Easy Spiced Dulce de Leche Recipe

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon stick, and fine sea salt over medium heat.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves, which takes about 5 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat temporarily and whisk in the baking soda; the mixture will foam up slightly, which is completely normal.

Return the pan to low heat and simmer uncovered for about 60 to 75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and turns a light golden-brown color.

Increase the stirring frequency during the last 15 minutes of cooking as the mixture thickens significantly, ensuring it does not stick or burn on the bottom of the pan.

Once the dulce de leche is thick, glossy, and has turned a deep amber brown, remove it from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick.

Stir in the pure vanilla extract, then let the sauce cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to clean glass jars.