I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
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This cozy InstantPot Apple Butter captures all the best flavors of fall – apples, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla, without any refined sugar. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour, it’s a naturally sweet spread you’ll want to enjoy on everything from toast to oatmeal (or straight from the jar).
There’s simply something about homemade apple butter that instantly brings warmth to your kitchen. The scent of apples and cinnamon filling the air feels like the essence of fall, but this version skips the refined sugar you find in most apple butters and relies on the natural sweetness of the apples themselves.
I love using a mix of Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith apples for the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The InstantPot makes the whole process hands-off and foolproof. Trust me, you’ll never want to buy store-bought apple butter again. It’s perfect on toast, swirled into oatmeal, or even whisked into sauces for savory dishes.
INGREDIENTS
6 pounds of apples : use a mix of Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp for depth of flavor.
Water or apple cider : cider intensifies the apple flavor, while water keeps it light.
Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg : the classic spice trio for warmth and balance.
Sea salt : enhances the natural sweetness.
Vanilla extract : added after cooking for the perfect finish.
EQUIPMENT
InstantPot or electric pressure cooker
Immersion blender (or regular blender)
Airtight containers or jars for storing
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Apples : Core and slice apples (no need to peel) and add them to the InstantPot with water or apple cider.
Add Seasonings : Stir in cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Pressure Cook : Secure the lid and set to Manual (High Pressure) for 20 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
Natural Release : Let pressure release naturally for 15 – 20 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to “Venting”.
Blend and Simmer : Switch to “Sauté” mode and simmer for 10 – 15 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Allow to cool, then either blend with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
Finish : Stir in vanilla extract and taste, adjusting spices as needed.
Store : Cool completely before transferring to airtight jars for storing.
TIPS FOR PERFECT APPLE BUTTER
For a deeper flavor, replace water with apple cider.
Want it thicker? Simmer longer on sauté mode, stirring frequently.
Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for a subtle twist. You can even simply use my Homemade Apple Pie Spice!
The longer it cools, the thicker it gets, so don’t over-reduce.
STORAGE TIPS
Store in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months). Leave space at the top of jars for expansion.
This makes a wonderful homemade gift – just add a ribbon and label!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to peel the apples?
No! The skins soften as they cook and blend seamlessly into the butter for extra fiber and flavor.
Can I make this without an InstantPot?
Yes. Cook apples on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until soft (2 – 3 hours), then blend and simmer to reduce.
How can I make it sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add 1 – 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey after blending.
What’s the difference between apple sauce and apple butter?
Apple butter is thicker, richer, and more caramelized. It cooks longer to concentrate the natural sugars.
Homemade Apple Butter makes a thoughtful gift for fall gatherings. Spoon into small glass jars, tie with a ribbon, and add a simple handwritten tag. It’s a charming hostess gift or take-home treat after a dinner party.
This is one of those simple touches that makes entertaining feel extra special. Serve it warm with biscuits or cornbread during brunch or pair it with cheeses on a fall grazing board.
For a cozy morning gathering, I love adding a jar to a breakfast spread alongside yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit. It’s an easy way to bring a seasonal made-from-scratch moment to the table.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor
Add maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness if desired
Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Category:Sauces & Condiments
Method:InstantPot
Cuisine:American
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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