Learn how to make this flavorful cider using a simple, step-by-step recipe with your Instant Pot. Plus, it’s a dump-and-start recipe, and there’s even a video tutorial to follow along!
Why I Started Making Apple Cider in the Instant Pot?
Every fall, I love making apple cider from scratch for my family. I used to simmer it in a large pot on the stove top for over 2 hours, checking it every so often. But once I started using my Instant Pot, I love the convenience. Now, I can set it and forget it until it’s done. No more constant stirring!The best part? As soon as the pressure cooker starts, my whole house fills with the wonderful aroma of apples, citrus, and spices. It makes me feel like Christmas is just around the corner! In just 30 minutes, you can make this delicious apple cider with only 8 ingredients.If you’re looking for more holiday recipes, don’t miss my alcohol free drink - Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine recipe, Cranberry Mojito or my Christmas Cranberry Sauce and Christmas Star Bread—perfect for festive gatherings.
Why Make Homemade Apple Cider?
Customizable: Add or leave out any ingredients you like.Simple: This is a dump-and-start recipe, so no fuss!Festive: Add flavors that’s Perfect for fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.Versatile: Add rum or wine for a spiked version if you like!
Ingredients
You’ll only need 8 simple ingredients—many of which you likely have at home already:Apples: I use a mix of Gala and Granny Smith apples for a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Choose what you have at home - Pink Lady, Fuji, Honey Crisp apples.Citrus Fruits: Oranges and lemons add brightness. Feel free to use just oranges if you prefer.Fresh Cranberries: These bring a festive touch. If cranberries aren’t available, you can leave them out.Spices: Cinnamon sticks, star anise, and whole cloves give warmth. Nutmeg is optional, or use allspice powder if you don’t have whole spices.Fresh Ginger (optional): Add for extra warmth.Sweetener: Brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, honey, or even dates—choose what works for you.
Step 1-2: Start by washing the fruits and cutting them into quarters or discs. No need to be precise since they’ll be muddled and strained later. Add apples, oranges and cranberries (if in season) to the Instant Pot. Cranberries add a nice flavor, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer. Pro Tip: Insert the whole cloves into the orange peel—this makes it easier to remove them after cooking, though it’s optional. Step 3: Next, add your sweetener of choice and spices and pour enough water to cover the fruit. Press the fruit down with a spatula to ensure they’re submerged, and add more water if needed. Step 4: Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Step 5-6:Remove and discard the spices. Mash the cooked fruit with a potato masher to extract all the delicious flavors. Step 7:Finally, strain the cider through a fine-mesh strainer. Step 8: Enjoy it hot or cold!
In warmer months, try serving it chilled for a refreshing drink.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover apple cider in a glass bottle / mason jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat it or enjoy it cold, whichever you prefer! Enjoy this easy, festive drink all season long!
You will also love to try this festive recipe this holiday season
Instant Pot Apple Butter Cranberry Mojito 10 minutes Eggless Tiramisu Jars Vegetarian Christmas Pudding Air fryer Baked Apples
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