**Discover the Delightful World of Cajetas: A Culinary Journey into Mexican Caramel Candy**
Embark on a delectable adventure into the realm of Mexican confectionery with cajetas, a traditional caramel candy that has captivated taste buds for generations. Renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and smooth, chewy texture, cajeta is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own, used as a filling for pastries, or incorporated into various desserts. This article offers a comprehensive guide to making cajetas at home, featuring three distinct recipes that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From the classic "Cajeta de Leche" to the innovative "Cajeta de Membrillo" and the vegan-friendly "Cajeta de Coco," these recipes provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful cajeta-making experience. Whether you're a seasoned confectioner or a novice cook seeking a culinary challenge, this article will equip you with the knowledge and techniques needed to craft this exquisite Mexican delicacy. Indulge in the delightful world of cajetas and create sweet memories that will linger long after the last bite.
HOMEMADE CAJETA {GOATS MILK CARAMEL}
Provided by Willow at Will Cook For Friends
Yield 1.5 cups
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Place the milk, piloncillo, and cinnamon stick in a large saucepan (larger than you think you'll need), over medium to medium-high heat, reserving a small amount of goats milk to be mixed with the baking soda. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.
- Once simmering, remove the pot from the heat and carefully add in the dissolved baking soda and goats milk. The mixture will froth up violently, nearly doubling in volume. Once the bubbling subsides, return the pot to the heat, and bring it back to a steady simmer.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid has reduced and thickened (mine took about 1½ hours, but your time may vary depending on your stove and pot). Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot as you stir, and adjust the heat if necessary as the sauce reduces to avoid scorching. The cajeta is ready when it is the consistency of warm honey or maple syrup, and a rich golden color. Remove from the heat and let cool.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, and any other add-ins, if using. Pour into a jar or other sealed container, and store in the fridge for up to a few weeks.
- (The cajeta will thicken significantly as it cools, and once refrigerated will become quite firm. It can be softened again by placing the jar, without the lid, in the microwave for a few seconds, or in a shallow pot of simmering water.)
CAJETA CARAMEL FUDGE
Create the perfect combination of flavor and crunch with this homemade candy. Rich chocolate fudge layered with cajeta caramel, cashews and a sprinkle of sea salt-a recipe to impress.
Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Dessert
Time 4h15m
Yield 36
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Line 9-inch square pan with foil. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- In large microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips and condensed milk uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave 45 seconds longer; stir until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups cashews. Spread evenly in pan. Refrigerate 1 hour.
- In medium microwavable bowl, microwave white chocolate and cajeta uncovered on High 1 minute, stir. Microwave 45 seconds longer; stir until smooth. Spread evenly over fudge layer. Sprinkle with 1 cup cashews; press gently into caramel layer. Sprinkle with salt. Refrigerate about 3 hours or until firm. Cut into 6 rows by 6 rows. Store covered at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 180, Carbohydrate 21 g, Cholesterol 5 mg, Fat 1 1/2, Fiber 0 g, Protein 3 g, SaturatedFat 4 1/2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 100 mg, Sugar 18 g, TransFat 0 g
CAJETA (CARAMEL CANDY)
I was looking through an old Mexican cookbook I have and found this recipe. For those of you who have made Miss Annie's Chocolate Flan Cake without cajeta, please try it with. I have made it both ways and the cajeta is definitely richer. This is also called Leche Quemada (burnt milk), though, in fact, the milk is not burned, but cooked to a soft caramel. In addition to using for the cake, this can be spread on bread, biscuits or as a topping for ice cream.
Provided by PaulaG
Categories Sauces
Time 1h45m
Yield 4 cups, 20 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 quart of the milk with the sugar and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until mixture turns golden.
- In the remaining quart of milk, stir in the soda and place in another saucepan.
- Add the cinnamon stick and bring to boil.
- Discard the cinnamon and add the hot milk very gradually to the caramel mixture, stirring constantly.
- When all the milk is incorporated, place over a low heat and cook very slowly until the mixture is thick like melted caramel.
- Cool slightly; then pour into a glass container and chill.
- Please note that the cooking times and yield are approximate.
CAJETA
Provided by F. W. Pearce
Categories Milk/Cream Dessert Kid-Friendly Vanilla Chill Kidney Friendly Vegetarian Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free Kosher Small Plates
Yield Makes about 3 cups
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- In a large, heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and vanilla and place over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the dissolved baking soda. When the bubbling stops, return the pan to the heat, bring back to a simmer, and cook, stirring often, for 1 hour, or until the mixture starts to thicken and turn golden. At this point the cajeta will start to thicken fast, so don't leave the pan unattended. Continue to cook, stirring constantly so it doesn't burn or stick to the bottom of the pan, for another 20 minutes, or until the cajeta is a rich brown color and thick enough to coat the back of the spoon. It should cool to a medium-thick caramel consistency. If it's too thick, add a small amount of water; if it's too thin, continue to cook until thickened.
- Transfer to a container, let cool, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Warm slightly before serving. It will keep for about 1 month in the refrigerator.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.
- Stir the mixture continuously to prevent sticking.
- Be patient! It takes time for the cajeta to reach the desired consistency.
- If you are using a candy thermometer, remove the saucepan from the heat when the temperature reaches 225°F (107°C).
- If you are not using a candy thermometer, test the cajeta by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it is ready.
- Store the cajeta in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Cajeta can be used as a spread, a dip, or a filling for desserts.
Conclusion:
Cajeta is a delicious and versatile Mexican caramel candy that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in many different ways. So next time you are looking for a sweet and satisfying snack, give cajeta a try!
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