Dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who crave rich flavor with minimal fuss. It all started for me one chilly night in Toronto, when I craved something sweet, nostalgic, and just a bit indulgent. With a can of dulce de leche in hand and my Instant Pot waiting on the counter, inspiration struck. I whipped up this dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake, and the result was pure magic. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fancy enough for guests, yet is easy enough to make on a weeknight. Silky, sweet, and irresistibly creamy, this recipe is now a staple in my kitchen.
Dulce de Leche Instant Pot Cheesecake: A Creamy Delight Made Easy
- Total Time: 6 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
A luxuriously creamy cheesecake enriched with dulce de leche and made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This dessert is sweet, smooth, and beautifully balanced with a hint of caramel depth.
Ingredients
1 cup crushed butter cookies (Maria or graham crackers)
4 tbsp melted butter
16 oz cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 egg yolk
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
13.4 oz can of dulce de leche (filling)
13.4 oz can of dulce de leche (topping)
Sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Spray a 7-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and optionally line with parchment paper.
2. Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the pan. Freeze for 10 minutes.
3. Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then yolk, and mix well.
4. Add flour and dulce de leche. Blend until smooth.
5. Pour into crust and cover the pan tightly with foil.
6. Add 1 cup water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
7. Lower pan using a foil sling. Seal and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
8. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release the rest.
9. Cool cheesecake at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
10. Warm remaining dulce de leche and spread over top. Garnish with sea salt.
11. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Notes
Let cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Table of Contents
The Allure of Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Understanding Dulce de Leche
Dulce de leche, translating to “sweet milk” in Spanish, is a creamy, caramel-like sauce made by slowly heating sweetened milk until thick and golden. What makes it perfect for our dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake is its rich, toffee depth that balances beautifully with cream cheese. Unlike traditional caramel, which is made by melting sugar, dulce de leche has a softer, more complex flavor—ideal for swirling into cheesecake.
Why Use an Instant Pot for Cheesecake
The magic of a dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake lies not just in the flavor, but in the method. The Instant Pot creates a moist, steamy environment that cooks cheesecake evenly without the risk of cracking. There’s no need for a water bath, no need to peek in the oven, and cleanup is a breeze. It’s especially helpful for busy bakers or anyone new to cheesecakes. Once you try making this dessert with your pressure cooker, you’ll never look back.
Crafting the Perfect Dulce de Leche Instant Pot Cheesecake
Gathering Your Ingredients
To make a silky, rich dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. These pantry staples work together to guarantee every bite is luxuriously creamy and deeply satisfying.
- Crust:
- 1 cup of crushed butter cookies (Maria or graham crackers)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 13.4 oz can of dulce de leche
- Topping:
- Another 13.4 oz can of dulce de leche
- Sea salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Top and Chill
Warm the second can of dulce de leche until pourable and spread over the cheesecake. Sprinkle with sea salt, if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Prepare the Crust
Spray a 7-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment if you like. Combine cookie crumbs and melted butter, press the mixture firmly into the pan’s base and slightly up the sides, and freeze while you make the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Batter
Beat the cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and velvety. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each. Stir in the flour, then fold in the dulce de leche until fully combined. Pour the batter into your chilled crust and smooth the surface. Cover tightly with foil.
Cook in the Instant Pot
Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot and set the trivet inside. Use a foil sling to lower the pan onto the trivet. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 35 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then finish with a quick release.
Serving and Customizing Your Dulce de Leche Instant Pot Cheesecake
Easy Variations to Make It Your Own
Once you’ve tried the classic dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake, you’ll be tempted to experiment. Its rich base and caramel profile make it a versatile dessert that welcomes personalization. Whether you’re feeling creative or just want to change things up for a special occasion, here are some easy ways to reinvent it:
- Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted dark chocolate into the batter before cooking. Use a toothpick or skewer to trace soft swirls through the mixture for a visual twist.
- Nutty Crust: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the crust for a toasty crunch that complements the creamy filling.
- Spiced Kick: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg mixed into the batter brings warmth and enhances the dulce de leche flavor.
- Fresh Fruit Finish: Top slices with banana, figs, or berries for a bright contrast to the cheesecake’s richness.
Every twist keeps the heart of the dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake intact while bringing a fresh flavor dimension.
How to Serve It Beautifully
Presentation matters, especially for a dessert this stunning. Let your cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing—it softens just enough for that perfect creamy texture. For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut.
To serve, consider:
- A drizzle of warm dulce de leche
- A dollop of lightly whipped cream
- A few flakes of sea salt or crushed toasted nuts
Each addition elevates the experience and makes your dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake feel like a restaurant-worthy treat at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this dessert delivers joy in every bite.
Storing and Understanding Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
How to Store for Freshness
Your dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake stores wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead option. After it’s fully chilled and set, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: It will keep well for up to 5 days, staying creamy and flavorful.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
If you’re planning to add fresh toppings or fruit, do so just before serving to maintain the best texture and appearance.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, rewarding, and incredibly easy to make, look no further than dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake. It’s a beautiful blend of creamy texture and deep caramel flavor—all made effortlessly with the help of your pressure cooker.”dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake”
Whether you’re sharing it with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself to a well-earned slice, this cheesecake brings a sense of comfort and indulgence to the table. And with endless topping options and easy storage, it’s a dessert you’ll come back to again and again.
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FAQs
What is a dulce de leche cheesecake?
A dulce de leche cheesecake is a creamy dessert made with a classic cheesecake base enriched by dulce de leche a caramel-like sauce made from slowly heated sweetened milk. The result is a luxurious blend of creamy and toffee-like flavors in every bite.
What is the difference between caramel and dulce de leche?
Caramel is made by heating sugar, often with butter or cream, resulting in a slightly bitter, deep flavor. Dulce de leche, on the other hand, is made by simmering milk and sugar together. It’s smoother, creamier, and sweeter—perfect for recipes like this dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake.
Is dulce de leche the same as condensed milk?
They’re not the same, but they are related. Dulce de leche is often made from sweetened condensed milk that’s been heated until it caramelizes and thickens. While condensed milk is sweet and creamy, it lacks the toasty depth that makes dulce de leche so irresistible.
What can you do with dulce de leche?
Dulce de leche is incredibly versatile. Spread it on toast, drizzle over pancakes, stir into coffee, or bake into cookies and cakes. Of course, it’s at its best in a dulce de leche instant pot cheesecake, but it’s equally delicious with fruit, ice cream, or even by the spoonful.