Name: Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Varies
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: Sugar: ¼ cup Baking Soda: 1 tsp

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever been captivated by the magic of K-dramas or drawn into the delightful challenge of Korean street food, Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy is exactly the nostalgic sweet treat you need to try at home. This classic honeycomb toffee takes mere minutes to create, making it perfect for a spontaneous dessert or a fun family project. Using the Instant Pot ensures fuss-free, even heating, turning just a couple pantry staples into a melt-in-your-mouth confection with a charming, old-school crunch. Trust me, making this iconic candy in your own kitchen is as rewarding as it is delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy is that you only need two humble ingredients, but each plays a vital role in achieving that signature golden look and crunchy, toffee-like texture. Don’t underestimate the magic that happens when simple pantry staples come together just right!

Sugar: The star of the show! Choose white granulated sugar for the best caramelization and authentic flavor.
Baking soda: Just a pinch transforms melted sugar into that airy, light-as-a-cloud honeycomb with its satisfying crunch.

How to Make Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot

Start by turning on your Instant Pot and selecting the “sauté” function. This setting provides a steady, controlled heat source that’s ideal for melting sugar evenly, without the risk of burning it too quickly.

Step 2: Melt the Sugar

Pour the ¼ cup sugar directly into the base of the pot. Stir gently and continuously as it begins to melt, watching the crystals transition to a shiny, amber syrup. This is where the magic starts! Stir patiently to avoid lumps and make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Once your sugar is a rich, caramel color, immediately sprinkle in the teaspoon of baking soda. This is when the bubbling, frothy magic happens! Stir quickly and thoroughly so the baking soda is fully incorporated and the mixture turns light and airy.

Step 4: Pour and Mold

Act fast here: scrape the foamy candy mixture into a waiting silicone mold. The candy hardens promptly, so have your molds and any cutters ready before you start. Silicone works best because it handles the heat well and pops out the candy easily later on.

Step 5: Shape and Decorate

Before the candy sets completely, gently press your favorite cutter (hearts, stars, circles) into the surface. This classic step is what gives Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy its playful, nostalgic charm. Let the candy cool fully before unmolding and serving.

How to Serve Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy

Garnishes

To dress up these sweet disks, sift a light dusting of powdered sugar on top, or drizzle with a touch of melted chocolate for a modern twist. Even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance the caramel flavor, creating a lovely salty-sweet sensation.

Side Dishes

Pair Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy with rich vanilla ice cream, strong espresso, or a frothy dalgona coffee for a perfectly balanced dessert plate. The simple sweetness of the candy complements creamy or bitter flavors superbly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party treat, wrap each candy in colorful cellophane, or display them in a vintage cookie tin lined with parchment. You can also skewer them on little sticks to evoke classic Korean street food vibes—perfect for a game night or movie marathon!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent moisture from making it sticky. Layer parchment between pieces to stop them from sticking together.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t usually recommended for honeycomb-style candy, as it can absorb moisture and lose its signature crunch. If you must, tightly wrap the candy in wax paper and place it in a zip-top bag, but for the best texture, enjoy it fresh.

Reheating

Unfortunately, once set, Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy can’t really be reheated without melting back into syrup. If your candy gets too hard, try breaking it into crumbles and using as a crunchy topping for ice cream or yogurt instead.

FAQs

Can I make Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy without a silicone mold?

Yes! You can pour the hot mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and use a spatula to shape it before pressing your cutter. The silicone mold just makes removal extra easy and neat.

Is there an alternative to white sugar?

For authentic flavor and the right caramel texture, stick with white sugar. Brown sugar or others may not create the same airy honeycomb effect, but it’s fun to experiment!

Why did my candy turn out bitter?

This usually happens when the sugar is overheated or burned. Keep a close eye on the sugar as it melts in the Instant Pot, stirring gently until just amber and smooth.

How do I clean my pot after making dalgona candy?

Simply fill the pot with hot water and let it soak for a bit. The hardened sugar will dissolve, making clean-up a breeze.

Can kids help with Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy?

Definitely, but adult supervision is crucial—melted sugar gets extremely hot! Let kids handle the cutters and decorating once the candy begins to cool.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing quite as satisfying (or fun!) as making and sharing your own Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy. With just two ingredients, a little know-how, and your Instant Pot on standby, you’re ready to capture the crunchy, nostalgic charm of this beloved Korean treat right at home. Give it a try—the joy on everyone’s face after snapping that perfect honeycomb is truly worth it!

Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 15 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Varies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy recipe is a quick and easy treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With just two simple ingredients, you can enjoy this delightful confection in no time!

Ingredients

Sugar:

¼ cup

Baking Soda:

1 tsp

Instructions

Turn on the Instant Pot and press ‘saute’. Heat the pot.
Add sugar and stir for a few minutes until it becomes a thick mixture. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
Add baking soda and stir well to mix. The mixture will start to foam.
Pour the mixture into a silicone mold. Allow it to cool and set.
Make your favorite shape using a cutter. Let the candy cool completely.
Serve and enjoy 🙂 Indulge in this delicious homemade candy!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: Korean