Are you ready to embrace the cozy flavors of autumn? Then get ready to be amazed by this incredibly easy Instant Pot Apple Butter recipe! Forget hours of simmering on the stovetop; this recipe delivers the rich, deep flavor of homemade apple butter in a fraction of the time. Perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on pancakes, or even using as a unique glaze, this apple butter is a delicious and healthy addition to your fall baking and everyday meals. This is one of those easy recipes the whole family will love, a true gem for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 6 pounds apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Place the chopped apples, apple cider, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and salt into your Instant Pot. Stir gently to combine.
Pressure Cooking:
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 20 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
Pureeing & Finishing:
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Carefully remove the lid. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the apple mixture directly in the Instant Pot until smooth and creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches, blending until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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If the apple butter is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered on the stovetop for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. This step helps to reduce the moisture and thicken the apple butter.
Tips for the Best Apple Butter:
- Apple Selection: A mix of tart and sweet apples will give you the best flavor balance.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of ginger or cardamom can add a delightful twist.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on the sweetness of your apples and your personal preference.
- Storage: Once cooled completely, store your homemade apple butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Spiced Apple Butter: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Cranberry Apple Butter: Stir in 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries during the last 10 minutes of pressure cooking.
- Maple Apple Butter: Substitute 1/2 cup of maple syrup for 1/2 cup of the brown sugar for a richer, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific apples and sugar used. For a general estimate, one serving (approximately 1/4 cup) contains roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 0-1g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Sugar: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-4g
This easy Instant Pot apple butter recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your fall repertoire. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful treat for special occasions. Enjoy the deliciousness!