How to Make Caramel: A Guide to Crafting Velvety Goodness from Condensed Milk

Caramel, with its rich and indulgent flavour, has the power to elevate desserts and treats to a whole new level. Have you ever tasted an apple crumble pie with caramel sauce? You can’t explain that exquisite velvety goodness over the crunchy pie. 

One of the easiest and most satisfying ways to make caramel sauce is by transforming sweetened condensed milk into a luscious concoction right on your stovetop. In this guide, we'll walk you through the simple steps to create your own homemade caramel that's sure to impress your friends and family. So, don your apron and let's dive into the world of homemade caramel goodness!

How to make caramel from condensed milk

Condensed milk caramel, often referred to as dulce de leche, offers a heavenly combination of sweetness and depth. This silky treat is perfect for drizzling over ice cream, dipping fruits, or spreading onto cakes and pastries. While the thought of caramel-making might seem intimidating, fear not – the stovetop method is both approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• A pinch of salt (optional)
• Water for boiling

Equipment You'll Need

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Can opener
• Heatproof jar or container for storing

Step-by-Step Guide: How to make caramel from condensed milk on the stove

Step 1: Gathering Supplies

Make sure you have all your ingredients and equipment ready. Quality ingredients and proper tools set the stage for a successful caramel-making experience.

Step 2: Preparing the Can

Using a can opener, create a small vent hole on the top of the can. This will prevent pressure buildup during the cooking process.

Step 3: The Water Bath

Place the unopened can in a medium-sized saucepan. Fill the saucepan with enough water to completely submerge the can. It's important to maintain a consistent water level throughout the cooking process, so keep an eye on it.

Step 4: Cooking the Caramel

Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. As the water heats up, the condensed milk inside the can will gradually transform into caramel. This process usually takes around 2 to 3 hours. Stir the water occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.

Step 5: Monitoring the Process

It's essential to be patient during this step. You'll notice the condensed milk changing color from pale to a deep, golden caramel hue. If you desire a salted caramel flavour, add a pinch of salt at this stage and stir gently.

Step 6: Cooling and Storing

Once the caramel reaches your desired colour and thickness, carefully remove the can from the saucepan using tongs or a heatproof glove. Allow it to cool at room temperature before opening. The caramel will continue to thicken as it cools. Once cooled, transfer the caramel to a heatproof jar or container for storage.

How to make caramel with condensed milk without boiling

Making caramel with condensed milk without boiling it on the stovetop is a convenient alternative method. It is one way to make caramel from condensed milk quickly.

• Start by pouring a can of sweetened condensed milk into an oven-safe dish and covering it tightly with aluminum foil. 
• Place the dish in a larger baking pan filled with hot water to create a water bath. 
• Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, periodically checking for the desired caramel colour.
• Once achieved, remove the dish from the oven, let it cool, and transfer the caramel to an airtight container. 

This technique produces a rich caramel perfect for enhancing various treats.

Recipes to use your caramel sauce in

The options are virtually endless. Caramel complements a wide array of treats but here are some of our favourites:

Cascading over a pumpkin cake
Infused within a sticky date pudding
Employed as a delectable cake-filling
Integrated into homemade candy bars
Poured generously onto ice cream

Bonus recipe: How to make caramel fudge

If you're seeking a delectable treat that effortlessly marries sweet and creamy flavours, look no further than homemade caramel fudge. This delightful confection, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich caramel notes, is a testament to the harmony of simplicity and taste. Here's your step-by-step guide to creating this delectable masterpiece.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups of high-quality milk chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup of caramel chips or homemade caramel sauce

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare the Pan:
Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Combine Ingredients:
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.

Bring to a Boil:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, occasionally brushing down the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystallization. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; once it reaches 235°F (113°C), remove from heat.

Incorporate Vanilla and Chocolate:
Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the chopped milk chocolate. Mix until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Add Caramel Elegance:
Gently fold in the caramel chips or drizzle in the homemade caramel sauce. This introduces the luxurious caramel flavor that sets this fudge apart.

Pour and Set:
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then refrigerate for an additional 2-3 hours until the fudge is firm.

Slice and Savour:
Using the parchment overhang, lift the fudge from the pan. With a sharp knife, cut it into bite-sized squares.

Enjoy the sweet symphony of flavours as you share your homemade caramel fudge with friends, family, or simply your own sweet tooth.