Dulce de Leche Milkshake

The Dulce de Leche Milkshake is a decadent and satisfying treat that captures the unique flavor of slow-cooked milk caramel. It blends creamy vanilla ice cream and milk with a generous amount of dulce de leche, creating a smooth, thick texture and a deep, sweet caramel taste. Perfect for caramel lovers, this milkshake is an indulgent beverage that serves as both a drink and a dessert in one glass.
Dulce de Leche Milkshake

Preparation

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

This beverage is classified as a milkshake, a sweet, cold drink made by blending milk, ice cream, and flavorings. It falls squarely into the dessert drink category, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or as a standalone treat.

Serving

Serve this non-alcoholic milkshake very cold in a tall, chilled milkshake glass to maintain its thick consistency. It's a substantial drink, best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
Serving size
Approximately 350-400 ml (12-14 oz)
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Milkshake Glass
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

While the milkshake is a modern American invention, its key ingredient, dulce de leche, has a rich history in Latin America, with origins claimed by several countries including Argentina and Uruguay. This recipe is a delightful fusion of cultures, combining the classic American milkshake format with the beloved Latin American confection. It's a tribute to the universal love for sweet, creamy, and caramel flavors.
Origin
The concept of the milkshake originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The specific Dulce de Leche Milkshake is a more recent creation, popularized globally as the flavor of dulce de leche gained international recognition. It has no single point of origin but is a natural evolution in dessert culture.

Dulce de Leche Milkshake

The drink is primarily known as a Dulce de Leche Milkshake. Alternative names like Caramel Milkshake or Milk Caramel Shake are sometimes used, referencing the key flavor component, though "dulce de leche" specifically refers to the Latin American-style slow-cooked milk caramel.
Original name
Dulce de Leche Milkshake
Alternative names
  • Caramel Milkshake
  • Milk Caramel Shake

Characteristics overview

This milkshake boasts a dominant sweet caramel flavor and aroma, with a thick, velvety texture. Its creamy beige color is visually appealing, offering a rich and indulgent experience with no fizziness.
Flavor
Caramel, sweet, creamy, milky, rich, vanilla
Aroma
Sweet caramel, vanilla, dairy
Taste balance
Sweet
Aftertaste
Lingering, sweet, caramel
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Creamy beige, light brown, opaque
Texture
Thick, smooth, creamy, velvety
Seasonality
All-season treat, particularly refreshing in warmer months

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor profile is intensely sweet and creamy, with no alcohol, spice, or carbonation. A hint of saltiness from the dulce de leche can balance the profound sweetness.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

You'll need vanilla ice cream, whole milk, and dulce de leche as the core ingredients for this milkshake. A dash of vanilla extract is optional but recommended to enhance the flavor.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream3 large scoops
    A good quality, creamy vanilla ice cream works best as a neutral base.
  • Whole Milk120 ml (4 oz)
    Adjust quantity for desired thickness. Plant-based milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version, though this will alter the taste.
  • Dulce de Leche60 ml / 4 tablespoons (2 oz)
    Use a good quality, thick dulce de leche. More can be used for garnish.
  • Vanilla Extract2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon(optional)
    Enhances the vanilla notes and complements the caramel flavor.

Ice type

  • None

Mixing equipments

The only essential piece of equipment for this recipe is a sturdy blender capable of handling ice cream.
  • Blender: To combine and emulsify all ingredients into a smooth, thick shake.

Instructions

To prepare, simply combine ice cream, milk, and dulce de leche in a blender until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and finish with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle.
1. Place your serving glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to chill.
2. In the pitcher of a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, dulce de leche, and optional vanilla extract.
3. Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if necessary and blend again.
4. Pour the milkshake into your pre-chilled glass.
5. Top with a generous amount of whipped cream and drizzle with additional dulce de leche.
6. Serve immediately with a wide straw and a long spoon.

Garnishing

Garnish lavishly with a swirl of whipped cream and an extra drizzle of dulce de leche for a professional-looking and even more decadent finish.
  • Whipped Cream: A generous swirl on top.
  • Dulce de Leche Drizzle: Drizzle extra dulce de leche over the whipped cream.

Dietary Information

This milkshake is vegetarian, alcohol-free, and caffeine-free, but it is not suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets. Check ice cream ingredients for potential allergens like eggs, soy, or nuts.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✕ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This is a highly caloric dessert drink, rich in carbohydrates and sugar due to the ice cream and dulce de leche. It should be considered an indulgent treat rather than a regular beverage.
Calories
Approximately 650-750 kcal / 2720-3140 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 80-95 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 75-90 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This milkshake is perfect as a decadent dessert after a meal, a special afternoon treat, or a refreshing cooler on a warm day. It's also a great way to celebrate a special occasion with a simple yet luxurious beverage.
  • Dessert
  • Afternoon Treat
  • Summer Cooler
  • Celebration

Pairing suggestions

This rich milkshake pairs wonderfully with less sweet items that complement its caramel flavor, such as churros or simple biscuits. For a contrast, a strong, bitter coffee can cut through the sweetness, creating a delightful balance for an afternoon treat.
  • Churros
  • Plain shortbread cookies or biscotti
  • A cup of black coffee or espresso

The Decadent Dulce de Leche Milkshake Experience

The Dulce de Leche Milkshake is the epitome of a decadent dessert drink. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a blender. The result is a velvety smooth, thick, and creamy shake bursting with the deep, sweet flavor of authentic milk caramel. While high in calories and sugar, it stands as a perfect special occasion treat or a satisfying way to indulge a sweet craving.

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