Making caramel from sweetened condensed milk in a slow cooker is a simple, nearly foolproof method that yields rich, velvety caramel with minimal effort. Unlike traditional stovetop caramel, which requires constant stirring and precise temperature control to avoid burning, the slow cooker offers a low-maintenance alternative. This technique uses consistent, low heat to gradually caramelize the milk, eliminating the risk of scorching and making it ideal for beginners. The result is a golden-brown, creamy caramel perfect for desserts, beverages, and baked goods.
Benefits of the Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker’s steady, low-temperature environment ensures even caramelization without constant monitoring. This reduces stress compared to stovetop methods, where burning is a common issue. The process is forgiving, requiring only basic equipment and patience, making it accessible to anyone. It also allows for batch preparation, as multiple cans or jars can be cooked simultaneously, saving time for busy home cooks.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make slow cooker caramel, you need minimal supplies: sweetened condensed milk, a slow cooker, water, heatproof glass jars or the cans themselves, tongs or a slotted spoon, and a towel for handling hot containers. Sweetened condensed milk, with its sugar and milk solids, caramelizes naturally under prolonged heat, requiring no additional ingredients. This simplicity keeps costs low while delivering a high-quality product.
Preparation Options
You can cook the condensed milk in its original can or transfer it to glass jars. Cooking in cans is straightforward but requires removing labels and ensuring full submersion in water to prevent pressure buildup. Jars offer visibility into the caramel’s color and texture, eliminating concerns about can safety. For jars, pour the milk evenly, seal tightly, and place upright in the slow cooker. For cans, lay them on their sides for uniform cooking.
Setting Up the Slow Cooker
Place jars or cans in the slow cooker and fill with water, ensuring containers are submerged by at least an inch to maintain even heat distribution. Set the slow cooker to low heat. Cooking for 8 to 10 hours produces a deep, golden caramel, while 6 to 7 hours yields a lighter shade. The low setting ensures gradual thickening, enhancing flavor without burning.
Monitoring the Process
The slow cooker requires little oversight, but occasional checks are necessary. Monitor water levels, adding hot water if evaporation lowers it below the containers. Avoid opening jars or cans during cooking, as this disrupts caramelization and may affect texture. If using jars, place a towel at the slow cooker’s base to prevent rattling and ensure stability during the long cooking process.
Cooling and Storage
After cooking, turn off the slow cooker and let the water cool slightly. Use tongs to remove jars or cans, placing them on a heatproof surface. Cans need at least two hours to cool before opening to avoid burns from pressure. Jars can be checked once at room temperature. Store cooled caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it remains fresh for up to two weeks. Reheat gently before use if a smoother consistency is desired.
Uses for Homemade Caramel
This versatile caramel enhances a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over ice cream for a decadent dessert, blend it into coffee or lattes for a sweet twist, or spread it on toast, waffles, or pancakes for a rich breakfast. It pairs well as a dip for apple slices or pretzels, balancing sweet and salty flavors. Incorporate it into baked goods like cookies, brownies, or cheesecakes for added indulgence, elevating both homemade and store-bought treats.
Tips for Success
Ensure containers remain fully submerged to prevent uneven cooking or safety issues. Use high-quality sweetened condensed milk for the best flavor. If making multiple batches, stagger cooking times to test different caramel shades. For a thicker consistency, extend cooking slightly, but avoid exceeding 10 hours to prevent over-darkening. Clean jars or cans thoroughly post-cooking to avoid residue buildup.
Conclusion
The slow cooker method for making caramel from sweetened condensed milk is a game-changer for home cooks. Its simplicity, minimal ingredient list, and hands-off approach make it an ideal choice for creating rich, creamy caramel. Whether used as a topping, dip, or baking ingredient, this caramel adds a luxurious touch to countless recipes. With proper setup, monitoring, and storage, anyone can master this technique and enjoy homemade caramel with ease.
