Easy Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe: Homemade in 30 Minutes

Making homemade applesauce has never been easier than with this easy instant pot applesauce recipe. The Instant Pot pressure cooker turns fresh apples into smooth, delicious applesauce in just 30 minutes with minimal effort. You do not need to stand over a hot stove stirring for hours like traditional methods require.

This easy instant pot applesauce recipe is perfect for using up extra apples, creating a healthy snack, or making baby food. You can customize the sweetness, add your favorite spices, and even make it with or without peeling the apples. The best instant pot applesauce comes from fresh apples, and you can control exactly what goes into it, avoiding preservatives and artificial ingredients found in store-bought versions.

Whether you want instant pot applesauce with sugar, prefer the easy instant pot applesauce recipe no sugar version, or need large batches for canning, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time	15 minutes
Natural Release Time	10 minutes
Cooking Time	8 minutes (pressure cooking)
Total Time	33 minutes
Servings	6 cups (approximately 12 servings)
Difficulty Level	Easy

Ingredients

For Basic Easy Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe:

• 3 pounds apples (about 8-10 medium apples) – Any variety works
• 1/2 cup water – Helps create steam for pressure cooking
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Prevents browning and adds brightness
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds warm flavor
• Pinch of salt – Enhances overall taste

For Instant Pot Applesauce with Sugar:

Add to the basic recipe:

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adjust based on apple sweetness and preference

For Instant Pot Applesauce with Brown Sugar:

Replace granulated sugar with:

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar – Creates richer, deeper flavor with caramel notes

For Easy Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe No Sugar:

Use the basic recipe without adding any sweetener. The natural apple sugars provide sweetness.

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – For extra spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth
• 2-3 whole cloves – For warm spice flavor (remove before blending)
• 1 cinnamon stick – Alternative to ground cinnamon (remove before blending)

Method

Preparing the Apples:

Choose your apples

Select fresh, firm apples. You can use one variety or mix different types for complex flavor. Good choices include:

• Fuji apples – Sweet and crisp
• Gala apples – Sweet with mild flavor
• Honeycrisp – Sweet and juicy
• Granny Smith – Tart, balances sweet apples
• Golden Delicious – Sweet and soft when cooked

Wash apples

Rinse all apples under cool running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

Decide on peeling

You have two options:

Applesauce instant pot no peel method:

• Cut apples into quarters
• Remove cores and seeds
• Leave peels on (saves time)
• Peels will blend in or can be strained out later
• Keeps more nutrients and fiber

Traditional peeled method:

• Peel apples with a vegetable peeler
• Cut into quarters
• Remove cores and seeds
• Creates smoother applesauce

Cut apples

Cut apples into roughly equal chunks (about 1-2 inches). Uniform size helps even cooking.

Cooking in the Instant Pot:

Add ingredients to Instant Pot

Place apple chunks in the Instant Pot insert. Add water, lemon juice, and cinnamon if using. Do not add sugar yet if you are using it (add after cooking for better texture).

Close and seal

Close the Instant Pot lid. Make sure the pressure valve is set to “Sealing” position. This is important for pressure to build properly.

Set cooking time

Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button. Set to High Pressure. Set the instant pot applesauce cook time to 8 minutes. The Instant Pot will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure before cooking starts.

Natural release

When the cooking cycle finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This means do not touch the valve. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.

Open and check

Once the float valve drops, carefully open the lid away from your face to avoid steam. Apples should be very soft and falling apart.

Finishing the Applesauce:

Add sweetener

If using sugar or brown sugar, add it now. Stir well to dissolve.

Blend to desired consistency

You have several options:

• Chunky applesauce: Use a potato masher to mash apples to your preferred texture
• Smooth applesauce: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for 30-60 seconds
• Very smooth: Transfer to a regular blender in batches (careful, it is hot)
• With peels: If you left peels on, blend well or pass through a food mill to remove peel pieces

Adjust flavor

Taste and adjust:

• Add more cinnamon if desired
• Add more sweetener if needed
• Add a pinch more lemon juice for brightness
• Thin with water if too thick

Cool

Let applesauce cool in the pot for 10 minutes before transferring to storage containers.

Instant Pot Slow Cook Applesauce Method:

If you prefer the slow cooker method using your Instant Pot:

1. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot
2. Press “Slow Cook” button
3. Set to “High” for 4 hours or “Low” for 6-8 hours
4. Leave lid slightly vented (use a wooden spoon to prop lid open slightly)
5. Cook until apples are soft
6. Mash or blend as directed above

This method works well overnight or when you are home all day.

Serving Tips and Tricks

Tips for Best Results:

• Mix apple varieties: Combine sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor. Use 2 pounds sweet apples and 1 pound tart apples.
• Taste your apples first: If apples are very sweet, you may need no sugar at all. If they are tart, start with less sugar and add more after cooking.
• Do not overfill: Never fill your Instant Pot more than two-thirds full. Apples reduce significantly during cooking.
• Add sugar after cooking: Sugar can prevent proper pressure building and may cause burning. Always add sweetener after cooking.
• Use lemon juice: This prevents browning and brightens flavor. Do not skip it.
• Check your pressure valve: Always make sure the valve is sealed before starting.
• Let it cool slightly: Hot applesauce thickens as it cools. Do not add extra water while hot.

Pioneer Woman Instant Pot Applesauce Tips:

The Pioneer Woman suggests adding a vanilla bean or vanilla extract after cooking for extra flavor. She also recommends using a mix of apples for the best taste.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm as a side dish with pork chops or roasted chicken
• Enjoy cold as a healthy snack
• Top with granola and yogurt for breakfast
• Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
• Mix into oatmeal for natural sweetness
• Serve with potato latkes during holidays
• Use as a natural sweetener in baking (replaces oil in many recipes)
• Freeze in ice cube trays for baby food portions
• Spread on toast with cinnamon
• Layer in parfaits with vanilla yogurt

Making it Healthier (Easy Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe Healthy):

• Skip all added sugar
• Leave peels on for extra fiber
• Add no salt
• Use organic apples when possible
• Add a handful of fresh cranberries for antioxidants
• Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds after cooking for omega-3s

Storage and Temperature Guide

Room Temperature:

• Freshly made applesauce should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours
• Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing
• Do not leave applesauce out overnight

Refrigerator Storage:

• Store applesauce in airtight containers or jars
• Keeps fresh in the refrigerator for 7-10 days
• Use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids
• Always use clean spoons when serving to prevent contamination
• Check for mold or off smells before eating

Freezer Storage:

• Applesauce freezes excellently
• Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving 1 inch of space at the top (applesauce expands when frozen)
• Label containers with date
• Freeze for up to 6-8 months
• Freeze in portion sizes you will use
• Ice cube trays work great for baby food portions
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator or use the defrost setting on microwave

Easy Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe for Canning:

If you want to preserve applesauce for long-term storage:

Water Bath Canning Method:

1. Prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water
2. Make applesauce as directed above
3. Keep applesauce hot (at least 190°F)
4. Fill hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace
5. Remove air bubbles with a plastic spatula
6. Wipe jar rims clean
7. Place lids and rings on jars
8. Process in a boiling water bath canner
9. Process time depends on jar size and altitude:
   • Pint jars: 15 minutes (up to 1,000 feet altitude)
   • Quart jars: 20 minutes (up to 1,000 feet altitude)
   • Add 5 minutes for every additional 1,000 feet of altitude
10. Remove jars and let cool for 24 hours
11. Check seals before storing

Pressure Canning (Optional but not necessary for applesauce):

If you prefer pressure canning, you can, but it is not required since applesauce is high-acid.

How long to pressure can applesauce for?

• Process pint or quart jars at 6 pounds pressure for 8 minutes
• This is not necessary for applesauce since water bath canning works perfectly

Canned Shelf Life:

• Properly canned applesauce lasts 1-2 years in a cool, dark place
• Once opened, treat as fresh applesauce and refrigerate

Nutritional Value

Per Serving (1/2 cup, unsweetened):

• Calories: 52-65
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0-2mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugars: 11g (natural sugars)
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin C: 8% of Daily Value
• Potassium: 107mg

With Added Sugar (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 80-95
• Total Carbohydrates: 20-23g
• Sugars: 17-19g

Health Benefits:

• Good source of fiber: Especially when made with peels
• No added preservatives: Unlike store-bought versions
• Rich in antioxidants: Apples contain quercetin and other beneficial compounds
• Low in calories: When made without added sugar
• Naturally fat-free: Good for heart health
• Contains vitamin C: Supports immune system
• Easy to digest: Good for upset stomachs
• Versatile: Can replace oil in baking recipes (use equal amounts)

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make a simple apple sauce?

To make simple applesauce, you need just three basic ingredients: apples, water, and a small amount of lemon juice. Cut apples into chunks, add them to your Instant Pot with 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, release pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then mash or blend to your preferred consistency. You can add cinnamon for flavor, but it is optional. This creates a basic, unsweetened applesauce that relies on the natural sweetness of the apples.

What are the three ingredients in apple sauce?

The three essential ingredients in applesauce are apples, water, and lemon juice. Apples provide the main flavor and body. Water creates the steam needed for cooking. Lemon juice prevents the apples from turning brown and adds a slight tartness that balances the sweetness. Everything else (sugar, cinnamon, spices) is optional. Many people add cinnamon as a fourth ingredient, but the basic recipe only requires these three components.

Does applesauce go well with steak?

Applesauce does not traditionally pair with steak. Applesauce is more commonly served with pork dishes, particularly pork chops and pork roast. The sweetness of applesauce complements the savory flavor of pork very well. For steak, people typically prefer savory sauces like mushroom sauce, peppercorn sauce, or herb butter. However, food pairing is personal preference, and you can certainly try applesauce with steak if you enjoy sweet and savory combinations.

How long to pressure can applesauce for?

If using a pressure canner for applesauce, process pint or quart jars at 6 pounds of pressure for 8 minutes. However, pressure canning is not necessary for applesauce. Since applesauce is a high-acid food, water bath canning is the recommended and easier method. For water bath canning, process pint jars for 15 minutes and quart jars for 20 minutes at altitudes up to 1,000 feet. Add 5 minutes for each additional 1,000 feet of altitude.

Can I make applesauce without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make applesauce on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in a regular pot. The Instant Pot simply makes it faster and requires less attention. Stovetop applesauce takes 25-30 minutes of simmering, while slow cooker applesauce takes 4-6 hours.

Do I need to peel apples for applesauce?

No, you do not need to peel apples. Leaving the peels on (applesauce instant pot with peel) saves time and adds extra fiber and nutrients. The peels will either blend into the sauce or you can strain them out after cooking. If you want very smooth applesauce, peeling first may be easier, but it is not required.

Why is my applesauce watery?

Applesauce may seem watery right after cooking but will thicken as it cools. If it is still too watery after cooling, you used too much water or your apples had very high water content. Next time, use less water (try 1/3 cup instead of 1/2 cup) or cook on sauté mode with the lid off for a few minutes to evaporate excess liquid.

Can I make applesauce without lemon juice?

Yes, but lemon juice is recommended. It prevents browning and adds brightness to the flavor. If you do not have lemon juice, you can use 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or simply make it without, though the color may be darker.

What is the best apple for applesauce?

The best applesauce uses a mix of apple varieties. Combine sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp with tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced flavor. Single varieties work too, but mixing creates more complex flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but do not fill your Instant Pot more than two-thirds full. A 6-quart Instant Pot can handle about 5-6 pounds of apples maximum. The cooking time stays the same even when doubling the recipe.

How do I make applesauce for baby food?

Use the easy instant pot applesauce recipe no sugar version. Leave peels on for extra nutrition or peel them for smoother texture. Blend very smooth after cooking. Freeze in ice cube trays for perfect baby-sized portions. Each cube is about 2 tablespoons, which is one baby serving.

Can I use frozen apples?

Yes, frozen apples work well. Add them frozen directly to the Instant Pot. You may need to reduce the water slightly since frozen apples release more liquid. The cooking time remains the same.

Conclusion

This easy instant pot applesauce recipe transforms fresh apples into delicious homemade applesauce in just 30 minutes. Whether you prefer instant pot applesauce with sugar for a sweeter treat, the easy instant pot applesauce recipe no sugar for a healthier option, or want to try instant pot applesauce with brown sugar for deeper flavor, this method works perfectly every time.

The best instant pot applesauce comes from using quality apples and taking advantage of the pressure cooker’s ability to cook apples quickly while preserving their natural flavor. The applesauce instant pot no peel method saves preparation time, while the instant pot applesauce with peel option adds extra nutrition and fiber.

With a instant pot applesauce cook time of only 8 minutes under pressure, you can make fresh applesauce any day of the week. If you have more time, try the instant pot slow cook applesauce method for hands-off cooking. For preserving your harvest, the easy instant pot applesauce recipe for canning instructions help you enjoy homemade applesauce all year long.

The Pioneer Woman instant pot applesauce approach and this easy instant pot applesauce recipe healthy version prove that homemade applesauce is simple, nutritious, and far superior to store-bought versions. You control the ingredients, sweetness, and texture completely.

Make a batch today and enjoy the fresh taste of homemade applesauce. Your family will taste the difference, and you will appreciate knowing exactly what goes into this wholesome food.