There’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of warm cinnamon and sweet apples wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to crisp autumn days, where the chill in the air calls for cozy desserts that make you feel right at home. Enter the Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples a delightful dish that not only warms the soul but is also incredibly simple to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a luscious, sticky sauce that envelops tender apple slices, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to impress guests or a sweet topping for your morning oatmeal or pancakes, this recipe is your answer. Even better, you’ll love how effortlessly the Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to savor the moment instead of stressing over the stove. So, grab your apples and let’s embark on this deliciously easy adventure together!
Why Will You Love Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can prepare this delicious dessert in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings.
Warm and Comforting: The aroma of cinnamon and apples fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that wraps you in warmth.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a cozy dessert, a topping on pancakes or yogurt, or even as an apple pie filling.
Healthier Option: This vegetarian treat is lower in fat and can be sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey, catering to various dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Impress family and friends with a dessert that is both homemade and effortlessly delicious!
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Ingredients
• Gather these simple, flavorful ingredients to create your delightful Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples!
For the Apples
- Apples – Use Granny Smith for a perfect balance of tartness and firmness; Honeycrisp or Fuji can also work but may change the texture.
- Lemon Juice – This adds freshness and helps prevent browning; freshly squeezed juice is always best.
For the Sweetness
- Dark Brown Sugar – It provides a rich sweetness that’s simply divine; you can substitute it with maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Maple Syrup or Honey – Adds a layer of complexity to your dish; choose based on your flavor preference.
For the Spice
- Ground Cinnamon – An essential ingredient for that warm flavor; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the spices in the dish; use sparingly or omit for a milder touch.
For the Sauce
- Water – This is essential to create steam in the Instant Pot; adjust the amount if you encounter a burn notice.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce; be sure to make a slurry with water before adding to avoid any lumps.
Embrace the warmth and flavor of these Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples as they transform your cozy moments into unforgettable experiences!
How to Make Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
- Prep Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into ½-inch pieces. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sliced apples to your Instant Pot, then sprinkle in the dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup. Mix well to ensure every slice is coated in flavor.
- Make Slurry: In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with a little bit of water until smooth, then pour it into the Instant Pot and stir thoroughly to mix everything together.
- Cook: Secure the lid of your Instant Pot, ensuring that the valve is sealed. Set it to cook on high pressure for just 1 minute this quick cooking time helps keep the apples tender!
- Release and Stir: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid and gently stir the apples before serving, letting the warm aroma fill your kitchen.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
Get ready to personalize this warm and delightful dish with your own unique twists!
- Boozy Kick: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to deepen the flavor, enhancing that cozy aroma.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping that brings texture and a nutty flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for an unexpected kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Citrus Zing: Use orange zest in place of lemon juice for a vibrant citrus note that brightens the dish.
- Dairy-Free: Swap maple syrup for agave nectar and serve with coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free option.
- Fruity Fusion: Add sliced pears along with the apples for a luscious combination that elevates the flavors.
- Sweetener Swap: Substitute dark brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar for a different sweet profile and softer notes.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top before serving for an indulgent finishing touch.
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
Fridge: Store your Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the apples out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any spoilage.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the apples, making them mushy when thawed.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist and delicious.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
- Selecting Apples: Choose Granny Smith for their balance of sweetness and firmness. Avoid soft varieties that may turn mushy, like McIntosh.
- Avoiding Burn Notices: Always add enough liquid to prevent burning. Stir the ingredients well to ensure nothing sticks to the pot before cooking.
- Achieving Perfect Texture: Slice apples uniformly to ½ inch for even cooking. Thicker slices may take longer and result in less desirable texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of dark brown sugar and maple syrup depending on your taste preferences for these Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples.
- Serving Suggestions: These apples are versatile! Use them warm atop ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes for an irresistible treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them up to 24 hours in advance, tossing them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, mix in the sugar and spices ahead of time, combining them in the Instant Pot and refrigerating until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions, ensuring that the apples stay just as delicious and tender. This time-saving approach makes these delightful cinnamon apples an ideal treat for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
These delightful cinnamon-kissed apples can elevate your meal into a cozy feast filled with warmth and flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, contrasting the warm apples and enhancing the luscious experience.
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Enjoy stacking these sweet apples atop fluffy pancakes, transforming your breakfast into a brunch delight that sings of comfort.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer the cinnamon apples into yogurt cups with granola for a refreshing snack, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
- Savory Pork Chops: The sweetness of the apples complements savory pork, creating a mouthwatering blend of flavors that will please your guests.
- Oatmeal: Stirring the warm cinnamon apples into a bowl of oatmeal makes for a delightful breakfast that’s wholesome and heartwarming.
- Chai Tea: Sip on a steaming cup of chai tea alongside your apples, where the spices in the tea enhance the cozy flavors of the dish.
- Cheese Plate: Pair with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a sweet and savory balance that elevates your snack time.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle over your apples or pancakes adds an extra touch of sweetness, enhancing their sticky, caramelized charm.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Recipe FAQs
Which apples are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Granny Smith apples as they offer the perfect balance of tartness and firmness. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can work as alternatives but may alter the texture slightly keeping in mind that their sweetness might overpower the cinnamon flavor.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
For best results, store your Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will last for 3-5 days. This way, they remain fresh and flavorful! Just remember to avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
I generally advise against freezing these apples, as it may compromise their texture, making them mushy when thawed. However, if you must freeze them, transfer the cooled apples to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s space for expansion. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat.
What should I do if I encounter a burn notice?
Very! If your Instant Pot gives you a burn notice, it usually indicates that food is sticking to the bottom. Make sure to add enough liquid for steam and stir the ingredients well before sealing the lid. If it happens during cooking, release the pressure quickly, carefully open the lid, add a little more water, and mix again before resealing to cook further.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
When preparing Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples, it’s worth noting allergens such as nuts if you choose to add them for topping. Always check for any food allergies among guests, particularly with additions like maple syrup or nuts, which can be common allergens. If you’re unsure, stick with the base recipe for a simple and safe dessert!
How do I know when the apples are cooked perfectly?
For a great texture, you want the apples to be tender yet still slightly firm after cooking just like apple pie filling! Keeping the slices around ½-inch thick is vital; this standard ensures even cooking. If you desire softer apples, you can always add a minute to the cooking time, but be cautious not to overdo it.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples for the Perfect Cozy Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into ½-inch pieces. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- Transfer the sliced apples to your Instant Pot, then sprinkle in the dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup. Mix well to ensure every slice is coated in flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with a little bit of water until smooth, then pour it into the Instant Pot and stir thoroughly to mix everything together.
- Secure the lid of your Instant Pot, ensuring that the valve is sealed. Set it to cook on high pressure for just 1 minute.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid and gently stir the apples before serving.