Instant Pot Applesauce is an incredibly simple and satisfying recipe that transforms fresh apples into a deliciously smooth and sweet condiment in no time at all. This homemade applesauce captures the essence of autumn, offering a warm, comforting flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. It’s a versatile staple that can be used as a side, a dessert, or even an ingredient in baking. The best part? You can whip it up in your Instant Pot with minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and families alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this instant pot applesauce recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor is simply unbeatable—using a variety of apples allows you to customize the sweetness and tartness to your liking. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy homemade applesauce in just 15 minutes of active cooking. Plus, it fits seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles; it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be made without added sugars, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters. It’s an all-around winner for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone seeking a wholesome homemade treat.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your instant pot applesauce turns out perfect every time, here are some handy tips and tricks:
1. Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith.
2. Peeling: While you can leave the peels on for added fiber and nutrients, peeling the apples can create a smoother texture.
3. Add Spice: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a touch of nutmeg during the cooking process.
4. Consistent Chunks: Cut your apples into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
5. Use Apple Juice: Instead of water, you can use apple juice or cider for a richer flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Preparing applesauce in advance is a great way to save time. You can wash, peel, and chop your apples a day prior and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The apples stay fresh for up to 24 hours. Once cooked, homemade applesauce can be refrigerated for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep. Additionally, you can freeze applesauce in freezer-safe containers for up to six months, allowing you to enjoy the taste of fall year-round.
Recipe Variations
There are numerous ways to customize your instant pot applesauce:
1. Flavor Infusions: Experiment with flavors by adding vanilla extract, caramel, or even citrus zest.
2. Fruit Additions: Mix in berries, pears, or peaches for a unique twist.
3. Sugar Alternatives: Use maple syrup or honey to sweeten if you prefer a natural sweetener.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a spicy kick.
5. Cooking Methods: Don’t have an Instant Pot? You can easily make applesauce on the stovetop by simmering apples with water until soft.
How to Serve
Serving your homemade applesauce can be as simple or as elegant as you choose. A classic way is to serve it warm in a bowl, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for indulgence. For a more sophisticated presentation, serve it in small jars or dessert cups with a sprig of mint on top. Pair it with a slice of freshly baked bread or as a side to pork chops or pancakes for a delightful meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For the perfect pairing, consider serving your applesauce with a hot cup of chai tea or a glass of cold apple cider for a festive touch. If you’re enjoying it with a meal, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully. For dessert, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or in a warm apple pie for a comforting treat.
How to Store
Storing your leftover applesauce is easy. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in portioned amounts using freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the applesauce will expand when frozen. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you will need an Instant Pot. Alternatively, you can use a stovetop pot if you prefer traditional cooking methods, but it will take longer. A good peeler and a sharp knife will also help you prep the apples efficiently.
Dietary Adaptations
This instant pot applesauce recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. To make it healthier, you can reduce or eliminate the added sugar. For those with allergies, ensure any spices used are allergen-free. If you need a nut-free version, simply avoid any nut-based flavorings or toppings.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, you can use freshly harvested apples for the best flavor, while in the winter, opting for stored apples will still yield a fantastic result. You can also consider incorporating seasonal spices like pumpkin spice or nutmeg during the colder months for a cozy twist.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought applesauce? Yes, but homemade has a fresher flavor and you can control the sweetness and spices.
2. What types of apples are best? A combination of sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor—try Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith.
3. How long does it take to cook in the Instant Pot? It takes about 15 minutes of cooking time, plus the time needed for the pot to come to pressure.
4. Can I add sugar? Absolutely! Adjust the sweetness to your taste, but many find that the natural sweetness of the apples is enough.
Instant Pot Applesauce
Instant Pot Applesauce is an incredibly simple and satisfying recipe that transforms fresh apples into a deliciously smooth and sweet condiment in no time at all.
Ingredients
- 6 large apples (mixed varieties)
- 1/2 cup water or apple juice
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Apples: Wash, peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
- Add Ingredients to Instant Pot: Place the chopped apples in the Instant Pot. Add water or apple juice, and if desired, sprinkle in sugar and cinnamon.
- Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Set Cooking Time: Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and adjust the time to 5 minutes on high pressure.
- Cook and Release: Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Mash the Apples: Open the lid and mash the apples with a potato masher for a chunky texture or blend with an immersion blender for a smoother sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the applesauce, adding more sugar or spices as desired.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy warm or let it cool before transferring to storage containers.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 263Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 43mgCarbohydrates 69gFiber 9gSugar 54gProtein 1g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making instant pot applesauce is not only a delicious way to enjoy fresh apples but also a fun and easy project that anyone can tackle. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for any season and can be customized to suit your taste. So grab those apples, fire up your Instant Pot, and treat yourself to a homemade delight that you can enjoy with family and friends! Happy cooking!
