One-Ingredient Caramel (Dulce de Leche)

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 8 hours | Total Time: 8 hours 5 mins

Servings: 1 can of caramel

Turn a simple can of sweetened condensed milk into rich, golden caramel with this effortless slow cooker method. No stirring, no fuss – just delicious results every time.

Ingredients

1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

Remove the label: Peel the paper label off the can and clean off any residue.
Place in slow cooker: Lay the can on its side in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Add water: Fill the cooker with water until the can is covered by at least 2 inches.
Cook on LOW: Set to low heat and cook for 8 hours. For a lighter caramel, reduce time to 6 hours.
Cool safely: Use tongs to remove the can and let it cool completely before opening.
Enjoy: Open the can and stir the creamy caramel before using or storing.

Tips & Variations

Salted caramel: Stir in a pinch of sea salt after cooling.
Vanilla twist: Add 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract for deeper flavor.
Make ahead: Store unopened cooked cans in a cool pantry for several months.
Pressure cooker option: Cook in a pressure cooker for 35–40 minutes (follow safety guidelines).
Do not open hot: Always let the can cool fully before opening to avoid burns.