Instant Pot Applesauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal effort: The Instant Pot does all the work.

• Naturally sweet: No added sugar—just the goodness of apples.

• Kid-friendly: A snack your kids will actually ask for.

• Customizable: Use your favorite apple varieties for a flavor that suits you.

• Great for meal prep: Makes a generous batch that stores beautifully.

• Smooth and flavorful: Enhanced with cinnamon and vanilla.

• Freezer-friendly: Keeps well for up to a year.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• ¾ cup water (or up to 2 cups for a thinner consistency)

Directions

1. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place them in the insert of a 6- or 8-quart Instant Pot along with vanilla, cinnamon, and water.

2. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, set the valve to “sealing,” and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.

3. Allow the pot to naturally depressurize, which takes about 35 minutes.

4. Once depressurized, use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 cups of applesauce.

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Pressurizing/depressurizing: 50 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 8 (1 cup each)

Variations

• Chunky applesauce: Skip blending for a rustic texture.

• Sweetened: Add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

• Spiced: Add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for a warm spiced version.

• Pear blend: Replace half of the apples with pears for a delicious twist.

• Citrus hint: Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

• Unsweetened and plain: Omit cinnamon and vanilla for a simple, clean flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

• Freeze: Portion into jars or containers and freeze for up to 1 year.

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apples for Instant Pot applesauce?

Yes, you can use any variety. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Ambrosia and Granny Smith, creates the best flavor balance.

2. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling gives a smoother applesauce, but you can leave the skins on for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Can I make this recipe without cinnamon and vanilla?

Yes, the applesauce will still be delicious. These add flavor but are optional.

4. What if I want chunky applesauce?

Simply mash the apples with a potato masher instead of blending for a chunkier texture.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the max fill line.

6. How do I prevent watery applesauce?

Use the lower end of the water measurement (¾ cup) for a thicker consistency.

7. Is this applesauce good for babies?

Yes, it’s naturally sweetened with just apples, but make sure to blend very smooth for younger babies.

Can I can this applesauce for shelf storage?

This recipe is designed for refrigeration and freezing, not canning.

How do I thaw frozen applesauce?

Place the container in the fridge overnight or thaw gently in the microwave.

What can I serve applesauce with?

It’s great on its own, but also pairs well with pancakes, waffles, or as a topping for oatmeal.

Conclusion

Instant Pot applesauce is a simple, wholesome recipe that takes minimal effort yet delivers big flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, side dish, or ingredient in other recipes, this homemade applesauce is a nutritious staple worth keeping in your fridge or freezer.