Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Apple Cider Applesauce Recipe – Easy Instant Pot & Spice Blend

Okay, let’s be real. Applesauce is comfort food. It’s childhood memories, cozy autumn days, and a surprisingly versatile ingredient in the kitchen. I’ve been making applesauce for years, and this Apple Cider Applesauce recipe? It’s a game-changer. The Instant Pot makes it unbelievably easy, and the spice blend… oh, the spice blend! It’s warm, inviting, and just a little bit magical.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your grandma’s basic applesauce (though, let’s be honest, grandma’s applesauce is pretty great too!). This recipe takes things up a notch with the addition of apple cider and a beautiful blend of warming spices. It’s quick, it’s easy, and the flavor is incredible. Plus, the Instant Pot means minimal hands-on time – perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a little homemade goodness without the fuss.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this deliciousness:

• 3-4 lbs apples (about 1.3 – 1.8 kg)
• ?? cup apple cider (about 240ml – adjust to your preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• ?? cup sugar (about 150-200g – adjust to taste)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips to make sure your applesauce turns out perfectly:

Apples: Choosing the Right Variety

Honestly, a mix of apples is best! It gives you a more complex flavor. I love using a combination of sweet and tart varieties. Some great options include:

• Fuji: Super sweet and holds its shape well.
• Honeycrisp: Crisp, juicy, and slightly tart.
• Gala: Mildly sweet and readily available.
• Granny Smith: Tart and adds a lovely zing (use in moderation if you prefer sweeter applesauce).

Don’t worry about peeling! Leaving the peels on adds extra fiber and nutrients.

Apple Cider: Fresh vs. Store-Bought

Freshly pressed apple cider is amazing if you can get your hands on it, especially during apple season! But good quality store-bought cider works beautifully too. Just make sure it’s 100% apple cider, not apple juice with added sugar.

Spice Blend: The Warmth of Cinnamon, Pumpkin Pie Spice & Cardamom

This is where the magic happens. Cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice are classic applesauce companions. But the cardamom? That’s my secret weapon. It adds a subtle floral note that elevates the whole flavor profile. Don’t skip it! If you’re not a cardamom fan, you can reduce it or omit it, but I highly recommend giving it a try.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Core and slice the apples. No need to peel! Just core them and slice them into roughly 1-inch pieces.
2. Combine everything in the Instant Pot. Add the apple slices, apple cider, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and cardamom to your Instant Pot.
3. Cook on high pressure. Seal the lid and cook on Manual mode for 15 minutes.
4. Natural Pressure Release. Let the pressure release naturally. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Don’t rush it!
5. Blend it up! Once the pressure is released, carefully open the lid. Use an immersion blender to blend the apples into a smooth sauce. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the apples to a regular blender (just be careful when blending hot liquids!).
6. Sweeten and simmer. Stir in the sugar and switch the Instant Pot to the Sauté function on low heat. Simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until the applesauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Achieving the Perfect Consistency: If your applesauce is too thin, continue simmering on Sauté for a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more apple cider.
• Preventing Browning: Applesauce can brown over time due to oxidation. A squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent this, but it’s not essential.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Applesauce: This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your sugar source if you’re being super strict.
• Sugar-Free Applesauce: Omit the sugar entirely! The natural sweetness of the apples should be enough. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
• Spice Level Adjustment (More Cardamom!): I love a generous pinch of cardamom, but feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A little nutmeg is also lovely.
• Festival Adaptations (Thanksgiving Side Dish): Add a pinch of cloves and allspice for a truly festive flavor. This makes a wonderful side dish for Thanksgiving or any autumn celebration.

Serving Suggestions

Applesauce is so versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• As a snack: Simple and satisfying!
• With pork: A classic pairing.
• Over pancakes or waffles: A breakfast staple.
• As a baking ingredient: Use it in place of oil or applesauce in muffins, cakes, or breads.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled applesauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze applesauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What type of apples are best for applesauce?

A mix of sweet and tart apples is ideal! Fuji, Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith are all great choices.

Can I make this applesauce without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can simmer the apples in a large pot on the stovetop for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft enough to blend.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the applesauce?

Start with less sugar and add more to taste. You can also use a sugar substitute.

Can I use other spices besides cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and cardamom?

Absolutely! Nutmeg, cloves, and allspice are all delicious additions.

How long does homemade applesauce last in the freezer?

Up to 3 months. Make sure it’s stored in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.