As the first hints of autumn dance through the air, my kitchen is filled with the sweet and comforting aroma of cinnamon. That’s when I turn to my trusty Instant Pot to whip up a batch of Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, this recipe transforms crisp apples into a tender, syrupy delight that truly embodies the season.
Picture this: juicy, caramelized apples heaped on top of vanilla ice cream, or maybe spooned warm onto pancakes for a cozy weekend brunch. This dessert is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a versatile companion for breakfast, a flavorful topping for yogurt, and even a crowd-pleasing pie filling. Plus, this hearty and wholesome dish is entirely vegetarian, making it perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt of fast food. Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that promises to brighten your home and your taste buds!
Why You’ll Adore Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
Simplicity: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
Irresistible Aroma: As it cooks, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon, instantly boosting your mood.
Versatile Use: Enjoy these apples as a dessert, a topping for oatmeal, or even a delightful pie filling to impress guests.
Wholesome Ingredients: With fresh apples and natural sweeteners, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence for everyone, including vegetarians.
Quick Cooking: Ready in under ten minutes, the Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up this delicious treat without the long wait.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Ingredients
• Simple and rewarding components await!
For the Apples
- Apples – Crisp Granny Smith apples are perfect for this dish due to their tartness and firmness; Honeycrisp or Fuji can also work, though the texture may differ.
- Lemon Juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning; always choose freshly squeezed over bottled for the best results.
For the Sweet Sauce
- Dark Brown Sugar – This rich sugar not only sweetens but adds depth; for a different twist, consider swapping it with maple syrup.
- Ground Cinnamon – The star spice in this recipe, adjust the amount based on your cinnamon love; more for warmth, less for a subtler flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg – Just a pinch can enhance the overall spice profile; omit it for a milder taste.
- Maple Syrup or Honey – These natural sweeteners offer a delightful complexity; choose your favorite based on desired flavors.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – Essential for creating that luscious syrup; make sure to combine it with water first to avoid lumps.
- Water – Needed to create steam for cooking; be mindful to adjust if you receive a burn notice during the process.
Get ready to savor your flavorful batch of Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples!
How to Make Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
- Prep Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your Granny Smith apples into ½-inch pieces. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl to keep them nice and fresh.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sliced apples to your Instant Pot. Mix in dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and maple syrup, ensuring even coverage for a delightful flavor.
- Make Slurry: In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch with a little water to form a smooth slurry. Pour this into the Instant Pot, stirring well to avoid lumps and ensure thickening.
- Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the valve is sealed. Set to high pressure and cook for just 1 minute, allowing the magic to happen.
- Release and Stir: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure. Gently stir the apples, mixing in that luscious syrup before serving.
Optional: Try serving these warm apples over vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can peel, core, and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance, tossing them in lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients (dark brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg) and store them separately to save even more time. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the prepped apples with the dry mixture and prepare your cornstarch slurry. Cook as directed, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh. This advance preparation makes busy weeknights stress-free and ensures a cozy treat is always within reach!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
Fridge: Store your delicious Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While freezing is generally not recommended due to potential texture changes, if you must, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for a quick treat, or heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to revive their saucy goodness.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
- Selecting Apples: Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith. Avoid soft apples like McIntosh, which can turn mushy during cooking.
- Preventing Burn Notices: Always ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot. Stir well to keep ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
- Consistent Slicing: Cut apple slices into even ½-inch pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and maintain a pleasing texture.
- Thickening Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water first to create a slurry. This step prevents lumps and guarantees a smooth, thick sauce for your Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices like ginger or a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
Warm, sweet, and drizzled with syrup, these apples create the perfect centerpiece for your cozy mealtime.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm apples, making for an indulgent dessert.
- Pancakes: Spoon these cinnamon apples atop fluffy pancakes for a delightful weekend breakfast that warms the soul.
- Oatmeal: Mix into your morning oatmeal for a nutritious twist; it adds sweetness and a comforting flavor.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer with yogurt and granola for a delightful snack or breakfast with crunchy elements and creamy goodness.
- Pork Chops: The sweet and slightly tart flavor of the apples pairs exceptionally well with savory pork, creating a balanced dish.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft apples.
- Hot Tea or Coffee: Enjoy alongside a steaming cup to enhance the comforting experience, making each bite even more flavorful.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream atop the warm apples elevates it to a cozy, nostalgic dessert.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadent twist, transforming your apples into an irresistible treat.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Variations
Feel free to make this delightful recipe truly your own by trying out these delicious variations!
- Dairy-Free: Swap traditional ice cream with coconut or almond milk ice cream for a creamy, vegan-friendly dessert.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for a delightful texture and earthy flavor that enhances the apples.
- Maple Infusion: Replace dark brown sugar entirely with pure maple syrup for a different sweet profile and a hint of maple goodness.
- Peachy Bliss: Toss in a few sliced peaches along with the apples to blend flavors and create a fruity symphony.
- Boozy Brilliance: A splash of bourbon or rum adds depth and warmth, creating a sophisticated dessert perfect for gatherings.
- Cranberry Twist: Add dried cranberries or fresh cranberries for a tart element that beautifully balances the sweetness of the apples.
- Herbaceous Note: Infuse some fresh rosemary or thyme during cooking for an unexpected and aromatic herb twist that’s simply enchanting.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples, I highly recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness and firmness hold up well during cooking. If you want to experiment, Honeycrisp or Fuji varieties can also be used, but keep in mind that they might alter the texture slightly.
How long can I store Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples in the refrigerator?
Very! You can store your delicious Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing, as this helps maintain their freshness.
Can I freeze my Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples?
While freezing is generally not recommended due to potential texture changes, if you really want to, you can freeze your cinnamon apples in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if they seem dry.
What should I do if my cinnamon apples are too runny?
Don’t worry! If you find that your sauce is a bit too runny, you can thicken it easily. Simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apples while they’re simmering on the stove over low heat. Give it a few minutes, and you’ll see the sauce thicken beautifully!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much! This recipe for Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for those who follow a plant-based diet. However, be cautious if you’re concerned about allergies. For instance, if you’re using maple syrup instead of dark brown sugar, ensure there are no allergies to tree nuts. Always consider personal dietary needs when serving.
How can I enhance the flavor of my apples?
I often make this dish even more delightful by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for warming notes! You could also try incorporating a splash of bourbon for a boozy twist, or topping them with chopped nuts for some added crunch when serving. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor customization!
Sweet Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples – Quick & Irresistible Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your Granny Smith apples into ½-inch pieces. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl to keep them nice and fresh.
- Transfer the sliced apples to your Instant Pot. Mix in dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and maple syrup, ensuring even coverage for a delightful flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch with a little water to form a smooth slurry. Pour this into the Instant Pot, stirring well to avoid lumps and ensure thickening.
- Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the valve is sealed. Set to high pressure and cook for just 1 minute.
- Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure. Gently stir the apples, mixing in that luscious syrup before serving.