The Best Instant Pot Apple Cider Recipe

This cider is ideal for any occasion and is perfect for chilly days, holiday gatherings, or just when you need a little comfort in a mug.

The Instant Pot pressure cooker makes it easy to brew a batch while you focus on other things, and your home will smell amazing in the process! Serve it warm at a family dinner, take it with you to a tailgate, or enjoy it curled up on the couch.

Since you are here and love apple recipes, check out this Easy Dutch Apple Pie Bars with Crumble Recipe, this Instant Pot Apple Sauce Recipe, or this Apple Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Crisp.

Ingredients for this instant pot apple cider recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make your own apple cider. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the full detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Tart Apples: You can use a mixed variety of apples to include multiple different flavors.
• Orange: adds a citrusy note that enhances the overall fruitiness. You will want it to be sliced.
• Cinnamon Sticks: infuse the cider with warm, spicy flavor and a comforting aroma that will make your house smell amazing.
• Whole Cloves: contribute an earthy spice that deepens the overall flavor.
• Star Anise: add warm, aromatic and slightly licorice-like flavors to the apple cider.
• Fresh Ginger: brings a zesty, slightly spicy note, cutting through the sweetness and adding a refreshing warmth. You will also want this to be sliced.
• Allspice and Nutmeg: add warmth and give the cider a rich, autumnal flavor.
• Brown Sugar or Honey: sweeten the homemade cider and contribute a caramel-like richness to the warming spices. Of course, you can always just use the sweetener of your choice.
• Water: acts as the cooking medium, helping to extract the flavors from the fruits and spices to create a flavorful, spiced apple cider.

How to make this homemade instant pot apple cider recipe

This is how you can make this warm apple cider. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the full detailed instructions! 

1. Rinse the apples thoroughly and cut them into large chunks, leaving the peel on but removing the cores. Peel and slice the orange into large chunks.
2. Place the apples and orange slices into the Instant Pot.
3. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger, allspice, and sweetener (if you’re using it) into the large pot.
4. Pour in 10-12 cups of water, making sure there’s enough water that the fruit is fully submerged.
5. Secure the lid, switch the valve to “Sealing,” and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on High pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to leave through a natural release for 20 minutes afterward.
6. Once done, open the lid and use a potato masher to crush the apples and oranges, releasing their flavors.
7. Strain the warm cider through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl, pressing the fruit to extract as much juice as possible.
8. Taste the tart apple cider and adjust the sweetness as needed, then serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh orange slices or cinnamon sticks.
9. Enjoy your own homemade apple cider!

Why do you need to make this pressure cooker apple cider recipe?

• This easy recipe only requires a handful of ingredients that you can quickly find at any grocery store.
• It’s a great way to enjoy a beverage made from fresh fruit during this time of year.
• You can customize its flavors to make it taste however you want!

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

What kind of apples should I use?

The best mix of apples would include Gala apples, Fuji apples, Pink Lady and Granny Smith Apples. But you realistically can use any type of apple, especially if you have a specific favorite. That’s what’s so great about this!

​Can I use different kinds of sweeteners?

Of course! An uncommon but clever way to add more festive flavor is by using maple syrup as the sweetener! If you want to add sweetener without altering the flavor, you can always just use granulated white sugar.

Why do we keep the peels on the fruit?

The peels add an abundance of extra flavor, plus it just makes the whole thing that much more simple and quick. They’ll be strained out at the end, so you won’t even notice them.

Can you make this recipe without an Instant Pot or pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make this on the stovetop or crockpot slow cooker! For the stove methos simply simmer the ingredients in a large pot for 1-2 hours, then follow the same steps to mash and strain the mixture.

For the instant pot method cook everything on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours then follow the same instructions as the main recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store the apple cider in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days in an airtight container. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again if you want it warm.

The Best Instant Pot Apple Cider Recipe

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