Follow me and see how to make Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel in the slow cooker using only sweetened condensed milk, taking around 8 to 10 hours, It’s a straightforward, foolproof method.

To make Caramel in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply place unopened cans on their sides, cover them with water, and set your cooker to low for 8 hours. For darker caramel, cook for an additional 2 hours.

So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to create a rich and creamy caramel, this method is perfect. Just set it before work, and come home to a sweet treat!

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Can I use any brand of sweetened condensed milk for this caramel recipe?

Yes, you can use any brand of sweetened condensed milk. The key is to ensure it’s sweetened and condensed, as this consistency and sugar content are crucial for creating the caramel. For example, brands like Eagle Brand or Nestlé will work perfectly.

Slow Cooker Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel Ingredients

• 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk (395g or 14 oz each)

How To Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare your slow cooker: Place the unopened cans of sweetened condensed milk on their sides in the slow cooker. There’s no need to remove the labels.
2. Add water: Fill the slow cooker with hot tap water until the level reaches about 5 cm (2 inches) above the cans. This ensures even heating and prevents hot spots.
3. Set to cook: Turn your slow cooker on to the low setting and let it run for 8 hours.
4. For darker caramel: If you prefer a deeper, richer caramel flavor, continue cooking on low for an additional 2 hours.
5. Remove and cool: Carefully remove the cans with tongs to avoid any burns. Remember, the cans will be very hot.
6. Cool the cans: To prevent the caramel from continuing to cook or the cans from bursting, submerge them in cold water. This stops the cooking process and brings the cans to a safer temperature. It should take about 10 minutes or so.
7. Open the cans: Once completely cool, wipe them dry and open them to reveal your caramel.

Recipe Tips

• Temperature check: To ensure even cooking, use a slow cooker with a reliable low-heat setting, as overheating can spoil the texture of the caramel.
• Water level watch: Always keep the water level at least 2 inches above the cans to prevent any risk of the cans being exposed to air, which could cause them to burst.
• Removing labels: While not necessary, removing the can labels can help keep your slow cooker cleaner by preventing any adhesive or paper from detaching during cooking.
• Safety first: When handling the hot cans, use tongs and wear kitchen gloves to protect your hands from burns and to give you a better grip.
• Quick cooling: If you’re in a rush, replacing the cold water around the cooling cans a couple of times can speed up the cooling process significantly.

Is it safe to leave the slow cooker unattended while the caramel is cooking?

It is generally safe to leave your slow cooker unattended while the caramel cooks on the low setting. However, ensure your slow cooker is in good working condition and placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Many users do this without issue.

How can I tell when the caramel is done cooking?

The caramel is typically done after eight hours of cooking on low heat, which results in a rich, golden color. If you prefer a darker, deeper caramel, extending the cooking time to ten hours can achieve this. Just keep an eye on the color through a glass lid if possible.

Recipe Variations

• Vanilla bean caramel: Stir a split vanilla bean into the water around the cans before cooking to infuse a subtle vanilla flavor into your caramel.
• Salted caramel delight: After opening the cooked cans, stir in a teaspoon of coarse sea salt for a popular salted caramel twist that enhances the sweet flavor.
• Chocolate caramel fusion: Mix in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder after opening the cans for a rich chocolate caramel, perfect as a topping for desserts.
• Coffee-infused caramel: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the water to lend a mocha flavor to the caramel, ideal for coffee lovers.
• Spiced caramel treat: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice added after cooking can provide a warm, spicy note, making it perfect for fall desserts.

What To Serve With Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel

Serve this creamy caramel with slices of fresh apple, pretzel sticks, and shortbread cookies for dipping. It’s also great with banana bread or poured-over-pound cake.

Try it with baked pears for a unique dessert. I highly suggest adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast.

How To Store Leftover Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel

In The Fridge:

Store the caramel in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It should be refrigerated and can last up to two weeks. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent the caramel from absorbing other flavors from the fridge. I always make sure it’s covered tightly to maintain its best quality.

In The Freezer:

Sweetened condensed milk caramel should not be stored in the freezer. Freezing can change its texture, making it grainy and separating the components. If I were you, I’d avoid freezing to preserve the smooth, creamy consistency we all love in caramel.

How To Reheat Leftover Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel

To reheat caramel, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until it’s warm and pourable. You could also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Make sure it reaches a smooth consistency for the best results.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Suet Pudding
• Slow Cooker Baileys Fudge
• Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Banana Bread