Perfect for fall, this Instant Pot Apple Cider is a must-try. It’s simple to make with just a few ingredients and packed with warm autumn flavors.
EASY APPLE CIDER RECIPE
If you ask me, apple cider is the ultimate fall beverage. While pumpkin spice has its place, a steaming mug of apple cider is cozy, comforting, and versatile. Serve it plain, warm it for a quiet evening, or spike it for a festive gathering.
This Instant Pot version takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy go-to for the season.
HOMEMADE APPLE CIDER
Homemade apple cider has a depth of flavor you won’t get from store-bought blends. Simmered apples with cinnamon and nutmeg create a rich, fragrant drink that’s perfect for holiday entertaining or quiet evenings at home.
This Instant Pot method is quick and fuss-free, so you can enjoy homemade cider often without the prep time of traditional stovetop versions.
Scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredient list and step-by-step instructions.
HOT APPLE CIDER INGREDIENTS
For this homemade apple cider you’ll need:
- Cinnamon: A large cinnamon stick works great; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon can be used instead.
- Nutmeg: Ground nutmeg adds warm, aromatic depth.
- Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart—Gala and Granny Smith are ideal.
- Orange: One orange, sliced, adds bright citrus notes.
- Lemon juice: A bit of lemon juice brightens the fruit flavors.
- Water: Enough to cover the fruit in the Instant Pot (about 8–10 cups).
- Brown sugar: Optional, for a sweeter cider.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE CIDER
Printable recipe and detailed steps are below.
- Prepare the fruit: Core and slice the apples evenly. Slice the orange (peel optional).
- Add to the Instant Pot: Place apples, orange slices, nutmeg, and cinnamon in the pot. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fruit.
- Add water: Pour in enough water to cover the fruit—about 8–10 cups, depending on the size of your Instant Pot.
- Cook: Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 18 minutes. When finished, carefully release the pressure and remove the lid.
- Mash and strain: Lightly mash the cooked fruit with a potato masher to extract juice. Strain the mixture through a mesh sieve into a pitcher or pot.
- Sweeten and serve: Stir in brown sugar to taste, if desired. Serve hot in mugs and enjoy.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS
You can use any apple varieties you prefer. A mix of sweet and tart apples gives the best balance; if you only use very sweet or very tart apples, adjust sweetener accordingly.
MAKING A SPIKED CIDER
To spike your cider, bourbon works wonderfully, but rum, brandy, or apple-flavored liqueurs are also excellent choices. Reduce the water slightly when adding alcohol and taste—add a bit of honey or extra sugar if the alcohol changes the sweetness balance.
STORAGE
Store leftover cider in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or serve chilled over ice for a refreshing cold cider.
Instant Pot Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 1 large cinnamon stick, or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 6 apples (suggested: 2 Gala, 4 Granny Smith)
- 1 large orange
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 8–10 cups water (enough to cover the fruit)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Core and slice the apples. Slice the orange; peeling is optional.
- Place apples, orange slices, nutmeg, and cinnamon into the Instant Pot. Squeeze lemon juice over the fruit.
- Pour in enough water to cover the fruit.
- Pressure cook on high for 18 minutes. Carefully release pressure and remove the lid.
- Lightly mash the fruit with a potato masher to release more juice, then strain through a mesh sieve.
- Sweeten with brown sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Any apple variety can be used; mixing sweet and tart apples gives balanced flavor.
- To make a spiked cider, add bourbon, rum, or brandy. Reduce water slightly and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Stored in the fridge, the cider will keep for about two weeks. Reheat gently or serve chilled.
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