Homemade Mexican Hot Dulce de Leche – Creamy, Caramel-Rich & Irresistibly Sweet Latin Comfort in a Cup

Homemade Mexican Hot Dulce de Leche – Creamy, Caramel-Rich & Irresistibly Sweet Latin Comfort in a Cup

Indulge in the ultimate cozy treat with this Homemade Mexican Hot Dulce de Leche — a luscious, silky-smooth beverage that blends the richness of caramelized milk with the warmth of traditional Mexican spices. This isn’t your average hot chocolate — it’s pure decadence. The dulce de leche infuses each sip with buttery caramel sweetness, while cinnamon and vanilla add warmth and depth. Perfect for chilly evenings, festive gatherings, or as a luxurious after-dinner drink, this recipe transforms a classic Latin dessert into a cup of liquid gold.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Servings: 2 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness
3 tablespoons dulce de leche store-bought or homemade
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt balances sweetness
Whipped cream or milk foam optional, for topping
Extra dulce de leche or cinnamon for drizzling
💡 Pro Tip: For a deeper caramel flavor use dark dulce de leche or make your own by simmering sweetened condensed milk until golden and thick.

Equipment

Small saucepan
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Mug or heatproof glass
Milk frother (optional, for creamy foam)

Method

Step 1: Warm the Milk

In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
Whisk frequently to prevent scorching.

Step 2: Add Dulce de Leche

Whisk in the dulce de leche until fully melted and incorporated into the milk.
Continue whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Flavor It Up

Add cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Stir gently and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes for the flavors to blend beautifully.
💡 Optional: Froth the mixture with a hand frother for that café-style creaminess.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish

Pour into a warm mug.
Top with whipped cream or milk foam, drizzle a little dulce de leche on top, and dust with cinnamon.
Serve immediately and sip slowly — pure caramel bliss!

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 2 days.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave — whisk to restore smoothness.

Do Not Boil: Overheating can cause milk to separate.

🥄 Variations

Spiced Mexican Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for sweet heat.

Mocha Dulce de Leche: Add a shot of espresso or strong coffee.

Salted Caramel Version: Sprinkle sea salt flakes over whipped cream.

Dulce de Leche Abuelita: Stir in 1 tablespoon Mexican chocolate for extra depth.

Coconut Caramel Latte: Use coconut milk for a tropical spin.

Vanilla Bean Indulgence: Use real vanilla bean for a rich, aromatic flavor.

Holiday Horchata Fusion: Combine half milk and half rice milk for a twist on horchata.

Iced Version: Chill and serve over ice with cold foam and a drizzle of caramel.

Cinnamon Stick Infusion: Simmer with a cinnamon stick instead of ground cinnamon for a smoother finish.

Boozy Caramel Nightcap: Add a splash of Kahlúa or rum for adults.

❓ 10 FAQs

What is dulce de leche?
It’s a caramelized milk confection made by slowly heating sweetened condensed milk until thick, golden, and rich.

Can I make dulce de leche from scratch?
Yes — simmer a sealed can of sweetened condensed milk in water for 2–3 hours (be sure it stays covered).

Can I use caramel sauce instead?
You can, but dulce de leche is thicker, creamier, and less sweet.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes — use oat, coconut, or almond milk and vegan caramel.

Can I use cinnamon sticks instead of ground?
Absolutely — simmer one stick and remove before serving.

Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce dulce de leche to 2 tablespoons or add more milk.

Can I make it ahead for parties?
Yes — keep warm in a slow cooker and whisk before serving.

Can I use evaporated milk?
Yes — it adds a thicker, creamier consistency.

Can I froth it like a latte?
Definitely — it makes it even more luxurious.

What pairs well with it?
Perfect with churros, cinnamon rolls, or buttery shortbread cookies.

🏁 Conclusion

This Homemade Mexican Hot Dulce de Leche is the ultimate comfort drink — creamy, caramel-rich, and infused with a hint of warm cinnamon and vanilla.

It’s indulgent yet soothing, simple yet elegant, and every sip feels like a hug in a mug. Whether you enjoy it by the fireplace, serve it for brunch, or pair it with dessert, this drink brings the magic of Mexican sweetness straight to your cup.