Instant Pot Apple Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy and fast thanks to the Instant Pot — no babysitting needed. It uses minimal ingredients, is naturally sweetened, and can be customized to your preferred level of smoothness and spice. Great for kids and adults alike, and perfect for using up extra apples.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
apples (any sweet or tart variety, or a mix)
water or apple juice
cinnamon (optional)
lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
salt (a pinch, optional)

Directions

1. Peel (optional), core, and chop the apples into chunks.
2. Add the apples to the Instant Pot along with water, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice if using.
3. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Allow a natural pressure release for 10–15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and stir. For chunky applesauce, serve as-is. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree.
7. Add maple syrup or honey if additional sweetness is desired. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Pressure release: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor
• Add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for a spiced version
• Use pear and apple together for a twist
• Stir in vanilla extract after cooking for extra depth
• Leave peels on for extra fiber and texture

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

What type of apples are best for applesauce?

Sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp are great, or mix with tart ones like Granny Smith for balance.

Do I need to peel the apples?

No — peeling is optional. Leaving the peels adds fiber and nutrients, especially if blending the sauce.

Can I make this applesauce sugar-free?

Yes — the apples provide natural sweetness. Omit any added sweetener for a sugar-free version.

Can I use apple juice instead of water?

Yes — it enhances the apple flavor and adds natural sweetness.

How do I make the applesauce smooth?

Blend with an immersion blender or regular blender after cooking.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes — store in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — just make sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the max fill line.

How long does applesauce last in the fridge?

Up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use this applesauce for baking?

Absolutely — it works well in muffins, cakes, or as an egg/oil substitute in many recipes.

What can I serve this with?

Serve it on its own, with pork chops, oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Apple Sauce is a quick, customizable, and comforting recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you prefer it chunky or smooth, sweetened or naturally tart, it’s a must-have homemade staple for every season.

Instant Pot Apple Sauce

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Instant Pot Apple Sauce is a simple, wholesome recipe made with fresh apples and just a few ingredients. It cooks in minutes and produces soft, naturally sweet apple sauce that’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or baking ingredient.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Snack
• Method: Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3 lbs apples (any variety or mix), peeled (optional), cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup water or apple juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Peel (optional), core, and chop the apples into chunks.
2. Add apples, water or juice, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt (if using) to the Instant Pot.
3. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10–15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir the applesauce. For a chunky texture, serve as-is. For smooth applesauce, blend using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender and puree.
7. Taste and stir in maple syrup or honey if desired for additional sweetness.
8. Let cool slightly and serve warm or chilled.

Notes

• Use a mix of apple types for more depth of flavor.
• Leaving the peels on adds nutrients but may affect texture if not blended.
• Use apple juice for a sweeter, more intense apple flavor.
• This applesauce is naturally gluten-free and can be made sugar-free and vegan.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: undefined
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg