Description
A cozy and flavorful Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider that combines the natural sweetness of apples and pumpkin with warm spices. Perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you crave a comforting drink, this cider is easy to make with just a few fresh fruits and pantry staples.
Ingredients
Fruits & Liquids
- 6 apples (3 Honey Crisp and 3 Granny Smith), sliced into rounds
- 1/2 lemon, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 orange, sliced into rounds
- 6 cups water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Spices & Sweeteners
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 1/3 cups pumpkin puree
- 1/2 tablespoon pumpkin spice
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by slicing the apples, lemon, and orange into rounds. Gather all the spices and liquids you'll need, including cinnamon sticks, star anise, vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice.
- Add to Instant Pot: Place the sliced fruits, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and vanilla extract into the Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Ensure the lid is sealed properly.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to infuse deeply into the cider.
- Release Pressure and Cool: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release to remove any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid and let the cider cool completely.
- Strain the Cider: Using a colander lined with cheesecloth, strain the cooked fruits, squeezing out as much juice as possible to capture all the flavors. Discard the fruit solids.
- Mix in Pumpkin and Sweetener: Stir in the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Serve: Enjoy the cider warm or chilled. For an extra special touch, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel, if desired.
Notes
- If you don't have star anise, you can omit it or substitute with a small piece of whole cloves.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup according to your taste.
- For a thicker consistency, add a bit more pumpkin puree.
- Store leftover cider in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheat gently before serving.
- This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by using vegan whipped cream toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
