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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 60
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 0.1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: apple butter, instant pot apple butter, homemade apple butter, apple spread, fall recipes, easy apple butter