Manjar Blanco — South American milk caramel
Manjar blanco is the South American Spanish-speaking name for milk caramel: condensed milk and sugar slowly cooked to a thick, dark-amber paste. It is essentially the same as Argentine dulce de leche and Mexican cajeta — names vary by country.
i. Origin & history
Manjar blanco arrived with the Spanish colonisation of the Americas. The Peruvian and Chilean versions are particularly associated with the cake fillings of these countries. The name ("white delicacy") is misleading — the colour is mahogany.
ii. Ingredients
Makes 24 servings · scroll the side panel to adjust
- 1 litre whole milk
- 300 g sugar
- 1 vanilla pod
- ½ tsp baking soda (gives the deep colour)
- Pinch salt
iii. Method
- Combine milk, sugar, vanilla and salt in a wide heavy pan.
- Bring to a simmer; whisk in baking soda — the mixture will foam dramatically.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for 60-90 minutes — the mixture will reduce by two-thirds, deepen to a glossy caramel colour, and thicken to coat the back of a spoon heavily.
- Cool slightly; transfer to a jar. The manjar will firm further as it cools.
iv. Tips & common mistakes
- Use the freshest ingredients you can. The recipe relies on them.
- Read the method through first. Several steps must be ready in advance.
- Season patiently. Sweetness and salt are tuned at the end, not the start.
v. Variations
Essentially identical to dulce de leche under another regional name. Mexican cajeta uses goat's milk for a sharper flavour. Chilean manjar is often slightly thicker. Modern condensed-milk version simmers a tin of condensed milk in water for 3 hours.
vi. Common questions
What is manjar blanco?
Manjar Blanco is south american milk caramel, from latin american cuisine. It is essentially the same as Argentine dulce de leche and Mexican cajeta — names vary by country
Where is manjar blanco from?
Manjar Blanco is from the latin american dessert tradition; the recipe and history are detailed above.
How long does manjar blanco keep?
See the storage note in the Quick facts panel: 1 month refrigerated.