Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples (Print)

Tender cinnamon apples cooked quickly in the Instant Pot for a warm, sweet dessert or breakfast topping.

# What You Need:

→ Produce

01 - 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges

→ Sweeteners

02 - 1/3 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
03 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)

→ Liquids

04 - 1/4 cup water or apple juice

→ Spices

05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
07 - 1 pinch salt

→ Other

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# How to Make:

01 - Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch wedges using a vegetable peeler and sharp knife.
02 - Place the apple slices into the Instant Pot insert. Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt evenly over the apples.
03 - Drizzle maple syrup or honey over the apples if using, then pour in the water or apple juice.
04 - Distribute the butter pieces evenly across the top of the apple mixture.
05 - Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the steam release valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
06 - Allow the pressure to release naturally for 3 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
07 - Open the lid and gently stir in the vanilla extract. For a thicker syrup consistency, select Sauté mode and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
08 - Serve warm over oatmeal, pancakes, or ice cream. Makes an excellent dessert or breakfast topping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in about 20 minutes but tastes like slow cooked comfort food
  • Uses basic pantry staples you probably already have
  • Works for breakfast, dessert, or even as a topping for savory pork chops
02 -
  • Do not skip the water or juice, the pot needs liquid to come to pressure safely
  • Natural release for 3 minutes prevents apples from turning into applesauce
  • Vanilla loses its magic if cooked under pressure, always add it at the end
03 -
  • Mix apple varieties for more complex flavor and texture
  • Use dark brown sugar if you want deeper caramel notes