up our favorite recipes featuring this sweet sensation, so grab a spoon and get ready to indulge in some serious dessert heaven.
Classic Dulce de Leche Flan
This beloved Latin American dessert is a rich and creamy masterpiece. With its caramel-like dulce de leche filling, this flan recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in egg yolks until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
Sweet and caramel-like Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. These bars combine the richness of dulce de leche with the creaminess of cheesecake, all wrapped up in a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (or caramel sauce)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add dulce de leche and confectioners’ sugar. Mix well.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dulce de Leche Stuffed Cookies
Sweet treats just got a whole lot sweeter! These soft and chewy cookies are filled with the rich, caramel-like goodness of dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade), for filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie and fill with about 1/2 tsp dulce de leche.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Dulce de Leche Brownies
Transform your brownie game with the rich flavor of dulce de leche! These fudgy, gooey treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dulce de leche (see note)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
5. Pour in dulce de leche and stir until smooth.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl (30-second intervals, stirring between). Fold into batter.
7. Pour mixture into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Note: Dulce de leche can be made by heating sweetened condensed milk over low heat or using store-bought dulce de leche.
Dulce de Leche Banana Bread
Elevate your banana bread game with this unique recipe that combines the classic flavors of caramelized bananas and dulce de leche. This moist and delicious loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, softened butter, dulce de leche, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Dulce de Leche Pancakes
Sweet and gooey Dulce de Leche Pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. With the richness of caramelized sweetened condensed milk, these fluffy treats will become your new favorite breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2-3 tablespoons Dulce de Leche (caramelized sweetened condensed milk)
– Maple syrup or honey for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Stir in Dulce de Leche until fully incorporated.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream
Rich and velvety ice cream infused with the deep flavor of dulce de leche, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the dulce de leche and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (mainly preparation time)
Dulce de Leche Churros
Experience the rich flavors of Latin America with these crispy and sweet churros drizzled with a decadent dulce de leche sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dulce de Leche Sauce (see below)
Dulce de Leche Sauce:
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Gradually add milk and mix until smooth dough forms.
4. Pipe dough through a star tip into long strips (about 6-8 inches).
5. Fry churros in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Drizzle dulce de leche sauce over warm churros.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 2-3 minutes
– Cooling and serving time: 5-10 minutes
Dulce de Leche Tres Leches Cake
This classic Latin American dessert is a showstopper, featuring layers of moist sponge cake soaked in dulce de leche, milk, and heavy cream. The result is an incredibly rich and creamy treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought), for soaking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter and eggs until smooth. Add milk and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before soaking with dulce de leche, milk, and heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including cooling time)
Dulce de Leche Chocolate Tart
This indulgent dessert combines the deep flavors of caramelized sugar, rich chocolate, and flaky pastry to create a show-stopping treat. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup dulce de leche (or caramel sauce)
– 8 oz dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream or confectioner’s sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together dulce de leche and granulated sugar. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth. Pour melted chocolate over dulce de leche mixture.
4. Fold edges of pastry up to create a crust. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool before serving with whipped cream or confectioner’s sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the rich flavors of dulce de leche and toasted coconut, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add butter, vanilla extract, and dulce de leche; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add coconut mixture to egg mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding
Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding Recipe
A rich and decadent dessert, this bread pudding is infused with the caramel flavors of dulce de leche and perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With its moist texture and gooey topping, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, heavy cream, dulce de leche, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dulce de Leche Alfajores
These traditional South American cookies are filled with a rich, caramel-like dulce de leche filling, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Dulce de leche filling (store-bought or homemade)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and milk; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling with dulce de leche.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Crepe Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping crepe cake, filled with the rich flavors of dulce de leche and topped with a lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 crepes
– 1 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Cook the crepes according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of dulce de leche on each crepe, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Stack the crepes, creating a tower shape, and top with whipped cream.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Dulce de Leche Mousse
A rich and creamy dessert that combines the sweetness of dulce de leche with the lightness of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (or caramel sauce)
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, whipping until smooth.
4. Stir in the dulce de leche and vanilla extract.
5. Whip for an additional 2-3 minutes to incorporate well.
Cooking Time: None!
Tips: Make sure to chill the bowl and beaters in the refrigerator before starting to ensure a light and fluffy mousse. You can also flavor with other extracts, such as almond or coconut, for added variety.
Dulce de Leche Caramel Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a decadent treat with this simple recipe for Dulce de Leche Caramel Apples. Rich caramel and gooey dulce de leche come together to create a sweet and sticky indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Dulce de Leche (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash and dry the apples.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and vanilla extract.
6. Dip each apple into the warm caramel mixture, coating about half of the apple.
7. Place coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle dulce de leche over the caramel-coated apples.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow caramel to set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dulce de Leche Thumbprint Cookies
Get ready to sink your teeth into these chewy, buttery cookies filled with a sweet and gooey dulce de leche center. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or a spoon.
6. Spoon a small amount of dulce de leche into each indentation.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Dulce de Leche French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent Dulce de Leche French toast recipe, featuring a rich caramel filling and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or Brioche bread
– 1 cup Dulce de Leche (or caramel sauce)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Cook French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, warm Dulce de Leche by microwaving it in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth and spreadable.
6. Assemble the French toast by spreading a layer of warmed Dulce de Leche on top of each cooked slice.
7. Serve immediately, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich and creamy world of dulce de leche with these 18 decadent recipes. From classic desserts like flan and cheesecake bars to sweet treats like stuffed cookies and brownies, there’s something for every dulce de leche lover. Try using it as a topping for pancakes or ice cream, or get creative with caramel apples and thumbprint cookies. Whatever your craving, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.