Looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in frozen form? Let me introduce you to Dulce de Leche Ice Cream. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with caramel flavor thanks to the magic of dulce de leche—a beloved Latin American sweet that literally means “sweet milk.” Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, this simple recipe will walk you through every step and leave you with a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
Quick Recipe Facts
Time:
- Prep: 5 minutes
- Freeze: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total: Just over 4 hours (but most of it’s hands-off!)
Servings:
Enough for 4–6 people. Need more? Double or triple it—just make sure your freezer space can handle the extra!
Skill Level:
Beginner-friendly. No fancy egg custards or special skills required.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Mixer (hand or stand)
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Freezer-safe container
No mixer? No problem. A whisk and some good old-fashioned elbow grease will get the job done.
Ingredients (What You’ll Need)
- 1 cup heavy cream (cold, at least 38% fat)
- 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- ½ teaspoon salt
A Few Substitution Ideas:
- No dulce de leche? Use caramel sauce, though it won’t be quite as creamy.
- Heavy cream is non-negotiable—low-fat alternatives won’t cut it here.
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, grab authentic dulce de leche from a Latin American brand or make your own at home (it’s easier than you think!).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make this together! Imagine we’re in the kitchen, sleeves rolled up, whipping up something delicious.
- Whip the Cream
Pour cold heavy cream into a bowl and whip it with a mixer until soft peaks form. You’re looking for a texture that’s fluffy but not stiff.
Heads up: Overwhipping will leave you with butter, not ice cream. Stop as soon as those peaks hold their shape. - Mix It All Together
Gently fold in ¾ of the dulce de leche, vanilla extract (if you’re using it), and the salt. Use a whisk and mix until it’s smooth and light brown.
What to watch for: The mixture should be creamy, light, and just thick enough to coat a spoon. - Swirl for Style
Pour the mixture into your freezer-safe container. Drizzle the rest of the dulce de leche on top, then swirl it with a spoon or knife to get those signature caramel ribbons.
Pro Tip: Don’t overmix—you want those swirls to stand out. - Freeze It
Cover the container tightly and pop it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the patience. - Serve & Enjoy
Before scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This softens it just enough to make scooping a breeze. Serve in bowls, cones, or straight from the container (no judgment here!).
Make It Your Own
Want to put your own spin on this delicious dessert? Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Add a pinch of spice: Stir in a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist.
- Fancy it up: Sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top for that irresistible salted caramel vibe.
- Mix-ins: Toss in chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even cookie crumbs for extra texture.
And if you’re feeling seasonal, pair this ice cream with fresh summer berries or a slice of warm apple pie. Trust me—it’s a game-changer.
Storage Tips (If You Don’t Eat It All at Once)
- Keep it in an airtight container in your freezer for up to 2 months.
- To prevent ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing it.
This Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is more than just dessert—it’s pure comfort in a bowl. Perfect for sharing at a party or enjoying solo with your favorite show. Ready to treat yourself? Let’s make it happen!
PrintDulce de Leche Ice Cream
This Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is a rich, velvety dessert that highlights the sweet, caramelized flavor of dulce de leche. With just four ingredients and no eggs required, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet indulgent enough to impress at any gathering. Perfect for summer days or as a decadent treat year-round!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (includes freezing time)
- Yield: 4–6 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Latin American-inspired
Ingredients
- 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream (38% fat or more)
- 1 cup (250 ml) dulce de leche (plus extra for swirling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredient Notes:
- Use high-quality dulce de leche for the best flavor. Store-bought or homemade both work well.
- Heavy cream must be cold for optimal whipping results.
Instructions
- Whip the Cream:
In a mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment until soft peaks form. The cream should hold its shape but still appear fluffy.
Tip: Don’t overwhip, as it may turn into butter. - Make the Ice Cream Base:
Gently fold in ¾ of the dulce de leche, vanilla extract (if using), and salt into the whipped cream using a whisk. Mix until fully combined and smooth. - Create a Marbled Effect:
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Drizzle the remaining dulce de leche on top and lightly swirl with a spoon or knife to create a marbled pattern. Avoid overmixing to keep the swirl intact. - Freeze:
Cover the container tightly and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm. - Serve:
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping for easier serving and a creamier texture.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in waffle cones, bowls, or alongside warm desserts like brownies or apple pie. Garnish with crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or an extra drizzle of dulce de leche for added indulgence.
Tips & Tricks:
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand to help whip the cream faster.
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before serving to create a salted caramel twist.
Storage & Reheating:
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To prevent ice crystals, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.
- No reheating needed; simply let it soften at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.