Delicious Instant Pot Apple Cider Recipe
This Instant Pot Apple Cider recipe offers a delicious drink for the holiday season. Made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a delightful winter beverage you can prepare in under an hour with minimal effort.
Serve this delightful drink warm at family dinners, take it to tailgates, or enjoy it cozy on the couch. If you’re a fan of apple recipes, be sure to check out some related treats like Easy Dutch Apple Pie Bars, Instant Pot Apple Sauce, and Apple Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Crisp.
Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Apple Cider
To create your homemade apple cider, gather these key ingredients. Full measurements are detailed in the recipe card below.
- Tart Apples: A mix of apple varieties adds delicious flavor.
- Orange: Sliced to impart a refreshing citrus note that enhances the cider.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Deliver warm, spicy flavors and a comforting aroma.
- Whole Cloves: Contribute an earthy, spicy depth.
- Star Anise: Adds an aromatic, slightly licorice flavor to the mix.
- Fresh Ginger: Sliced to bring zesty warmth that cuts through sweetness.
- Allspice and Nutmeg: Together, these spices contribute a warm, autumnal experience.
- Brown Sugar or Honey: Use to sweeten the cider with a rich, caramel-like note; adjust to your taste.
- Water: Essential for extracting flavors from the fruits and spices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Apple Cider
Follow these straightforward steps to concoct warm apple cider. Detailed instructions have been included in the recipe card below.
- Begin by rinsing the apples and cutting them into large chunks, leaving the peels intact and removing the cores. Peel and chop the orange into similar-sized pieces.
- In your Instant Pot, add the apple and orange chunks.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, sliced ginger, allspice, and any sweetener you’re using.
- Pour in enough water (about 10-12 cups) to submerge the fruits completely.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on High for 15 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 20 minutes afterwards.
- Once the pressure is released, open the lid and use a potato masher to mash the fruits, releasing their flavors.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, ensuring you press the fruit to extract all the juice.
- Adjust the sweetness of your cider as needed before serving. Optionally garnish with fresh orange slices or cinnamon sticks.
- Enjoy your homemade apple cider!
Reasons to Love This Instant Pot Apple Cider Recipe
- This simple recipe requires only a few easily accessible ingredients from your grocery store.
- It’s a delightful way to enjoy a drink made with fresh fruit at any time of the year.
- The flavor is customizable to your liking, giving you the freedom to experiment!
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
What kind of apples should I use for this cider?
The best combination includes Gala, Fuji, Pink Lady, and Granny Smith apples. However, you can use any apples you have on hand for this versatile recipe!
Can I use other sweeteners in this recipe?
Absolutely! Maple syrup is a delightful, festive option for sweetening. If you prefer a neutral flavor, granulated white sugar works well too.
Why do we keep the peels on the fruit?
The peels add extra flavor and simplify the process, as they can be easily strained out later.
Can you make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can prepare the cider on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Simmer the ingredients in a large pot for 1-2 hours, then mash and strain as directed above. For the slow cooker, cook everything on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours before mashing and straining.
How do I store leftovers?
Your apple cider can be kept in the refrigerator for 5-7 days in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you wish to enjoy it again.
