Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider Recipe

Welcome to the coziest, most flavor-packed sip of the season! Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider is autumn in a mug: lush with orchard apples, infused with citrus and warm spices, sweetened gently, and brightened with velvety pumpkin puree. Each pour is a celebration of fall flavors, effortlessly crafted in your pressure cooker. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or nesting at home on a chilly day, this cider wraps everyone in familiar, nostalgic comfort—no bubbling pots or constant stirring required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider plays a starring role, combining to create a rich, complex cider with nuanced flavors. The balance of apples, citrus, spice, and pumpkin makes this drink unforgettable and beautifully layered.

• Apples: Use 3 Honey Crisp and 3 Granny Smith apples, sliced in rounds, for the perfect blend of tang and sweetness that forms the cider’s delicious backbone.
• Lemon: Half a lemon, sliced, adds a bright, zesty kick and keeps the drink from being overly sweet.
• Orange: Half an orange, sliced, offers fragrant citrus notes and a touch of gentle acidity.
• Water: Six cups help extract the best from all your fruits and meld everything together.
• Cinnamon sticks: Two sticks infuse the cider with that warming, spicy-sweet flavor we crave in fall drinks.
• Star anise (optional): Adds a hint of aromatic licorice and sophistication—skip it if you prefer a more classic taste.
• Vanilla extract: A tablespoon rounds out the spice and brings all the flavors together with a soft finish.
• Maple syrup: Half a cup of this liquid gold provides a mellow, earthy sweetness that complements both pumpkin and apple.
• Pumpkin puree: One and one-third cups give the cider its signature creamy body and unmissable autumn flavor.
• Pumpkin spice: Half a tablespoon ensures every sip tastes like the essence of fall!

How to Make Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider

Step 1: Add Fruit and Spices to the Instant Pot

Begin by piling your sliced apples, lemon, and orange into the Instant Pot. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise if you’re using it, and vanilla extract. Pour in the water, making sure all the fruits are mostly submerged. This medley is your flavor foundation—don’t rush it or skimp here; each element brings something special!

Step 2: Pressure Cook

Secure the Instant Pot lid and cook everything on high pressure for 15 minutes. This is where the magic really happens: the apples and citrus break down, mingling with the spices to release a fragrant, deeply flavorful juice.

Step 3: Natural Release and Cool Down

Allow your Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider to rest for 10 minutes—use the natural release so the flavors keep developing. Then quick-release whatever pressure remains and take off the lid. Let the cider cool completely for easier (and safer) straining in the next step.

Step 4: Strain the Cider

Once the mixture is cool, place a colander lined with cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Carefully pour in the contents and let the cider strain through, then gather up the cheesecloth and gently squeeze out as much juice as possible. Discard the leftover fruit—it has given up all its flavor!

Step 5: Add Pumpkin and Sweetener

Pour the strained cider back into the (cleaned) Instant Pot or a large mixing bowl. Whisk in the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice until silky-smooth and well incorporated. Now, your Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider is thick, aromatic, and perfectly sweetened.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Decide whether you’re serving your cider warm or chilled. Ladle into mugs and and, if you’re feeling festive, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel for true fall decadence!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider

Garnishes

Take your Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider to the next level with easy but impressive garnishes. The classic combo is a soft cloud of whipped cream, dusted with cinnamon or nutmeg, and a caramel drizzle. For extra flair, add a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice as a cozy stirrer right in each mug.

Side Dishes

This cider pairs delightfully with autumn staples like spiced scones, pumpkin bread, warm cinnamon rolls, or a crisp apple galette. The spices and citrus notes in the drink complement sweet pastries and subtly flavored cheeses, making it perfect for a brunch spread or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider in a crock with a ladle, letting guests build their own perfect mug with assorted toppings: cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, or even a splash of bourbon for adults. Or, freeze into ice pops for a whimsical fall treat, or pour over crushed ice in mason jars for a rustic, farm-stand feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider keeps beautifully in the fridge! Pour the cooled cider into a tightly sealed glass jar or pitcher and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to five days, making it easy to warm up a mug whenever the craving strikes.

Freezing

Want to enjoy that cozy fall flavor outside of apple season? Pour fully cooled Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the desired amount on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave for individual mugs. Whisk well if the pumpkin has settled, and avoid boiling to keep the flavors balanced and vibrant. You can also reheat right in your Instant Pot on the sauté setting for ease!

FAQs

Can I use different apple varieties?

Absolutely! Mixing sweet varieties (like Fuji or Gala) with tart ones (such as Granny Smith) gives great depth, but you can use whatever apples you have on hand—the recipe is very forgiving. Just aim for a balance for the best results.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

If maple syrup isn’t available, honey or agave syrup both work well, though each will slightly alter the flavor. Plain granulated sugar can also be used in a pinch—start with less, then adjust to taste after mixing.

Can I make Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can prepare the cider a day or two in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it just before serving. This also gives the flavors more time to meld, resulting in an even richer taste.

Is the pumpkin flavor strong?

The pumpkin in Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider brings a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of savory autumn flavor, but it doesn’t overpower the apple and spice notes. It’s a gentle presence that ties the drink together beautifully.

What if I don’t have cheesecloth for straining?

No worries! You can use a fine mesh sieve, a clean kitchen towel, or even several layers of paper towels. Just strain slowly and patiently—the clearer the cider, the better the drinking experience.

Final Thoughts

If you adore the flavors of fall and want something uniquely special yet easy, make a batch of Instant Pot Pumpkin Apple Cider soon. From the first fragrant simmer to the last cozy sip, you’ll fall head over heels for this comfort-in-a-cup—and so will everyone you share it with!

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