Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:

• Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt if desired. Stir to combine.

Begin Heating the Milk:

• Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir the milk mixture constantly to ensure it does not burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.

Simmer Slowly:

• Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring frequently. The goal is to slowly heat the mixture until it thickens and turns a rich, golden brown.

Watch for Color and Consistency:

• The Dulce de Leche is done when it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency and has a golden caramel color. You can check this by dipping a spoon into the mixture—it should coat the spoon with a thick, viscous consistency.

Remove from Heat:

• Once the desired color and consistency are achieved, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it cool for 10 minutes.

Cool and Store:

• Transfer the Dulce de Leche into a clean, heat-safe glass jar or container and let it cool to room temperature before sealing.

Serve or Store:

• Dulce de Leche can be served warm or chilled and is great as a topping, spread, or filling. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.