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Instant Pot Dulce de Leche

Instant Pot Dulce de Leche

  • Makes
    1½ cups cups
  • Cook Time
    1¼ hours
  • Active time plus cooling
    10 minutes active

Dulce de leche, traditionally prepared by simmering and stirring milk and sugar for hours on the stovetop until the mixture is thick, jammy and caramelized, can be made hands-off and in less time by starting with sweetened condensed milk and pressure-cooking it in an Instant Pot. For a pourable sauce, perfect for dipping or drizzling, use the optional whole milk or coconut milk. Alternatively, omit the milk for a rich, thick peanut butter–like spread that’s ideal for filling cakes and sandwich cookies. The potential for customization doesn’t end there: For a little “spirited” complexity, stir in 2 teaspoons orange liqueur, bourbon or brandy alongside the condensed milk and salt. Or if you prefer to go the spice route, add one small cinnamon stick or two star anise pods before cooking, then remove and discard before whisking the finished sauce. The dulce de leche will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month, just bring to room temperature before using.

Ingredients
  • 14

    ounce can sweetened condensed milk

  • ½

    cup whole milk or coconut milk

  • teaspoon table salt

  • 2

    teaspoons orange liqueur, bourbon or brandy

Step 1

Place the steam rack in a 6-quart Instant Pot, then add 1 cup water. In a 3-cup stainless-steel bowl with a diameter of 7 inches or less, whisk together the condensed milk, whole milk (if using), salt and spirit or spice (if using). Cover the bowl tightly with foil and place it on the rack.

Step 2

Lock the lid in place and move the pressure valve to Sealing. Select Pressure Cook or Manual; make sure the pressure level is set to High. Set the cooking time for 1 hour.

Step 3

When pressure cooking is complete, quick-release the steam by moving the pressure valve to Venting. Press Cancel, then carefully open the pot. Using potholders, carefully lift out the rack and bowl and set on a heatproof surface.

Step 4

Let the bowl stand until cool to the touch, about 20 minutes, before removing the foil. Remove and discard the spice (if used). Whisk the mixture vigorously until very smooth. Serve warm or at room temperature.