Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is a perfect fusion of indulgence and simplicity, combining the rich caramel notes of traditional dulce de leche with the smooth, velvety texture of homemade ice cream. Originating from Latin America, dulce de leche is made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until it transforms into a thick, golden caramel. This ingredient is cherished for its deep, milky sweetness, and when it’s blended into ice cream, it creates a decadent treat that’s impossible to resist.
This dessert is ideal for anyone who enjoys the comforting sweetness of caramel paired with the cool creaminess of ice cream. What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its accessibility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes as if it came from a gourmet ice cream shop. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the complexity of the flavor, while a pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness, elevating the overall experience. It’s an easy yet sophisticated dessert that will quickly become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups dulce de leche
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, dulce de leche, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes (churning) | Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is a deliciously rich and creamy dessert that blends the smooth, velvety texture of ice cream with the deep caramel-like flavors of dulce de leche. This indulgent treat is perfect for those who love a balance of sweetness and creaminess, with a luxurious mouthfeel that’s satisfying without being overly sugary.
Key Features of Dulce de Leche Ice Cream:
- Dulce de Leche: The star ingredient of this recipe, dulce de leche, is a sweet milk-based caramel that’s popular in many Latin American countries. It’s made by slowly heating sweetened milk until it caramelizes, developing its characteristic golden color and smooth texture. In this ice cream, it gives a rich and distinct caramel flavor that complements the creaminess of the base.
- Creamy Texture: This recipe uses both heavy cream and whole milk, which creates a luxurious, creamy texture in the ice cream. The high fat content from the cream ensures a smooth, soft consistency, even after freezing.
- Simple Ingredients: Despite its rich flavor, this recipe is incredibly simple, requiring only a few basic ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. The result is an impressive dessert that doesn’t require complicated techniques or ingredients.
- Customizable: This ice cream can easily be customized by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of extra dulce de leche. It pairs well with various toppings such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added texture and flavor contrast.
- No Fancy Equipment Needed: If you have an ice cream maker, you’re all set! The process involves simply whisking together the ingredients, churning the mixture in an ice cream maker, and freezing it for a few hours. Even if you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by freezing the mixture and stirring it occasionally to break up the ice crystals.
Serving Suggestions:
- This dulce de leche ice cream pairs beautifully with other desserts like warm brownies, apple pie, or as a topping for waffles and pancakes. It’s also fantastic on its own, served in a bowl or cone, especially during warmer months.
- For an extra-special presentation, serve it with a drizzle of melted dulce de leche or chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a contrast of flavors.
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream offers a delightful balance of sweetness and richness, making it a standout dessert for special occasions or simple everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a midnight snack, its irresistible flavor and texture will keep everyone coming back for more.
The simplicity of this recipe belies its impressive flavor. One of the most appealing aspects of Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is how the sweetness of the dulce de leche caramel infuses every bite. The rich and creamy base, made from a mixture of heavy cream and whole milk, delivers a luxurious mouthfeel that melts beautifully on the palate. The vanilla extract adds a subtle warmth to the dessert, complementing the caramel flavor without overpowering it. And though the ice cream is rich, it’s not cloyingly sweet, thanks to the balance achieved by the pinch of salt.
Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding swirls of extra dulce de leche for a more intense caramel flavor, or by incorporating textures like chocolate chunks, crushed nuts, or even cookie pieces. It’s also a dessert that works well with a variety of toppings, from fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries to classic additions like whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this ice cream offers endless possibilities for creative presentation and serving.
Conclusion:
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful blend of rich flavors and smooth textures that will make any occasion feel special. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day or as a sweet finale to a festive meal, this ice cream is sure to impress. Its luxurious caramel flavor, combined with the creamy base, creates a harmonious balance that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the recipe’s simplicity means that even novice cooks can create a dessert that feels gourmet.
For those who love a sweet treat with a bit of sophistication, this ice cream is a must-try. Its classic flavor profile appeals to a wide range of tastes, from kids enjoying a cone to adults savoring a scoop alongside a glass of dessert wine. The versatility of the recipe also means that you can tailor it to your liking, making it a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Whether you’re making it for a casual family gathering or a more formal event, Dulce de Leche Ice Cream will undoubtedly be a hit. The process of making it is rewarding, and the end result is a dessert that feels like a labor of love. So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, creamy, and utterly delicious, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed.