Slow Cooker Caramel (Dulce de Leche)

1. Place two unopened cans of sweetened condensed milk in a slow cooker.
2. Fill the slow cooker with water until the cans are completely submerged.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-10 hours, depending on your desired level of caramelization:

   - 4-5 hours: Not much caramelization, still tastes like milk. Fluid and pourable.

   - 6-7 hours: Caramelization has started, light caramel notes, retains some milk flavor.

   - 8 hours: Caramel will hold its shape somewhat. Good for dips, spreads, and toppings. Medium caramelization flavor.

   - 9-10 hours: Caramel will hold shape if piped but is not hard. Deep caramelization notes. Excellent for filling cupcakes or fruit dip.

4. Carefully remove the cans from the slow cooker and let them cool completely before opening. Store any unused caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator.