Instant Pot Apple Cider

INTRODUCTION

Apple cider is a warm and comforting drink that many people enjoy, especially in the fall. The smell of fresh apples, spices, and warmth can bring a smile to anyone’s face. Making apple cider at home can be a fun activity, and using an Instant Pot makes it easy and quick. This Instant Pot Apple Cider recipe will help you create a delicious drink that your family and friends will love. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a tasty cider ready to enjoy in no time.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love this Instant Pot Apple Cider recipe. First, it is simple and easy to make. You don’t need fancy equipment or skills. Just chop some fruits, add spices, and let the Instant Pot do the work. Second, this recipe uses fresh apples and spices, ensuring that your cider is full of rich flavors. Your home will smell wonderful as it cooks!

Another great thing about this recipe is that you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Some people enjoy a sweeter cider, while others prefer it more tart. You can add honey or brown sugar to taste. Plus, this is a perfect drink for gatherings or cozy evenings.

Lastly, making your apple cider at home means you know exactly what is in it. You can avoid preservatives and enjoy a drink made from natural ingredients, making it healthier.

HOW TO MAKE Instant Pot Apple Cider

Making Instant Pot Apple Cider is quick and straightforward. Here is a simple guide on how to do it. Follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious cider ready to warm you up.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this Instant Pot Apple Cider, you will need:

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Knife for chopping
• Cutting board
• Potato masher
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for straining
• Large bowl for collecting the cider

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8-10 medium apples (mixed varieties like Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith)
• 1 large orange (peeled and sliced)
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 4-5 whole cloves
• 1-2 star anise
• 1 inch piece of fresh ginger (sliced)
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice ground
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup brown sugar or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
• 10-12 cups water

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Wash and roughly chop the apples. You don’t need to peel them, just remove the cores.
2. Peel and slice the orange into rounds.
3. Place the chopped apples and orange slices in the Instant Pot.
4. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, sliced ginger, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and sweetener if you choose to use it.
5. Pour in 10-12 cups of water. Make sure it covers all the fruit.
6. Lock the lid of the Instant Pot, and set it to pressure cook on High for 15 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release the pressure for 20 minutes.
8. Carefully open the lid. Use a potato masher to mash the apples and oranges together. This helps to release all the flavors.
9. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Press the fruit to get all the liquid out.
10. Taste your cider! Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or brown sugar if you like. Serve warm, and garnish with extra orange slices or cinnamon sticks if desired.

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HOW TO SERVE Instant Pot Apple Cider

Instant Pot Apple Cider is best enjoyed warm. You can serve it in mugs for a cozy feeling, perfect for chilly days. You may also want to add some fun garnishes like extra orange slices or even an extra cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation. This drink is perfect for gatherings, fall parties, or simply sipping by the fire. It also goes great with baked goods like apple pie, pumpkin bread, or cinnamon rolls.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Instant Pot Apple Cider

If you have leftover cider, you can store it in the refrigerator. Pour it into a sealable container and it will keep well for about a week. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

If you want to freeze the cider for later, you can do that too. Freeze it in an airtight container, leaving some space at the top because liquid expands when frozen. The cider can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

While Instant Pot Apple Cider is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a few serving suggestions. Here are some ideas:

• Add Alcohol: For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or whiskey for a warm, spiced drink.
• Serve with Snacks: Pair your cider with popcorn, cheese platters, or apple slices with caramel for a tasty treat.
• Make it a Breakfast Drink: Pour it over oatmeal or pancakes for a fun breakfast idea.
• Host a Cider Tasting: Make different variations of the recipe and let your friends choose their favorites.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways you can change your Instant Pot Apple Cider recipe to suit your tastes or make it more interesting. Here are a few variations:

• Add Different Fruits: Try adding pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile. They can bring a unique taste to your cider.
• Change the Spices: Experiment with other spices such as cardamom, vanilla beans, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for warmth.
• Make it Herbal: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Sweeteners: Instead of sugar or honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetening option.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought apple juice instead of fresh apples?
A1: Yes, you can use store-bought apple juice, but using fresh apples gives a richer flavor. If using juice, skip the water and simmer it with spices.

Q2: Is the cider safe for kids?
A2: Yes, this cider is non-alcoholic and safe for children to enjoy.

Q3: How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A3: You can make this in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q4: Can I adjust the spices?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you dislike a certain spice, you can leave it out.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Instant Pot Apple Cider

If you want to prepare your apple cider in advance, here are some tips:

• Chop in Advance: You can chop the apples and slices of orange the day before. Store them in the fridge in a sealed container.
• Spice Mix: Pre-mix the spices and store them in a small jar so that they are ready to go when you cook.
• Cook Early: Make the cider early in the day, and it will be ready to serve later. Just reheat it before serving to guests.

This Instant Pot Apple Cider recipe is a simple, comforting way to enjoy a warm drink. With easy ingredients and quick steps, you are sure to make this a new favorite. Enjoy your homemade apple cider!

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