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Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Recipe

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These Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples are tender, warmly spiced, and coated in a glossy brown sugar and cinnamon sauce. They make an easy dessert, breakfast topping, or sweet side dish in about 20 to 25 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 5 medium apples
  • 1/2 cup apple juice or water
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Peel the apples if desired, then core them and cut them into slices about 1/2 inch thick.
  2. Place the sliced apples in the Instant Pot and add the apple juice or water and lemon juice.
  3. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt over the apples and gently toss to combine.
  4. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
  5. When the cooking cycle finishes, carefully perform a quick pressure release to prevent the apples from becoming overly soft.
  6. Open the lid and gently stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
  7. Whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until completely smooth.
  8. Select the sauté setting and slowly stir the cornstarch slurry into the apples and cooking liquid.
  9. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring gently, until the liquid thickens into a glossy cinnamon sauce.
  10. Turn off the Instant Pot and let the apples cool for a few minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.

Notes

  • Firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady hold their shape particularly well under pressure.
  • Quick-release the pressure promptly after the 1-minute cooking cycle to help prevent mushy apples.
  • The apples can be left unpeeled for more texture or peeled for a softer, dessert-style result.
  • For maple cinnamon apples, replace some or all of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup.
  • For extra apple pie flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice.
  • Serve over oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, French toast, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream.
  • Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a small splash of apple juice or water while reheating.

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