Get ready to indulge in a sweet and sticky world with these 20 decadent recipes that feature the rich, caramel-like delight of dulce de leche. From classic desserts like cheesecake and brownies to creative twists on breakfast favorites and savory treats, this collection has something for everyone who loves the deep, velvety flavor of dulce de leche.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of dulce de leche, exploring its uses in everything from sweet breads and pastries to creamy ice creams and drinks. Whether you’re a longtime fan of this beloved Latin American treat or just discovering its charms, these recipes are sure to inspire your inner baker and satisfy your cravings.
So go ahead, take the leap into the world of dulce de leche, and get ready to treat yourself (and others!) to a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, featuring a velvety caramel sauce infused into the cheesecake batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add granulated sugar, dulce de leche sauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
4. Bake: Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Cool: Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Banana Pancakes with Dulce de Leche Drizzle
Start your day off right with these fluffy banana pancakes topped with a rich and creamy dulce de leche drizzle. Perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the deep caramel flavor of dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Drizzle with dulce de leche and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with these decadent Chocolate Dulce de Leche Brownies. The combination of gooey dulce de leche and velvety chocolate will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dulce de leche (see note)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat; stir in cocoa powder until well combined. Let cool slightly.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Stir in flour, then dulce de leche and chocolate chips.
6. Pour into prepared pan; smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Note: To make dulce de leche, place 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown and caramel-like (about 10-15 minutes). Let cool before using.
Dulce de Leche Flan
A classic Latin American dessert, Dulce de Leche Flan is a rich and creamy custard base infused with the deep caramel flavor of dulce de leche. This simple recipe yields a smooth, velvety texture and a sweet, caramelized crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm cream mixture, whisking until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream
Dulce de leche ice cream is a rich and decadent treat that combines the smoothness of creamy ice cream with the deep, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. This recipe yields a batch of deliciously creamy ice cream 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-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the dulce de leche and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and pour it into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until the desired consistency is reached (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling
Alfajores are a classic South American cookie sandwich filled with dulce de leche, a rich caramel spread. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making these delicate treats from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before assembling with dulce de leche.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dulce de Leche Stuffed Churros
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent churros filled with a rich dulce de leche filling.
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 filling (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and 1/4 cup warm water.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into 2-inch wide strips.
7. Fry the churros in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and fill with dulce de leche while still warm.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Lava Cake
Moist, gooey, and utterly rich, this classic Argentine dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup (240ml) dulce de leche (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and melted butter.
4. Add vanilla extract and dulce de leche; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour egg mixture over flour mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Divide batter among prepared ramekins.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven; let cool in ramekins for 1 minute.
9. Run a knife around each cake to release; invert onto plates.
Note: Dulce de leche is caramel-like spread made by heating sweetened condensed milk. You can use store-bought or homemade dulce de leche for this recipe.
Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding
Rich and gooey, this bread pudding is a perfect treat for any occasion. Moist raisins and sweet dulce de leche sauce come together in a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup dulce de leche sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with dulce de leche sauce.
7. Sprinkle raisins on top and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dulce de Leche Macarons
Sweet and chewy macarons filled with a rich dulce de leche filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Food coloring (optional)
– Dulce de leche filling (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add cream of tartar and whisk.
4. Gradually add the sifted almond flour mixture to the egg whites, whipping until smooth.
5. If desired, add food coloring and mix well.
6. Transfer batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
Dulce de Leche Filling:
– 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine cream, sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
Cooking Time:
Allow macarons to dry for 30 minutes before baking for 15-20 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Dulce de Leche Swirl Brownies
These dense and decadent brownies are taken to the next level with a swirl of gooey dulce de leche throughout. The perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (250ml) dulce de leche
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
3. Whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Drizzle dulce de leche over the batter, using a spatula or knife to create a swirly design.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Dulce de Leche Milkshake
Get ready to blend your way into a caramel-filled heaven with this creamy and indulgent Dulce de Leche Milkshake! This rich treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, dulce de leche, milk, and heavy cream.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend until combined.
4. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This treat is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Enjoy your sweet and indulgent Dulce de Leche Milkshake!
Dulce de Leche Tres Leches Cake
This moist and decadent cake is filled with a rich dulce de leche filling, soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream), and topped with whipped cream. The perfect dessert for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
For the dulce de leche filling:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the cake: Whisk together dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients. Pour into prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Prepare the dulce de leche filling: Combine sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 10 minutes).
4. Assemble the cake: Let cake cool completely, then poke holes all over with a skewer or fork. Pour dulce de leche filling into holes.
5. Soak the cake: Combine evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a bowl. Pour mixture over cake, making sure it’s fully saturated.
6. Top with whipped cream (optional): Whip 1 cup heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread or dollop on top of cake.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dulce de Leche French Toast
Start your day with a sweet twist on classic French toast, infused with the rich flavors of dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and salt until well combined.
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. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, warm the dulce de leche in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it more pourable.
6. Assemble the French toast by placing cooked bread slices on a serving plate, then drizzle with warmed dulce de leche and sprinkle with powdered sugar (if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dulce de Leche Filled Donuts
These soft and fluffy donuts are filled with a rich and creamy dulce de leche, creating a match made in heaven. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating until smooth after each addition.
4. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Allow donuts to cool before filling with dulce de leche using a pastry bag or a knife.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the number of donuts)
Dulce de Leche Cupcakes
Rich, buttery cupcakes filled with the sweet and caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche, perfect for satisfying any dessert craving.
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
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with dulce de leche, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Dulce de Leche Mousse, made with caramelized sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the sweetened condensed milk in a heatproof bowl and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cooled caramelized milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Fold the whipped cream into the caramel mixture until well combined.
7. Spoon into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Dulce de Leche Tart
This rich and decadent tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion, featuring a caramelized dulce de leche filling nestled within a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and sea salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F (175°C) or forms a caramelized brown color.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter. Pour dulce de leche filling onto the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Crepes
Transforming classic French crepes into a sweet and indulgent treat, these Dulce de Leche Crepes are a delight for any occasion. With the rich flavors of caramelized sugar and butter, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Dulce de Leche filling (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh fruit or powdered sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and eggs.
2. Gradually add milk and salt, whisking until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and cook for 2 minutes, or until edges start to curl.
6. Loosen crepe with spatula and flip; cook for an additional minute.
7. Spread Dulce de Leche filling on top of crepe.
8. Roll up crepe and serve warm with fresh fruit or powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of crepes)
Dulce de Leche Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy panna cotta infused with the deep flavor of dulce de leche. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (see note)
– Fresh berries or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and softened butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Stir in kosher salt, vanilla extract, and dulce de leche until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of dulce de leche with these 20 decadent recipes. From sweet treats like cheesecakes and brownies to indulgent desserts like flan and ice cream, each dish is elevated by the caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. Try it drizzled over pancakes or swirled into milkshakes for a twist on classic flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or innovative, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this collection of dulce de leche delights!
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