Description
This Instant Pot Applesauce recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare homemade applesauce using a mix of fresh apples and warm spices. Cooked under high pressure for just 7 minutes, the apples become tender and flavorful, resulting in a naturally sweet and comforting sauce perfect for snacking, desserts, or breakfast toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Applesauce Ingredients
- 3 lbs. apples (mixed variety, about 5-6 large apples)
- â…“ cup water
- ½ tsp. cinnamon
- ¼ tsp. nutmeg
- 1 tsp. lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Peel the Apples: Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the skin from each apple, preparing them for cooking.
- Core and Chop the Apples: Core the peeled apples and cut them into large 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking in the Instant Pot.
- Combine Ingredients in Instant Pot: Place the apple chunks into a 6-quart Instant Pot along with ⅓ cup of water and the spices – cinnamon and nutmeg. Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the pressure release valve is sealed.
- Cook Under High Pressure: Set the Instant Pot to Manual mode on High pressure and cook for 7 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure by carefully opening the valve to prevent overcooking.
- Mash and Finish the Applesauce: Open the lid and use a potato masher to mash the cooked apples to your desired consistency – smooth or chunky. Stir in the optional lemon juice for added brightness. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7-10 days.
Notes
- For a smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender after cooking instead of mashing manually.
- Lemon juice helps prevent browning and adds a subtle tang to balance the sweetness.
- Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preference.
- You can use any mix of apple varieties, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala work well for natural sweetness.
- Store leftover applesauce in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or freeze for longer storage.
