The Ultimate Guide to Quick & Healthy Instant Pot Applesauce

Instant Pot Applesauce is a delightful and healthy snack or versatile side dish crafted from your favorite apples. The magic of the pressure cooker transforms this recipe into a remarkably quick and effortless way to create delicious homemade applesauce, free from artificial sweeteners and preservatives found in store-bought varieties. It’s the perfect solution for using up a bounty of fresh apples, whether from a fun-filled apple-picking adventure or a trip to your local market.

Homemade Instant Pot Applesauce: A Fall Tradition Made Easy

Every autumn, as the weather cools and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation, a cherished tradition in our household is apple picking. It’s an activity that brings so much joy, from the climb up the ladder to pluck the perfect apple, to the delightful crunch of a freshly picked fruit enjoyed right there in the orchard. My kids adore the experience, often sneaking a bite or two of their sweet spoils along the way.

Once we return home, our kitchen counter is inevitably laden with a generous haul of apples. While my family loves to snack on these crisp, juicy fruits throughout the week, I’m always looking for creative and efficient ways to transform them into even more delicious treats. That’s where today’s Instant Pot Applesauce recipe truly shines. It’s an incredibly quick and easy method to utilize those surplus apples, turning them into a comforting, wholesome delight.

Beyond this simple Instant Pot version, apples offer endless culinary possibilities. You might also enjoy whipping up my Crockpot Applesauce for a slow-cooked variation, or perhaps these warm and inviting Skillet Apples. For a delightful baked treat, don’t miss these Apple Bars with Pumpkin Pie Spice Icing. But for sheer speed and convenience, the Instant Pot is unbeatable for applesauce!

Why Choose the Instant Pot for Homemade Applesauce?

If you’ve never made applesauce in an Instant Pot before, you’re in for a treat! This method offers several compelling advantages over traditional stovetop or slow cooker preparations:

• Speed: The primary benefit is how incredibly fast it is. Apples cook down in a fraction of the time compared to simmering them on the stove.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once you set the Instant Pot, you can walk away and let it do all the work. No constant stirring or monitoring required, freeing you up to do other things.
• Consistent Results: Pressure cooking ensures evenly cooked, tender apples every time, making mashing a breeze.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, simplifying the post-cooking cleanup process.
• Healthier Option: By making it at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust sweetness to your preference or omit added sugars entirely for a naturally healthy snack.

Simple Ingredients for Perfect Pressure Cooker Applesauce

This delightful recipe relies on just a few simple ingredients, making it easy to prepare even on busy days.

APPLES: Apples are, naturally, the star of the show in this homemade applesauce recipe. While you can certainly use your absolute favorite apple variety, certain types lend themselves exceptionally well to applesauce. For a balanced flavor and smooth texture, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples. The best apples for making applesauce generally include Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious. If you prefer a more tart applesauce, Granny Smith is an excellent addition. Peeling the apples is recommended for the smoothest applesauce, but leaving the peel on will add extra fiber and nutrients; just be prepared for a slightly chunkier texture.

WATER: A small amount of water is essential in the Instant Pot. It creates the necessary steam for pressure cooking the apples and helps to prevent scorching. This liquid also contributes to the final consistency of your applesauce, ensuring it’s not too dry.

LEMON JUICE: Lemon juice plays a crucial dual role. Firstly, it adds a bright, slightly tart flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the apples, preventing the applesauce from tasting overly flat. Secondly, the acidity in lemon juice acts as a natural antioxidant, helping to keep the apples from browning during and after cooking, maintaining an appealing color.

CINNAMON: Cinnamon is a classic pairing with apples and adds a wonderful warmth and aromatic depth to your applesauce. It’s a key ingredient for that comforting, familiar flavor. Start with the suggested amount, but remember that spice preference is very personal. I suggest waiting until the end to taste the applesauce before adding more cinnamon or other spices, allowing you to adjust to your liking. For an extra boost of flavor, consider using a cinnamon stick during cooking and removing it before mashing.

Making Applesauce in Your Instant Pot: Step-by-Step

Creating homemade applesauce in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, flavorful applesauce every time:

1. Prepare Your Apples: Start by washing your apples thoroughly. For the smoothest applesauce, peel and core them, then chop them into roughly 1-inch chunks. If you prefer a chunkier, more rustic applesauce and don’t mind the peels, you can skip peeling. The Instant Pot will soften them considerably.

2. Load the Instant Pot: Place all your prepared apples, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the lemon juice coats the apples. This helps distribute the flavors and prevents browning.

3. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place. Rotate the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Set the Instant Pot to manual or pressure cook on high pressure for 9 minutes. The pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins.

4. Release Pressure & Mash: Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully manually release the steam by turning the valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious of the hot steam. Once all the pressure has been released and the float valve drops, open the lid. With the help of a potato masher, mash the softened apples directly in the Instant Pot until you achieve your desired consistency. For an extra smooth applesauce, you can use an immersion blender.

5. Serve or Store: Your homemade Instant Pot Applesauce is ready! Serve it warm as a comforting side or snack. For storage, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator.

Delicious Ways to Customize Your Homemade Applesauce

One of the best parts about making applesauce from scratch is the freedom to customize it to your exact preferences. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your Instant Pot Applesauce:

• Sweetness Variations: If you prefer to sweeten your applesauce, there are many options beyond traditional sugar. Try using natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. For a sugar-free alternative, a touch of stevia or monk fruit sweetener can be used. Adjust the amount to taste after cooking, as apples vary in natural sweetness.
• Explore Spices: While cinnamon is a classic, don’t limit yourself! Spices can truly transform your applesauce. Experiment with adding a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, nutmeg, or a ready-made pumpkin pie spice blend for a warm, autumnal flavor. For a more adventurous twist, a touch of cardamom or ginger can add an exotic note. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a few crushed cinnamon red hots can add a surprising and fun kick.
• Texture Control: Your desired consistency is entirely up to you. For a delightfully chunky applesauce, a simple potato masher is perfect. If you prefer a velvety smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the Instant Pot, or transfer the cooked apples to a regular blender or food processor and blend until silky. Add a splash of water if needed to reach your preferred smoothness.
• Flavor Boosters: A splash of vanilla extract after cooking can add a lovely depth of flavor. For a citrusy brightness, try adding a strip of orange or lemon zest to the pot during cooking (remove before mashing). Some people also enjoy adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins during the last few minutes of cooking for extra chewiness and flavor.

How to Freeze Homemade Applesauce for Longer Enjoyment

Making a large batch of Instant Pot Applesauce is a smart move, especially during peak apple season. Freezing your homemade applesauce is an excellent way to preserve its fresh flavor for months. To freeze it:

1. First, allow the applesauce to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent freezer burn and maintain texture.
2. Transfer the cooled applesauce into gallon-sized freezer bags or freezer-safe containers. If using bags, lay them flat and press out as much air as possible before sealing to optimize storage space and prevent freezer burn. You can also freeze applesauce in individual portions using ice cube trays; once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
3. Store the applesauce in the freezer for up to 2 months for best quality. While it will remain safe to eat for longer, the quality might start to decline after this period.
4. To thaw, simply move the frozen applesauce to the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How Long Can You Store Homemade Applesauce in the Refrigerator?

Once you’ve made a batch of delicious Instant Pot Applesauce, you’ll want to enjoy it fresh. Properly stored, homemade applesauce keeps well in the fridge:

You can refrigerate applesauce for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors from your refrigerator. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or mold, it’s best to discard it.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Applesauce

Homemade applesauce is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve it warm alongside roasted pork, chicken, or turkey. It’s a perfect accompaniment to savory meals.
• Breakfast Booster: Swirl it into oatmeal, yogurt, or cottage cheese for a naturally sweet start to your day. Top pancakes or waffles with a generous dollop.
• Healthy Snack: Enjoy it on its own, hot or cold, for a wholesome and satisfying snack.
• Baking Ingredient: Substitute applesauce for oil or butter in baking recipes (like muffins, cakes, or quick breads) to reduce fat and add moisture.
• Dessert Topping: Spoon it over vanilla ice cream, incorporate it into apple crisps or crumbles, or simply enjoy it as a light dessert.

More Delicious Apple Recipes You Might Like

If you find yourself with an abundance of apples or simply can’t get enough of their fresh flavor, be sure to explore these other fantastic apple-centric recipes:

APPLE KALE QUINOA SALAD

APPLE PANCAKES

EASY SKILLET APPLES

BUTTERNUT SQUASH APPLE BAKE

SLOW COOKER BUTTERNUT SQUASH APPLE SOUP

SLOW COOKER APPLE PIE OATMEAL

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Instant Pot Applesauce

By
Julia Jolliff

Prep:
10 minutes mins

Cook:
20 minutes mins

Total:
30 minutes mins

Servings:
4 servings

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Instant Pot Applesauce is a sweet snack or side dish made with your favorite apples.

Ingredients

• ▢ 6 Apples, peeled and quartered
• ▢ ⅓ Cup water
• ▢ 1 Tablespoons lemon juice
• ▢ ¼ Tablespoons cinnamon

Instructions

• Place all ingredients into the Instant Pot and stir to combine.
• Close the lid and valve and set on manual high pressure for 9 minutes.
• Manually release steam and open the valve and lid. With the help of a potato masher, mash the apples until your desired consistency.
• Serve warm or put in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Once you are finished with your applesauce you can add more or less cinnamon depending on your tastes.
• If you like a smoother applesauce you can use a handheld blender to puree or a regular blender.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal,
Carbohydrates: 38g,
Protein: 1g,
Fat: 0.5g,
Saturated Fat: 0.1g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g,
Sodium: 4mg,
Potassium: 298mg,
Fiber: 7g,
Sugar: 28g,
Vitamin A: 149IU,
Vitamin C: 14mg,
Calcium: 22mg,
Iron: 0.4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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