Instant Pot Dulce De Leche

Dulce de leche is a sweet spread from Latin America. It is traditionally made by simmering milk and sugar on the stovetop for hours, low and slow. Variations of dulce de leche can be found throughout Latin America, each with its unique twist. The exact origin is hard to pinpoint, but what’s undeniable is the widespread love for this creamy caramel-like treat.

I started cooking sealed cans of sweetened condensed milk in large pots of boiling water on the stovetop (scary), then switched to my slow cooker (delicious but takes 8 hours). These days, I make Instant Pot dulce de leche! In about an hour, plus cooling time, you will have one of the most luscious, divine ingredients on the face of the earth. Try spreading it on these small-batch cinnamon rolls or these chai-spiced Rice Krispie treats. It’s also amazing drizzled on this Dutch oven apple crisp while still warm. I promise you will not regret it!

Ingredients For Instant Pot Dulce De Leche

Ingredient Notes

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is not the same thing as evaporated milk, so make sure to check the label before you buy. You can use any brand you want.

How To Make Instant Pot Dulce De Leche

STEP 1: Remove the paper label from the can of sweetened condensed milk.

STEP 2: Place a metal trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Set the sealed can on the trivet and fill the Instant Pot with water. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.

STEP 3: When the timer goes off, use the handle of a wooden spoon to gently nudge the floating steam valve to the pressure-release venting position.

STEP 4: Once all the steam is released, use a pair of tongs to carefully grasp the hot can and transfer it from the hot water to a wire rack. Cool completely before opening.

Expert Tips

1. Only cook one can at a time to reduce the risk of explosion.
2. Open the cooled can with a can opener rather than the key. It’s easier to get the dulce de leche out this way.
3. You can cool the can inside the Instant Pot, but the caramel will be much thicker and darker in color.

Recipe Notes

• Use a towel or oven mitt when handling the can immediately after cooking.
• Ensure the can is completely cooled before opening to prevent hot splatters.

Storage

• Store the dulce de leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It will thicken as it cools, so gently warm it before use if you need a pourable consistency.
• If you notice sugar crystals forming on the surface after storage, you can reheat the dulce de leche on low while stirring continuously until they dissolve.

Use Instant Pot Dulce De Leche With These Recipes