This recipe creates a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge with the rich, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. It’s a simple treat that requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan, brown sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (235-240°F or 112-115°C on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water; it should form a soft ball that flattens when you remove it from the water.
- Remove from Heat and Stir in Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and optional pinch of salt until well combined.
- Beat Until Thickened: Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the fudge mixture until it starts to thicken and lose its glossy appearance, about 5-7 minutes. If you don’t have a mixer, you can beat by hand with a wooden spoon, but it will take longer.
- Pour into Prepared Pan: Pour the thickened fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Cool and Set: Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. You can also refrigerate it for faster setting.
- Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is set, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut into small squares.
- Enjoy! Serve the dulce de leche fudge and enjoy its creamy, sweet goodness. Store any remaining fudge in an airtight container at room temperature.