A simple recipe lets you make delicious, homemade applesauce in no time using your Instant Pot®. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy addition to any meal, it’s both easy and naturally sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 lemon
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 (1/4 inch thick) slice fresh ginger
- 1 star anise pod
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 piece cheesecloth
- 3 pounds apples - peeled, cored, and quartered
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, or more to taste
Ingredient Image
Directions
Peel two thick strips of lemon zest, being careful to leave out the bitter white part. Tie the lemon peel together with the cinnamon stick, ginger, star anise, and cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth—this makes it easy to fish out later. Put the apples in your Instant Pot or any similar pressure cooker, then add the spice bundle, water, and a pinch of salt. Seal the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes; remember it’ll take about 10 to 15 minutes to come to pressure. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 to 20 minutes—this helps prevent any hot splatters. When it’s safe to open, carefully remove the spice bundle and discard it. Stir in the brown sugar until it’s fully dissolved, then give it a taste and add a little more sugar if you like it sweeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any apples you like. A mix of sweet and tart apples works well for balanced flavor.
Do I have to use a cheesecloth for the spices?
Using cheesecloth makes it easier to remove the spices after cooking, but you can also use a spice infuser or tie the spices in a small piece of muslin.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot or pressure cooker?
You can cook the apples and spices on the stove in a covered pot over low heat until the apples are soft, about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I skip the brown sugar or use a substitute?
Yes, you can omit the sugar or use honey, maple syrup, or another sweetener to taste.
How do I store the applesauce and how long does it last?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
Is it okay to leave out the star anise or cloves?
Yes, you can omit any spices you don’t like; the applesauce will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe with apple peels on?
You can leave the peels on for added fiber and color, but the texture will be a bit chunkier.
How do I adjust the sweetness if my apples are very tart?
Start with the suggested sugar amount and add more after cooking, tasting as you go until it’s sweet enough for you.
PV
By Priya Verma
Food Enthusiast
Priya focuses on making recipes easy and reliable, helping home cooks prepare meals with confidence.
