I would not have believed it if I did not try it myself, but you really can make Dulce de Leche by boiling a can of sweetened condensed milk! All it takes is a pot of water, patience, and a watchful eye.
No, but seriously though. Watch the water level like a hawk when you are heating the can of condensed milk. I read in so many blogs that this is dangerous and the can could explode if it becomes exposed out of the water. I added boiling water every 30 minutes over the course of 3 ½ hours to make sure the can was submerged in at least 1-inch of water at all times. After the simmering process, it is also important to wait until the can is room temperature before opening! Contents under pressure and heat could create a scary HOT mess if opened before it is cooled.
Although this is a time consuming process, the end result is exquisite. The lusciously rich and velvety caramel that emerges from the can is worth the wait and vigilance. The deep golden color alone made me emit a high pitch squeak! (I'll let you visualize that for a second)
I cannot wait to use this in an upcoming Valentine's Day treat! My celebrity crush, Paul Hollywood, is wholeheartedly the inspiration for it. Now the question is...will he be my Valentine?
INGREDIENTS
1 can sweetened condensed milk (preferably a solid can without a tab lid)
DIRECTIONS
Peel the label off the can and place it on its side in a large saucepan. Fill the saucepan with water until the can is submerged by 1 to 2 inches of water.
Bring the water to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to bring the water to a slow simmer. IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to watch the water level and add BOILING water every 30 to 45 minutes if the level of water is close to the top of the cans.
Simmer the can for 2 to 2 ½ hours for a lighter dulce de leche. If a deeper color and flavor are desired, simmer for 3 to 3 ½ hours. Using tongs, CAREFULLY rotate the can to the other side halfway through the simmering process.
Once the simmering time is complete, remove from heat and allow the cans to room temperature. IMPORTANT NOTE: DO NOT open the can while it is still hot! Let it cool completely before opening. You will be met with a scalding hot shower of dulce de leche if you open it while it is still hot.
Once completely cool, open the can, stir the dulce de leche, transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator up to 1 month.
