Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
If you’ve ever wished for a fuss-free treat that captures the essence of autumn in a bowl, Instant Pot Applesauce is about to become your go-to comfort food. This recipe brings out the very best in fresh apples, coaxing them into a velvety, warmly spiced sauce with just a handful of ingredients and practically zero effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepper, or simply a lover of all things apple, this is one dish you’ll want to keep on repeat. The Instant Pot does all the hard work, leaving you with a kitchen filled with irresistible aroma—and a batch of homemade applesauce that tastes anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Applesauce:
- 4 pounds apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How to Make Instant Pot Applesauce
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples into roughly equal pieces. You don’t have to be too precise—it’s all going into the pot! Using a mix of apple varieties makes the Instant Pot Applesauce more interesting, so grab whatever’s freshest at the market.
Step 2: Add Everything to the Instant Pot
Place the chopped apples, water, sugar (if you’re using it), cinnamon, and lemon juice right into the Instant Pot’s insert. Give everything a good stir to combine, making sure the cinnamon’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select high pressure for 5 minutes. It may take a few minutes for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure—this is a great time to imagine that wonderful, spiced aroma already filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Natural Release, Then Quick Release
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the apples become even softer. After that, carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure and open the lid.
Step 5: Mash or Blend to Your Favorite Consistency
For that classic, slightly chunky applesauce, use a potato masher right in the pot. If you like things extra smooth, an immersion blender does the trick in seconds. Taste your Instant Pot Applesauce, and adjust the sweetness or spice if you’d like—everyone’s perfect applesauce is a little different!
How to Serve Instant Pot Applesauce
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the top, swirl in a spoonful of Greek yogurt, or finish with a handful of toasted walnuts. The color and aroma of these simple additions can really elevate your Instant Pot Applesauce when serving guests—or just treating yourself!
Side Dishes
Pair Instant Pot Applesauce with crispy potato pancakes, grilled pork chops, or use it as a bright, refreshing companion to oatmeal or pancakes at breakfast. The sweet-tart flavor is versatile, making it right at home alongside both savory and sweet dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering it into yogurt parfaits, swirling into overnight oats, or spooning over ice cream for a quick dessert. For parties, portion the applesauce into individual ramekins or mason jars, and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a rustic, Instagram-worthy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Instant Pot Applesauce to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week, so you can enjoy a spoonful (or more) every day—straight from the fridge or warmed up for a cozy treat.
Freezing
Want to save that orchard-fresh taste for later in the season? Freeze applesauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a bit of room at the top for expansion. It’s best to portion it into sizes you’ll use, so you can quickly thaw just what you need.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop the desired amount into a saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For a speedy option, the microwave works great too—just use short intervals and stir between bursts until it’s just right. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for Instant Pot Applesauce?
Absolutely! Combining sweet and tart varieties gives the applesauce extra depth. Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and even Granny Smith all work beautifully, so use your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeled apples make the sauce extra smooth, but if you like added texture (and a boost of fiber), feel free to leave the skins on. Just keep in mind the color will be deeper and the consistency a bit chunkier.
Can I skip the sugar?
Yes—you can make unsweetened Instant Pot Applesauce without any issue. Most apple varieties are naturally sweet, especially when cooked down, so taste your apples first and adjust to your liking.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No problem! A regular potato masher works perfectly for a rustic, chunky style. For a silky finish, carefully transfer the applesauce to a blender in batches—just be sure not to fill it too full and vent the lid to prevent steam buildup.
How can I use applesauce besides eating it as-is?
Instant Pot Applesauce is wonderful as a snack or side, but it’s also fantastic baked into muffins, cakes, or quick breads as a natural sweetener and moistener. Swirl it into yogurt, spoon over pancakes, or use as a topping for pork—so many possibilities!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made applesauce from scratch (or never tried Instant Pot Applesauce), you owe it to yourself to give this satisfying recipe a spin. It’s incredibly easy, endlessly adaptable, and sure to bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. Why not whip up a batch and let your kitchen fill with that irresistible, homey aroma?
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Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Instant Pot Applesauce that is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. This homemade applesauce is perfect for snacking, topping oatmeal, or serving alongside pork dishes.
Ingredients
Applesauce:
- 4 pounds apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Add the Ingredients: Add the chopped apples, water, sugar (if using), cinnamon, and lemon juice to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Natural Release: Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Puree: Open the lid and use a potato masher or immersion blender to puree the applesauce to your desired consistency.
- Adjust: Taste and adjust sweetness or cinnamon as needed. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
