Introduction

This Instant Pot Applesauce is a quick and easy way to enjoy homemade, naturally sweetened applesauce with minimal effort. Using a variety of apples and warm spices, it’s a comforting and delicious treat perfect for any time of year.

A glass jar filled with chunky, light beige applesauce that has a slightly glossy texture, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder and two upright cinnamon sticks. Behind the jar, there are two whole apples, one red and one green, resting on a blue cloth inside a light gray metal tray. More cinnamon sticks are scattered around the jar on the tray, which is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 lbs. mixed variety apples (about 5-6 large apples)
⅓ cup water
½ tsp. cinnamon
¼ tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler, then core and cut them into large 2-inch chunks.
Step 2: Add the cut apples to a 6-quart Instant Pot along with the water, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and make sure the pressure release valve is sealed.
Step 4: Set the Instant Pot to Manual mode at High pressure and cook for 7 minutes.
Step 5: When the cooking time is done, quick release the pressure valve immediately.
Step 6: Mash the cooked apples with a potato masher until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Stir in lemon juice if using, then serve the applesauce immediately or refrigerate.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor and natural sweetness.
Adjust the spices to your liking or add a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.
If you prefer a smoother applesauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender instead of mashing.
For extra sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup after cooking.

Storage

Store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving if you prefer it warm. You can also freeze applesauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

A close-up of a glass jar filled with light beige chunky applesauce, sprinkled lightly with cinnamon powder on top. Two brown cinnamon sticks are inserted standing upright into the jar. Around the jar, there are a few whole red and green apples and several cinnamon sticks lying on a white marbled surface. The texture of the applesauce looks soft and slightly glossy. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use only one type of apple?

Yes, you can use a single apple variety, but combining sweet and tart apples often results in a more complex and balanced flavor.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling helps create a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer a chunkier applesauce and don’t mind the added texture and color.

Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 61 reviews

This easy Instant Pot Applesauce recipe uses mixed variety apples cooked to tender perfection with warm spices. In just minutes, you’ll have fresh, homemade applesauce that can be enjoyed on its own or as a versatile topping or snack.

Author: Lila
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: About 4 cups of applesauce 1x
Category: Dessert, Snack, Side Dish
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Applesauce Ingredients

3 lbs. mixed variety apples (about 5–6 large apples)
⅓ cup water
½ tsp. cinnamon
¼ tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler. Core them and cut into large 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
Add to Instant Pot: Place the cut apples into a 6-quart Instant Pot. Add the water, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring gently to combine.
Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the pressure release valve is sealed. Select manual mode, set to high pressure, and cook for 7 minutes.
Release Pressure: As soon as the cooking time ends, perform a quick release of the pressure valve to let out steam safely.
Mash and Finish: Open the lid and use a potato masher to mash the applesauce to your preferred texture. Stir in lemon juice if using. Serve immediately or transfer to containers and refrigerate for up to 7-10 days.

Notes

Use a mix of apple varieties like Fuji, Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Lemon juice adds brightness and helps preserve the color of the applesauce.
Adjust spices to taste or omit nutmeg if preferred.
Instant Pot size: This recipe fits a 6-quart model; adjust quantities accordingly for other sizes.
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Instant Pot applesauce, homemade applesauce, easy applesauce recipe, pressure cooker applesauce, healthy snack, fall recipe