Arequipe
Colombian Dulce de Leche
Arequipe is the Colombian version of dulce de leche, a rich, creamy, and intensely sweet caramelized milk spread. It's a staple in Colombian desserts and enjoyed on its own.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 liter (about 4 cups) Whole milk
- 300g (about 1.5 cups) Granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Combine the milk, sugar, and baking soda in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. A heavy pot is crucial to prevent scorching. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, just enough to maintain a very gentle simmer. The mixture should barely bubble.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 3
Simmer uncovered, stirring very frequently (every 5-10 minutes initially, and more often as it thickens) to prevent sticking and burning. Scrape the bottom and sides of the pot regularly. You will notice the mixture gradually reducing in volume and changing color.
⏱️ 2 - 3 hours - 4
Continue to simmer and stir until the arequipe reaches a thick, pourable consistency and a rich caramel or deep amber color. A good test is to drop a small amount onto a cold plate; it should hold its shape slightly without spreading too much. The total cooking time will vary depending on your stove and pot.
⏱️ Included in cook time - 5
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract. Be careful, as it may steam up. Continue stirring for a minute or two as it cools slightly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Pour the hot arequipe into a clean, sterilized glass jar or airtight container. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before covering. As it cools, it will thicken further.
⏱️ 2-3 hours (cooling)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a pot that is at least 3-4 times the volume of the initial ingredients to prevent boil-overs.
- ✓Stirring is paramount to prevent the milk solids from burning and creating an off-flavor.
- ✓Patience is key! The slow reduction and caramelization process is what gives arequipe its characteristic flavor and texture.
- ✓Arequipe can be used as a spread on toast, crackers, or arepas, as a filling for cakes and pastries, or enjoyed by the spoonful.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a quicker version, use sweetened condensed milk (about 2 cans) and simmer until thickened and caramelized, which takes significantly less time (around 1-2 hours).
- Add a shot of espresso or instant coffee to the milk mixture in step 1 for a coffee-flavored arequipe.