There’s something irresistibly fun about indulging in sweet treats, especially when they come with a cultural twist! I recently discovered the delightful world of Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy, a delectable nod to the viral sensation of “Squid Game.” With just two simple ingredients, this candy transforms into an airy, toffee-like treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. The best part? You can whip it up in just 15 minutes!
Imagine the joy of creating these crispy, golden delights that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also spark conversation among friends and family. Whether you’re joining the Dalgona challenge trending on social media or simply looking for a quick and enjoyable dessert, this recipe will be your new go-to. Let’s dive into this delightful candy that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat!
Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy
Simplicity: This recipe requires just two ingredients and under 15 minutes of your time, making it perfect for busy days.
Fun to Make: Engage in the process of whipping up a treat that’s light and crispy, bringing excitement to your kitchen.
Cultural Twist: Inspired by “Squid Game,” this candy offers a taste of popular culture and unique Korean flavors to share with friends.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its beautiful golden hue and satisfying crunch make it an ideal party snack that is sure to impress everyone.
Versatile: Experiment with flavors or shapes, and even join the social media Dalgona challenge for added fun! Try pairing it with your favorite dessert or beverage for a delightful treat.
Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Ingredients
Get ready to make this delightful treat!
- For the Candy Base
- Sugar – Use granulated white sugar for the best sweetness and texture.
- Baking Soda – Make sure it’s fresh, as this ingredient creates the airy puffiness that defines Dalgona Candy.
This Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy is a breeze to make and is sure to bring joy to your taste buds!
How to Make Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy
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Prepare Instant Pot: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “sauté” function. This sets the stage for a quick and efficient candy-making experience.
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Mix Ingredients:
- Add ¼ cup (50 g) sugar to the pot, stirring continuously for a few minutes until a thick mixture forms.
- Once the sugar has melted, add 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda and mix thoroughly. Watch closely as it transforms to a beautiful golden hue—this is when magic happens!
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Shape Mixture: Quickly pour the mixture into a silicone mold. Be swift here; the candy will start to harden as it cools.
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Cut Shapes: Once the mixture has set a bit, use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes. Optional: Get creative by adding festive designs for special occasions!
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Cool and Enjoy: Allow your Dalgona Candy to cool and harden completely. Then, serve it up and watch it disappear as everyone enjoys this delightful treat!
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate or sprinkle some sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the candy base by mixing the ¼ cup (50 g) sugar and 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda up to 24 hours in advance. Once mixed, store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to finish your Dalgona Candy, simply reheat the mixture slightly in the Instant Pot on the “sauté” function to soften it. Pour the mixture into molds, shape it, and allow it to cool completely. This method makes it easy to impress your guests with a lovely sweet treat whenever you need it!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy
Airtight Container: Store your Dalgona Candy in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crunchy and fresh for up to 1 week. Avoid humidity, which can cause it to become sticky.
Cool, Dry Place: Ensure the container is kept in a cool, dry place, as exposure to heat or moisture can affect the texture and overall quality of your Dalgona Candy.
Freezer Option: For longer storage, you can freeze the candy, though be aware that it may lose some crunchiness. Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating Tips: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, you can briefly heat the candy in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to revive some of the texture. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy
- Quick Action: Timing is crucial! Work quickly after adding baking soda to shape the candy before it hardens. Aim to pour into molds within 15 seconds.
- Mold Preparation: Use well-oiled silicone molds to prevent sticking. If the candy gets stuck, it may ruin the perfect shape you’ve created.
- Storage Solutions: Place finished candies in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. This will keep your Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy fresh for up to a week.
- Ingredient Check: Always ensure your baking soda is fresh. Old baking soda will not produce the right puffiness in your candy, resulting in a dense texture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with extracts like vanilla or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile of your Dalgona Candy!
Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy
Feel free to customize this delightful treat to suit your taste and occasion!
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Vanilla Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture for a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness.
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Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before it cools for a sweet and salty combination that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the hardened candy for a rich, decadent finish that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios to give the candy an exciting crunch and added flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for those who enjoy a bit of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Festive Colors: Use vibrant food coloring to create a rainbow of Dalgona candies that are perfect for birthday parties or special events.
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Coconut Delight: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that complements the sweetness and adds chewy texture.
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Fruit Infusion: Top the candy with dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, for a chewy, fruity pop that pairs nicely with the crispy base.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy?
Indulging in a whimsical treat like Dalgona Candy invites moments of joy and creativity, perfect for rounding out a delightful meal.
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Korean-Inspired Dessert Board: Create an enticing spread with fresh fruits, mochi, and tea-infused treats for a delightful contrast. The sweetness of the Dalgona Candy pairs beautifully with the fresh and chewy elements.
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Matcha Latte: The earthy notes of matcha highlight the sweetness of the Dalgona Candy, making for a harmonious blend of flavors that awaken your taste buds.
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Coconut Ice Cream: Creamy and rich coconut ice cream provides a luscious counterpoint to the crunchy caramel, elevating your dessert experience to new heights.
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Korean Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of Dalgona Candy, balancing its sweetness with bright, juicy flavors.
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Sweet Tea or Hibiscus Tea: The floral notes of hibiscus tea make for a lovely pairing, offering a delightful beverage that complements the candy’s airy texture.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The richness of chocolate plus the tartness of strawberries create a heavenly duo with the light and crispy Dalgona Candy for a satisfying treat.
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Spicy Korean Nachos: A play of flavors and textures—savory, sweet, and a touch of heat—makes these nachos a fun companion to your candy, stimulating taste buds through contrasting experiences.
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Korean Rice Cakes: Soft and chewy, these cakes create an interesting texture when served alongside crunchy Dalgona, enhancing the overall dessert palette.
Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Recipe FAQs
What kind of sugar should I use for Dalgona Candy?
Absolutely! I recommend using granulated white sugar for the best sweetness and the toffee-like texture that Dalgona Candy is known for. Other sugars may not melt and form the same consistency necessary for airy puffiness.
How should I store my Dalgona Candy?
To keep your Dalgona Candy fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to place it in a cool, dry area, as humidity can lead to stickiness.
Can I freeze Dalgona Candy?
Yes! You can freeze your Dalgona Candy if you want to extend its shelf life. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just keep in mind that freezing may cause the candy to lose some of its signature crunchiness.
What if my Dalgona Candy doesn’t puff up?
No worries! If your Dalgona Candy doesn’t puff up as expected, it might be due to stale baking soda. Always check that your baking soda is fresh before using. If it isn’t puffing enough during mixing, try adjusting the heat slightly or stirring more thoroughly to incorporate air.
Can Dalgona Candy be made vegan?
Absolutely! The ingredients for Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy—just sugar and baking soda—are naturally vegan-friendly. Enjoy this treat without any animal products!
Sweeten Your Day: Instant Pot Korean Dalgona Candy Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'sauté' function.
- Add 50 g sugar to the pot, stirring continuously for a few minutes until a thick mixture forms.
- Once the sugar has melted, add 1 teaspoon baking soda and mix thoroughly until it turns golden.
- Quickly pour the mixture into a silicone mold.
- Once set, use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
- Allow to cool and harden completely before serving.