Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a cup of pumpkin apple cider. This recipe combines the best of autumn’s fruits, pumpkin, and spices into a warm, comforting drink. The Instant Pot makes the preparation quick and simple, with minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you’re sipping it on a crisp fall day or serving it at a holiday gathering, this cider is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for more.

Ingredients

• 6 apples, I used 3 Honey Crisp and 3 Granny Smith, sliced into rounds

• ½ lemon, sliced into rounds

• ½ orange, sliced into rounds

• 6 cups water

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 star anise, optional

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup maple syrup

• 1 ⅓ cups pumpkin puree

• ½ tbsp pumpkin spice

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

Directions

1. Add the sliced apples, lemon, orange, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise (if using), and vanilla extract into the Instant Pot or pressure cooker.

2. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.

3. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid and let the cider cool completely.

4. Once cooled, strain the cider through a colander lined with cheesecloth to extract all the juice from the fruits. Discard the fruit solids.

5. Stir in the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice until everything is well combined.

6. Serve warm or chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent treat.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Additional time: 25 minutes (cooling and releasing pressure)

• Total time: 1 hour

• Servings: 6-8 servings

Variations

• Soda Version: Add a splash of ginger soda or apple soda to each glass for a fizzy, refreshing twist on this fall classic.

• Spices: You can customize the spices by adding cloves, nutmeg, or allspice to enhance the cider’s flavor.

• Sweeteners: Instead of maple syrup, try honey or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

• Non-dairy: For a dairy-free version, skip the whipped cream or use a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the cider on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature. Stir well before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cider without an Instant Pot?

Yes! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat for about 45 minutes, or until the fruit is softened and the flavors have melded together. Strain and follow the rest of the instructions as usual.

2. Can I freeze pumpkin apple cider?

Yes, you can freeze this cider for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

3. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite apple variety. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honey Crisp and Granny Smith, will give the cider a well-balanced flavor, but you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Gala.

4. Is it necessary to use both cinnamon sticks and star anise?

While the star anise is optional, it adds a warm, licorice-like flavor that complements the cider beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand, you can leave it out or replace it with additional cinnamon or cloves.

5. Can I make this cider in advance?

Yes, this cider can be made a day or two ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I make this recipe without pumpkin puree?

While pumpkin puree is a key ingredient for the flavor and texture, you could substitute it with butternut squash puree or even sweet potato puree if preferred.

7. How do I serve this cider for a party?

To serve this cider at a party, make a large batch in the Instant Pot, then keep it warm in a slow cooker. Set out a variety of toppings, like whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and caramel sauce, for guests to garnish their drinks.

8. How can I make this cider less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cider, reduce the amount of maple syrup or substitute it with a smaller amount of a sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

9. Can I add soda to this cider?

Yes, you can add a splash of ginger soda or apple soda for a fizzy and refreshing version of this cider. Add the soda to individual servings to keep the carbonation intact.

10. Is this cider good for kids?

Yes, this cider is perfect for kids! It’s naturally sweet from the apples and pumpkin and doesn’t require any soda, making it a great family-friendly fall treat.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the cozy, comforting flavors of fall. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and aromatic beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it warm for a chilly evening or chilled for a refreshing fall drink, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. Enjoy the rich, spiced taste of autumn in every sip!

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