Are you a fan of caramel? Do you love the rich, buttery flavor of dulce de leche (or dulce de leche-style treats)? Then you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up 22 mouthwatering dulce de leche recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your baking. From classic desserts like cheesecakes and brownies to sweet breakfast treats like pancakes and waffles, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of dulce de leche, highlighting some of the most delicious and creative recipes out there. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new treat to try, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Experience the rich flavors of South America with this creamy Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, infused with caramelized sugar and smooth dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Drizzle dulce de leche over the top of the cheesecake.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Dulce de Leche Brownies
A rich and fudgy brownie infused with the deep caramel flavor of dulce de leche, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
4. Whisk in flour and salt.
5. Stir in dulce de leche and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream
Experience the rich flavors of Latin America with this decadent dulce de leche ice cream recipe. Caramelize sweetened condensed milk to create a velvety, caramel-like sauce that’s swirled into creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Pour the cooled dulce de leche into the chilled ice cream base and whisk until well combined.
7. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (dulce de leche) + chilling time
Dulce de Leche Pancakes
Begin your day with a decadent twist on traditional pancakes, infused with the rich flavors of dulce de leche and topped with a crispy pecan streusel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons dulce de leche
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and dulce de leche.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
7. While pancakes are cooking, mix together melted butter and chopped pecans in a small bowl.
8. Serve pancakes warm with a sprinkle of pecan streusel on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Flan
This classic Latin American dessert is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a smooth, creamy custard base infused with the deep sweetness of dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar until dissolved.
3. Add dulce de leche and whisk until well combined.
4. Beat in egg yolks until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Cookies
Sweet and Buttery Dulce de Leche Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are filled with the rich flavor of dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup dulce de leche (see note)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Sesame seeds or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Precise the butter and sugars in a medium-sized bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the dulce de leche, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Dulce de Leche Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these rich and indulgent cupcakes filled with the sweetness of caramelized dulce de leche. Moist vanilla cake meets gooey, golden goodness in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling with dulce de leche.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding
This decadent bread pudding is infused with the sweet and caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its tender crumb and sticky topping, it’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cubed stale bread (white or whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
- Mix bread, sugar, dulce de leche, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, and melted butter. Pour mixture over bread mixture and stir until bread is evenly coated.
- Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dulce de Leche Muffins
Sweet and indulgent, these muffins are infused with the rich flavors of caramelized sugar and buttery goodness.
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, melted
– 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, dulce de leche, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dulce de Leche Crepes
Sweet Crepes with Dulce de Leche Filling Recipe
These delicate crepes are filled with a rich and creamy dulce de leche filling, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Dulce de leche filling (see below)
Dulce de Leche Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
3. Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan.
6. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional minute.
7. Fill with dulce de leche filling and roll up.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy dulce de leche tart, featuring a velvety caramel filling in 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, trimming excess.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and sea salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before pouring into the tart shell.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Pie
Sweet and rich, this Dulce de Leche Pie is a classic South American dessert that’s sure to impress. With a gooey caramel filling and a flaky pastry crust, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, then let cool slightly.
5. Roll out pastry dough to fit a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish. Fill with dulce de leche mixture and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Dulce de Leche Donuts
Get ready to treat your taste buds with these tender and scrumptious donuts filled with a rich dulce de leche filling. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dulce de leche filling (see below)
Dulce de Leche Filling:
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, egg, and salt; mix until smooth.
4. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Fry donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes on each side.
6. Drain excess oil and let cool.
7. Fill donuts with dulce de leche filling by poking a hole and piping the filling through.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dulce de Leche French Toast
Dulce de Leche French Toast Recipe
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and indulgent treat that combines the richness of dulce de leche with the fluffiness of French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Cinnamon or powdered sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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 per side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread 1/4 cup of dulce de leche on top of each French toast slice.
6. Serve warm, topped with cinnamon or powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dulce de Leche Churros
Treat yourself to a classic Latin American dessert with this easy-to-make Dulce de Leche Churros recipe. These soft, sugary fried dough pastries are filled with a rich, caramel-like dulce de leche and coated in cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dulce de Leche (see note)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Cinnamon, for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking until a smooth dough forms.
4. Pipe the dough into long strips and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and toss with powdered sugar and cinnamon to coat.
6. Serve warm with Dulce de Leche for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dulce de Leche Cake
This moist and decadent cake is infused with the rich flavors of dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread popular in Latin America. With its deep golden color and velvety texture, this cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add dulce de leche and beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dulce de Leche Truffles
Sweet Treats: Dulce de Leche Truffles
Create rich and decadent truffles filled with the caramel goodness of dulce de leche, perfect for a special occasion or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add softened butter to the cooled cream mixture and stir until melted.
4. Stir in dulce de leche until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
6. Roll the chilled mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
8. If desired, roll in chopped nuts before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Dulce de Leche Macarons
Dulce de Leche Macarons Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your macaron game with this decadent Dulce de Leche recipe, featuring a rich caramel filling and delicate almond cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup Dulce de Leche filling (see below)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 large bowl, whip egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add cream of tartar and mix well.
4. Gradually add sifted almond flour mixture to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden brown.
Dulce de Leche Filling:
Cook 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramelized and thickened. Let cool before using in macarons.
Dulce de Leche Waffles
Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with these rich and indulgent waffles, filled with the sweet and sticky goodness of dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh fruit and whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dulce de leche until well incorporated.
6. Cook waffles according to your iron’s instructions (about 4-6 minutes per batch).
7. Serve warm with fresh fruit and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for 4-6 waffles.
Dulce de Leche Pudding
Rich and creamy, this dulce de leche pudding is a sweet treat that’s sure to please. With the deep flavor of caramelized milk, it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (caramel sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and dulce de leche. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the edges are lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dulce de Leche Milkshake
A sweet and creamy treat that combines the richness of dulce de leche with the cold comfort of a milkshake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup dulce de leche
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the ice cream, dulce de leche, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the vanilla extract and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass or milkshake cup.
5. Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blending time only)
Dulce de Leche Banana Bread
Sweet and indulgent, this moist banana bread is elevated by the rich flavor of dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup dulce de leche
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, dulce de leche, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Conclusion
Get ready to indulge in the rich, caramel flavor of dulce de leche with these 22 mouthwatering recipes! From classic desserts like cheesecake and flan to sweet treats like cookies and muffins, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding a drizzle of dulce de leche to your pancakes or French toast for a morning treat, or use it as a topping for ice cream or brownies. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, these recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
