Instant Pot Applesauce

This homemade applesauce is incredibly easy, healthy, and bursting with fresh apple flavor. Using the Instant Pot, you can make perfectly soft, naturally sweet applesauce in minutes no added sugar needed! It’s a cozy, comforting recipe perfect for snacks, side dishes, or baking.

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Ingredients

• 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped (or Golden Delicious)
• 4 large Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (about ½ a lemon)
• ½ tsp. ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the apples
Peel, core, and roughly chop the apples. A Johnny apple peeler can make this step quick and easy.

2. Combine ingredients in the Instant Pot
Add the water, lemon juice, and cinnamon to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine, then add the chopped apples and toss to coat evenly.

3. Pressure cook
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (High Pressure) for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is done, perform a controlled quick release or let the pressure release naturally.

4. Mash or blend
Use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, pulse the mixture in a blender or use an immersion blender.

5. Cool and store
Transfer the applesauce to a bowl and let it cool completely. Add more cinnamon to taste if desired. Enjoy warm or chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 7–10 days.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Naturally sweet: Made with just apples — no added sugar required.
• Healthy and kid-friendly: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and wholesome flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a snack, side, or ingredient in baked goods.

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Tips

• Mix apple varieties: Combining tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp) apples gives the perfect balance of flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer sweeter applesauce, use only sweet apple varieties or add a touch of maple syrup or honey after cooking.
• Texture control: Mash for chunky applesauce or blend for a silky-smooth version.
• Avoid overfilling: Leave some space at the top of the Instant Pot so the apples cook evenly.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spiced applesauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ground cloves for a warm fall flavor.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Omit cinnamon for a pure apple taste.
• Fruit blends: Add pears, peaches, or strawberries before cooking for a twist.
• No Instant Pot: Simmer all ingredients on the stovetop for 20–25 minutes until soft, then mash or blend.

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FAQs

Can I freeze applesauce?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling ensures a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for extra fiber and a more rustic applesauce.

Can I make this sugar-free?
Absolutely — this recipe is naturally sweet from the apples alone.

How long does it last?
Store in the fridge for 7–10 days or freeze for longer storage.

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Serving and Suggestions

Serve warm or chilled as:

• A healthy snack for kids or adults
• A topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt
• A side dish with pork chops or roasted chicken
• A baking ingredient in muffins or cakes for natural sweetness