Name: Instant Pot Apple Butter Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lbs Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples, cored and quartered (peels on); ½ cup golden brown sugar (or dark brown sugar); ½ cup apple cider; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground allspice; ¼ teaspoon coarse salt

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If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of fall rolled into one luscious spread, you are going to fall head over heels for this Instant Pot Apple Butter. It’s the kind of recipe that takes humble apples and transforms them into thick, velvety goodness bursting with cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of vanilla. The magic lies in the Instant Pot, which speeds up the cooking, so you can enjoy homemade apple butter without an all-day stove commitment. Whether slathered on toast, dolloped on yogurt, or stirred into oatmeal, this Instant Pot Apple Butter is a must-have pantry staple that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Instant Pot Apple Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and freshness. The apples form the rich base, the brown sugar adds just the right caramel notes, and those warming spices bring everything together into a symphony of flavor.

4 lbs granny smith and honey crisp apples, cored and quartered (peels on!): Combining tart and sweet apples enhances the complexity and natural sweetness of the finished apple butter.
½ cup golden brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness; dark brown sugar can be substituted for a richer flavor.
½ cup apple cider: Gives moisture and a lovely apple-forward flavor to complement the fresh fruit.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a subtle aromatic layer to round out the spices.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The classic warm spice that epitomizes all things cozy and autumnal.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds depth and a gentle bite that balances the sweetness perfectly.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a fragrant, nutty undertone that’s unmistakably inviting.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice: Enhances the spice mix with hints of peppery and sweet nuances.
¼ teaspoon coarse salt: Elevates all flavors and keeps the apple butter balanced.

How to Make Instant Pot Apple Butter

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by tossing all your apples, sugars, spices, apple cider, vanilla, and salt straight into the Instant Pot. The beauty of this step is the simplicity—no need to peel the apples since the pressure cooking takes care of softening the skins perfectly. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the spices evenly before sealing your lid.

Step 2: Pressure Cook

Lock the lid securely and set your valve to sealing. Use the manual or pressure cook function on high pressure for 15 minutes. This cooking method not only softens the apples quickly but also allows all those warm flavors to meld beautifully. Once the timer goes off, let the pot release pressure naturally for about 15 to 20 minutes to keep the flavors intact and prevent any splatter when you open it.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

After releasing the pressure, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the apples until silky smooth. If you don’t have one, transferring small batches to a standing blender works as well. This step transforms the chunky, cooked apple mixture into that luscious apple butter texture we all crave.

Step 4: Reduce and Thicken

Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté setting, then adjust the heat to low to avoid splatters. Cook the apple puree uncovered or partially covered for about 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and watch as it thickens to a spreadable, jammy consistency. This final reduction concentrates the flavor and achieves the classic apple butter intensity.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Once thickened to your liking, transfer the apple butter to clean airtight containers and chill. The flavors will only deepen after resting. Your Instant Pot Apple Butter will keep fresh in the fridge for up to one month—ready for anytime you need a burst of cozy sweetness.

How to Serve Instant Pot Apple Butter

Garnishes

While this apple butter is wonderfully rich on its own, sprinkling a bit of freshly chopped nuts, like toasted pecans or walnuts, on top can add a lovely crunch and nutty contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey also makes a nice touch to enhance its natural flavors.

Side Dishes

Instant Pot Apple Butter pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try it alongside warm biscuits or cornbread as a sweet spread or serve it with roasted pork or chicken for a fruity, tangy glaze. It also adds a lovely contrast to sharp cheeses on a charcuterie board.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, swirl the apple butter into your morning oatmeal or yogurt parfaits for a naturally sweet boost. Spread it inside crepes or pancakes for an autumn-inspired breakfast. You can even stir it into your pancake or muffin batter to infuse that spiced apple flavor directly into your baked treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, allow your Instant Pot Apple Butter to cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to a month. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or gifting to friends who appreciate homemade treats.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze apple butter in freezer-safe containers or mason jars, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Properly frozen, it can last up to six months without loss of flavor or texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

Reheat as needed by warming gently on the stovetop over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. This helps bring back that fresh-made flavor and perfect spreadability.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples for Instant Pot Apple Butter?

Absolutely, though a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp gives the most balanced flavor. Using only sweet apples may make it very sugary, while all tart apples might be too sharp. Mixing them creates depth and complexity.

Do I have to peel the apples before cooking?

No peeling is needed when using the Instant Pot. The skins soften during pressure cooking and will blend smoothly into the apple butter, adding natural pectin and fiber.

How thick should Instant Pot Apple Butter be?

It should be thick enough to hold its shape on a spoon but still spreadable. The reduction step lets you control the thickness, so cook longer for a denser spread or less time if you prefer it looser.

Can I make Instant Pot Apple Butter without brown sugar?

Yes, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar, but keep in mind this will change the sweetness and texture. You might want to add a bit of honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.

Is Instant Pot Apple Butter shelf-stable?

Since this recipe does not include preservatives or canning processes, it must be refrigerated or frozen to stay safe and fresh. Always store it in clean, airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own Instant Pot Apple Butter and knowing exactly what’s going into it. This recipe brings the fragrances and cozy vibes of fall straight to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. I encourage you to give it a try and experience firsthand how this easy, flexible, and utterly delicious spread can brighten up your breakfasts, snacks, and even dinners. Once you taste homemade apple butter, store-bought just won’t compare!

Instant Pot Apple Butter Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 13 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 4 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Instant Pot Apple Butter recipe transforms fresh Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples into a smooth, flavorful spread infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Sweetened with golden brown sugar and enhanced with vanilla extract, this homemade apple butter is perfect for toast, baking, or as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite dishes. The Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process while preserving rich flavors and natural sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

4 lbs Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples, cored and quartered (peels on)

Sweeteners

½ cup golden brown sugar (or dark brown sugar)
½ cup apple cider

Spices and Flavorings

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon coarse salt

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Place the quartered apples (with peels), golden brown sugar, apple cider, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and coarse salt into the Instant Pot. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid in place and ensure the steam valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting, and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure. Allow the Instant Pot to complete its cooking cycle.
Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time ends, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 15 to 20 minutes. After this period, carefully turn the valve to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
Blend the Apples: Using an immersion blender or a standing blender, purée the cooked apple mixture inside the pot until it becomes smooth and creamy. Be cautious as the mixture will be hot.
Simmer to Thicken: Turn on the sauté function on the Instant Pot and adjust the heat to low using the ‘adjust’ button to prevent splattering. Cook the blended apple butter uncovered or partially covered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the desired thick consistency is achieved.
Store and Chill: Transfer the finished apple butter to an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Store in the fridge for up to one month for best freshness and flavor.

Notes

Using a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples provides a balanced flavor profile.
You can substitute dark brown sugar for golden brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
For a smoother texture, peel the apples before cooking if preferred, though leaving peels on adds fiber and nutrients.
Adjust spices to taste, adding more cinnamon or cloves for a spicier apple butter.
Ensure to naturally release pressure after cooking to avoid splattering and maintain the best texture.
Store apple butter in sterilized jars if planning to preserve longer, or freeze in portions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Spread/Condiment
Method: Instant Pot Pressure Cooking and Sauté Thickening
Cuisine: American