Name: Instant Pot Applesauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds tart apples (about 4 large or 6 small, such as Granny Smith); 1½ pounds sweet apples (about 4 large or 6 small, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady); 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon ground pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon; Optional: 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup honey, pure maple syrup, or brown sugar (to taste)

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This homemade Instant Pot applesauce is a quick, delicious, and nutritious treat made with a perfect blend of sweet and tart apples. Lightly spiced with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice and optionally sweetened with your choice of natural sweetener, it’s a wholesome snack or side dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether served warm, chilled, or at room temperature, this applesauce is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple, with just a handful of ingredients and no need to stand over the stove. The Instant Pot does all the work, and you control the sweetness and spice level. It’s free from preservatives and easily adaptable for dietary preferences, making it a great choice for baby food, lunchbox snacks, or a naturally sweet topping for oatmeal, pancakes, or yogurt. Plus, it’s a perfect way to use up apples during peak season.

Instant Pot Applesauce

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ pounds tart apples (about 4 large or 6 small, such as Granny Smith)
1½ pounds sweet apples (about 4 large or 6 small, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady)
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon
Optional: 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup honey, pure maple syrup, or brown sugar (to taste)

Directions

Peel and core the apples, then cut them into 1-inch chunks.
Place the apple chunks in the bottom of a 6-quart Instant Pot.
Add the water, lemon juice, and your choice of spice (pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon).
Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
For a chunky texture, mash the apples using a wooden spoon or potato masher.
For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the applesauce in batches to a blender and puree until smooth.
Stir in your preferred sweetener, if using. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per serving

Variations

No Sweetener: Skip the added sugar altogether if your apples are naturally sweet enough.
Extra Spiced: Add more cinnamon or a pinch of cloves, nutmeg, or ginger for a bolder flavor.
Vanilla Applesauce: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooking.
Apple-Pear Mix: Substitute half of the apples with peeled, chopped pears.
Chunky Mix-In: Add raisins or finely chopped nuts after cooking for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—freeze in individual portions for easy thawing. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop if serving warm, or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I leave the peels on the apples?

Yes, if you plan to blend the applesauce smooth and prefer a slightly rustic texture. Otherwise, peeling is recommended for a more traditional texture.

Do I need to add sugar?

Not at all—if your apples are naturally sweet, you can skip it. Add sweetener only if needed, to taste.

Can I use all of one type of apple?

Yes, but combining tart and sweet apples gives a more balanced flavor.

Is this recipe safe for babies?

Yes, if you skip the sweetener and use mild spices, it’s a great homemade baby food option.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

Use ground cinnamon, or mix cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg and allspice.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your Instant Pot has enough room. Do not fill above the max fill line.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer the apples covered over low heat for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

Lemon juice adds brightness and helps preserve color, but you can skip it if needed.

How do I make it smoother?

Use a blender or immersion blender to puree until silky smooth.

Can I can this applesauce?

This recipe is not tested for canning. For shelf-stable canning, use a tested, approved recipe designed for that purpose.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Applesauce is a naturally sweet, comforting, and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for all ages. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy fresh, homemade applesauce that’s miles better than store-bought. Whether you’re spooning it warm over pancakes or packing it into lunchboxes, this versatile recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.