Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

The Cozy Comfort You Didn’t Know You Needed: Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

There's something magical about the scent of simmering apples with cinnamon wafting through the house—it instantly transports me to crisp autumn mornings, chunky sweaters, and the quiet joy of home-cooked comfort. As a chef and home cook, I’ve spent years chasing flavors that evoke a feeling of warmth and nostalgia. And let me tell you—this homemade applesauce Instant Pot recipe is one of the coziest things I’ve ever made.

I first stumbled into making applesauce years ago when I had an overabundance of apples from a local orchard. I tried stovetop versions, slow cookers—you name it. But it wasn’t until I started using my Instant Pot that I realized just how easy, quick, and delicious homemade applesauce could be. It’s now a staple in my kitchen—not just as a fall treat, but as a healthy snack, a side dish, and even baby food.

In this post, I’m sharing my go-to simple applesauce recipe, how to mix in flavors like strawberry or savory herbs, and even how to can it for later. Whether you're prepping easy meals for kids, looking for a healthy snack, or just want to fill your home with the scent of cinnamon apples—this one’s for you.

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Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Recipe

Homemade applesauce has a reputation for being fussy or time-consuming, but not this one. Here’s why this Instant Pot version is the best applesauce recipe you’ll find:

• It’s easy. Just throw everything into the pot, press a button, and you're done.
• Perfect for fall. Use up those orchard apples or the bruised ones in your fruit bowl.
• Naturally healthy. No sugar needed unless you want it—great for kids and babies.
• Versatile. Eat it warm, chilled, on pancakes.
• Kid-approved. My toddler calls it “apple magic.”

And yes—there’s a sweet little twist with strawberries coming up later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this homemade applesauce Instant Pot recipe:

Basic Ingredients (makes about 6 cups)

• 3 pounds apples (about 6–8 medium apples) – peeled or unpeeled, cored, and chopped
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional for added sweetness)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries – for a strawberry applesauce variation
• Pinch of nutmeg or ginger – for extra fall flavor
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme – for a savory twist

How to Make Homemade Applesauce in the Instant Pot

Making applesauce has never been this simple. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Prep the Apples

You can peel them if you prefer a smoother texture, but I often leave the skin on for more fiber and rustic feel. Core and chop the apples into chunks.

2. Add to the Instant Pot

Add apples, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and any other add-ins (like strawberries or herbs) to the pot.

3. Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set to Manual/Pressure Cook on High for 8 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

4. Blend or Mash

Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture, or mash with a fork for chunkier sauce. Stir in vanilla and sweetener if using.

That’s it! Your easy Instant Pot applesauce is ready.

Chef’s Tool Tips: Product Recommendations

Over the years, I’ve tried countless kitchen tools, and these are three Amazon products I truly stand by when making applesauce:

1. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

This is the exact model I’ve used for years. It’s versatile, reliable, and makes applesauce (and soups, yogurt, rice…) effortlessly. The 6-quart size is perfect for families.

Why I love it: It cuts cooking time dramatically and never overcooks.

Grab the Instant Pot Duo today and simplify your cooking life—you’ll wonder how you lived without it!

2. Mueller Ultra-Stick Hand Blender

Perfect for getting that smooth applesauce texture right in the pot without transferring hot liquids.

Why I love it: It’s powerful, lightweight, and under $30!

View on Amazon

Blend like a pro—pick up this hand blender and upgrade your kitchen game.

3. Ball Mason Jars for Canning (16 oz, Pack of 12)

If you plan to make large batches for the pantry or gifts, these jars are essential.

Why I love it: Sturdy, classic, and perfect for canning homemade applesauce.

Start your canning journey with these tried-and-true jars—perfect for sauces, jams, and more.

View on Amazon

Flavor Variations You Must Try

Now that you’ve mastered the base recipe, here are some of my favorite flavor twists:

Strawberry Applesauce

• Add 1 cup chopped strawberries before pressure cooking.
• This version is bright, tangy, and a total hit with kids.
• Serve cold as a summer snack or swirl into yogurt.

Savory Applesauce

• Add 1 tsp chopped rosemary or thyme.
• Pairs beautifully with pork chops or roast chicken.
• A wonderful addition to easy meals for kids that need more flavor.

Cinnamon-Vanilla Comfort

• Double the cinnamon and add ½ tsp vanilla.
• Warm and deeply cozy—ideal for fall mornings or over oatmeal.

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot applesauce is more than just a snack. Here’s how I use it every week:

• Warm with granola for breakfast.
• Packed in lunchboxes for my daughter (she calls it her “apple pudding”).
• Spread on toast or pancakes.
• Blended for baby food—simple, sweet, and safe when made without added sugar.
• Frozen into popsicles for a healthy summer treat.

How to Store, Freeze, and Can Applesauce

This recipe makes about 6 cups, so unless you have a house full of hungry mouths, you’ll want to store some.

Refrigerator

Lasts for up to 7–10 days in an airtight container.

Freezer

Let it cool, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze flat for easy storage. Lasts 3–4 months.

Canning

To make shelf-stable jars, sterilize your mason jars, ladle in the hot applesauce, and process in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes (adjust for altitude).

Pro tip: Label jars with the date and flavor variation!

FAQs and Chef’s Tips

Can I use pears instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears work beautifully in this recipe and add a lovely floral note.

What are the best apples for applesauce?

I love a mix of sweet and tart. My go-to combo: Honeycrisp + Granny Smith + Fuji.

Is it safe for babies?

Yes, just omit the sweeteners and keep it plain. Always consult with your pediatrician first, though!

Can I skip lemon juice?

You can, but it helps preserve color and adds a nice brightness.

How do I get super smooth applesauce?

Blend longer with your immersion blender—or use a traditional blender and strain through a sieve.

Final Thoughts

I never imagined that something as simple as applesauce could bring so much joy to my kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that brings generations together—from the baby tasting it for the first time to the grandparents reminiscing over warm bowls of cinnamon-laced goodness.

This homemade applesauce Instant Pot recipe has become a weekly ritual in our home. It’s more than a snack—it’s a cozy little celebration of flavor, love, and nourishment. I hope you try it and love it just as much as we do.

If you do make it, let me know your favorite variation. Are you team classic cinnamon, team strawberry twist, or team savory surprise?