Easy Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce: Your Ultimate Fall Recipe for a Wholesome & Flavorful Treat
For many, the crisp autumn air signals the delightful arrival of pumpkin and apple flavors. This Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce perfectly marries these two beloved tastes, offering a delicious homemade treat that captures the essence of fall without forcing you to choose a favorite. Crafted with just a handful of simple ingredients, this seasonal delight comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for busy days. And fret not if you don’t own a pressure cooker; we’ve included comprehensive instructions for preparing this versatile recipe on your stovetop or in your trusty slow cooker, ensuring everyone can enjoy its heartwarming goodness.
Just yesterday, I found myself telling my husband how much I cherish living in a place where we experience the beauty of all four distinct seasons each year. We were reflecting on summer’s gentle fade, and I might have received a playful side-eye when I confessed that autumn still holds the top spot as my absolute favorite time of year. While I always feel a tinge of sadness as summer concludes, the abundance of joys that fall brings, especially its iconic flavors, truly softens that transition. There’s an undeniable magic in the air, a certain coziness that permeates everything, from the vibrant foliage to the comforting aromas wafting from the kitchen. This pumpkin applesauce is a prime example of those delightful autumn sensations, bringing warmth and a medley of spices into your home and heart.
Why This Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce Is a Must-Make Fall Treat
This pumpkin applesauce recipe stands out for its incredible simplicity and the hands-off convenience it offers. Your Instant Pot or pressure cooker handles the majority of the work, allowing you to create a homemade delicacy with minimal effort. If you have a fondness for applesauce, this recipe is an absolute game-changer. It generously delivers a bounty of quintessential fall flavors, from the sweet tartness of apples to the earthy notes of pumpkin, all elevated by an exquisite blend of warm spices. The aroma alone as it cooks will transform your home into a haven of autumnal bliss, making every corner smell utterly amazing.
Furthermore, this recipe caters to all texture preferences. Whether your ideal applesauce is rustic and delightfully chunky, offering a satisfying bite, or incredibly smooth and velvety, perfect for a spoon or a spread, we’ve got you covered with simple adjustment tips. This versatile pumpkin applesauce is also an excellent substitute for regular applesauce in many recipes, infusing a seasonal twist into your favorite baked goods. Imagine the enhanced flavor in recipes like Banana Applesauce Oatmeal Bread, a rich and comforting Applesauce Coffee Cake, or my beloved Easy Applesauce Bread with Chocolate Chips. Using this spiced pumpkin version will elevate these classics to a whole new level of fall deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Pumpkin Applesauce
Crafting this delightful pumpkin pie applesauce is remarkably straightforward, requiring only a few key ingredients. You’ll find all precise measurements and detailed instructions conveniently located in the printable recipe card at the very bottom of this post.
- Apples – The heart of any great applesauce! While I personally favor the vibrant tartness of Granny Smith and the sweet-tart balance of Pink Lady apples for their excellent baking qualities and firm texture, nearly any crisp, flavorful baking apple will yield fantastic results. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Braeburn are also excellent choices, each contributing its unique profile to the final flavor.
- Apple Juice or Apple Cider – This liquid component does more than just provide moisture; it intensifies the inherent apple flavor of your applesauce, creating a richer, more profound taste. However, if you’re aiming to reduce the sugar content, plain water can be used as a simple substitute without compromising the texture.
- Pumpkin Purée – A crucial ingredient for that authentic fall taste. It’s essential to use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling typically contains added sugars and spices, which would alter the delicate flavor balance of this recipe. Look for cans clearly labeled “100% Pure Pumpkin.”
- Salt – Just a pinch of salt plays an indispensable role in any sweet recipe. It acts as a flavor enhancer, bringing out the natural sweetness of the apples and pumpkin, and harmonizing all the spices for a more complex and satisfying taste.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – The signature spice blend that truly brings this applesauce to life with its warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, apple pie spice makes an excellent alternative. For those who enjoy customizing, I offer both Homemade Apple Pie Spice and Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice recipes directly on my website, allowing you to mix your own perfect blend!
How to Make Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making homemade pumpkin applesauce in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect fall treat every time.
Step One: Prepare Your Apples
Begin by thoroughly washing your chosen apples. Then, carefully peel, core, and cut them into uniform, roughly 1-inch chunks. Consistency in size ensures that all apple pieces cook evenly in the Instant Pot, resulting in a perfectly tender applesauce.
Step Two: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Place all the prepared apple chunks evenly at the bottom of your Instant Pot or pressure cooker insert. To prevent the apples from browning while you gather the remaining ingredients, you can squeeze the juice of half a lemon over them – this step is entirely optional but recommended for preserving their vibrant color. Next, pour in the apple juice or cider, add the smooth pumpkin purée, sprinkle in the pinch of salt, and finally, add the fragrant pumpkin pie spice. These ingredients will meld together to create a symphony of fall flavors.
Give all the ingredients a gentle stir to ensure they are well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the apple and pumpkin mixture.
Step Three: Pressure Cook
Securely place the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure it’s properly sealed. Confirm that the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
Step Four: Release Pressure
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes. This natural release period is crucial as it helps the apples to finish tenderizing and prevents foam from sputtering through the vent. After 5 minutes of natural release, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position for a quick manual release of any remaining pressure. Once the floating pin drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
Step Five: Achieve Your Desired Consistency
Immediately after opening the Instant Pot, you can customize your applesauce texture. For a rustic, chunky applesauce that offers a satisfying bite, use a sturdy potato masher to gently mash the hot apples directly in the pot until you reach your preferred consistency. If you prefer a velvety smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture directly in the pot until it’s completely smooth and free of chunks. Alternatively, you can transfer the cooked mixture in batches to a regular blender or food processor, being cautious when blending hot liquids, until it reaches a silky texture. Allow it to cool slightly before serving or storing.
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If you’re already envisioning this delightful Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce gracing your table, make sure you don’t lose track of this fantastic recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board right now so you can easily find it whenever those fall cravings hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) About Pumpkin & Applesauce
What are the best uses for pumpkin purée?
Pumpkin purée is most commonly celebrated in classic autumnal baking, forming the base for delicious pies, quick breads, cakes, and muffins. However, its versatility extends far beyond the dessert realm! In addition to this wonderful applesauce recipe, you can effortlessly stir it into your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast boost. Integrate it into your pancake and waffle batter for a seasonal twist. Blend some into milkshakes and smoothies for added creaminess and nutrients. Pumpkin purée can also lend a beautiful color and a subtle earthy sweetness to savory dishes like curries, stews, and even creamy soups, helping to thicken them naturally. For a truly unique and comforting meal, stir it together with ricotta cheese and use it as a rich filling in your pasta dishes. Ever considered Pumpkin Lasagna? Absolutely, it’s a revelation!
Can pumpkin purée be substituted for applesauce in recipes?
Yes, in most baking recipes, you can generally substitute pumpkin purée for applesauce in a 1:1 ratio. Both are excellent for adding moisture and can reduce the need for fats like oil or butter. Keep in mind that pumpkin purée has a distinct, earthy flavor profile that will influence the final taste of your dish, whereas applesauce offers a fruitier, often sweeter note. Adjust spices accordingly to complement the pumpkin flavor.
How can I make pumpkin purée taste even better?
To truly elevate the flavor of plain pumpkin purée, your spice cabinet is your best friend! Incorporating warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves can transform its mild taste. Pumpkin pie spice, a pre-blended mix of these very aromatics, was practically “born” to make pumpkin purée sing with vibrant, cozy flavors! While pumpkin purée already possesses a subtle natural sweetness, you can enhance it further by adding a touch of brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute to taste. A tiny pinch of salt can also amplify all the other flavors. For an even richer taste, consider whisking in a pat of butter or a splash of vanilla extract.
Can homemade pumpkin purée be frozen for later use?
Absolutely, freezing pumpkin purée is a fantastic way to preserve it and reduce food waste! I highly recommend freezing an entire 15 oz can’s worth in a quart-size zip-top bag, flattened for easy storage. Another convenient method is to freeze ½-cup portions in a muffin tin until solid, then transfer these frozen “pucks” to a gallon zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container. This allows you to thaw just the amount you need for future recipes. Properly stored in the freezer, pumpkin purée will maintain its quality for up to a year, ready to be used in countless dishes.
Pumpkin Applesauce Recipe Substitutions for Customization:
- Apples – While Granny Smith and Pink Lady are excellent for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you truly have a lot of flexibility here. Any firm, crisp baking apple will work wonderfully. Consider Honeycrisp for extra sweetness and crunch, Golden Delicious for a milder, sweeter flavor, or Braeburn for a good balance. The key is to choose apples that hold their shape reasonably well but still break down beautifully when cooked. A mix of sweet and tart varieties often yields the most complex and satisfying flavor.
- Apple Juice or Apple Cider – For a slightly healthier version or to reduce overall sugar, you can certainly substitute water for the apple juice or cider. While the juice or cider adds an extra layer of apple-y depth, water will still allow the apples to cook down and absorb the other delicious flavors. If using water, you might want to add a bit more sweetener to taste later.
- Pumpkin Purée – There’s very little direct substitution for 100% pumpkin purée when you want that distinct pumpkin flavor. Your best alternative, if you’re feeling ambitious, is making your own purée from fresh pumpkin. Remember, always double-check your can to ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin and NOT pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – As previously mentioned, apple pie spice can be used as a convenient 1:1 substitute if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice. Alternatively, you can create your own blend using individual spices: combine cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a tiny pinch of cloves. For a subtle, natural cinnamon flavor, simply drop a couple of whole cinnamon sticks into the Instant Pot with the apples and remove them before mashing.
Cooking Variations: Adaptable for Any Kitchen
Beyond the Instant Pot, this versatile pumpkin applesauce can be prepared with equal success using other common kitchen appliances:
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Applesauce: For a truly hands-off approach, combine the peeled and sliced apples, pumpkin purée, apple juice (or water), and pumpkin pie spice directly in your crockpot. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or for a gentler, longer cook, set it to low for 6 hours. The slow cooker will tenderize the apples beautifully, infusing them with all the delightful fall flavors.
Stovetop Pumpkin Applesauce: If you prefer a more traditional method, simply place the prepared sliced apples, pumpkin purée, apple juice (or water), and pumpkin pie spice in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Cover the pot and set it over medium heat. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are thoroughly tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tips and Tricks for Making the BEST Pumpkin Applesauce
- Preventing Oxidation: A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice over your peeled and chopped apples before cooking will significantly reduce browning. Lemon juice contains ascorbic acid, which acts as an antioxidant, keeping your applesauce looking vibrant.
- Adjusting Sweetness: While the apples and juice provide natural sweetness, you can enhance it further if desired. Add 2-4 tablespoons of dark brown sugar for a rich, molasses-like flavor, especially if you opted for water instead of juice. Maple syrup or honey are also wonderful natural sweeteners that complement the fall flavors beautifully. Start with a small amount and add more to taste after cooking.
- Versatile Serving Ideas: This pumpkin applesauce is far more than just a snack. It makes a truly wonderful addition to breakfast; spoon it over pancakes or waffles, stir it into a warm bowl of oatmeal, or swirl it into Greek yogurt for a creamy, spiced treat. It’s also a fantastic condiment for savory dishes!
- Proper Storage: Once your applesauce has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness throughout the week.
- Making it Extra Smooth: If you truly desire a perfectly smooth, baby-food-like consistency without any discernible chunks, consider running the cooked applesauce through a food mill or fine-mesh sieve after blending with an immersion blender.
- Spice Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your preference. If you like a bolder, more intense spice profile, you can add a little extra. A tiny pinch of freshly grated ginger or a dash of allspice can also add intriguing layers of flavor.
More Delicious Apple and Pumpkin Recipes for Fall
Autumn, we are HERE for YOU and all your delicious flavors! Dive into even more ways to enjoy those two yummy fall favorites – apples and pumpkins – with these inspiring recipes:
- Crock Pot Applesauce (pictured above)
- Apple Pumpkin Strudel
- Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
- Banana Pumpkin Muffins
- Classic Pumpkin Bread
- Homemade Pumpkin Butter
Keep this incredible homemade pumpkin applesauce recipe in your culinary arsenal. This spiced, fall-inspired applesauce is truly the perfect anytime treat – a delightful afternoon snack that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s naturally healthy, typically low in added sugar, and offers a delicious way to enjoy fruits and vegetables. You can savor it simply by the spoonful, spread it generously on a piece of toast for a quick breakfast, or even serve it as a wonderfully flavorful condiment to accompany savory dishes like pork chops or roasted chicken, adding a touch of seasonal sweetness to your meal. Embrace the vibrant flavors of fall with this easy and wholesome recipe!
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Print Recipe
Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce
Equipment
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KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher
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Cuisinart Stick Hand Blender
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- 7 apples I used a mixture of Granny Smith and Pink Lady, peeled, cored, and chunked.
- ⅔ cup apple juice or apple cider (or water for reduced sugar)
- 1 cup pumpkin purée do NOT use pumpkin pie filling; ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin
- Pinch of salt
- 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or apple pie spice)
Instructions
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Thoroughly wash, peel, core, and cut apples into uniform chunks.
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Place the prepared apple chunks in the bottom of the Instant Pot. An optional squeeze of lemon juice can be added to prevent browning.
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Add in the apple juice (or cider/water), pumpkin puree, a pinch of salt, and the pumpkin pie spice.
Stir gently to combine all ingredients. -
Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensure it’s sealed, and set the steam release valve to “Sealing.” Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
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Allow pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure manually by turning the valve to “Venting.”
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For a chunkier applesauce, mash the hot apples directly in the pot with a potato masher. If you prefer a smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender to blend until creamy (or transfer to a regular blender in batches).
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Let the applesauce cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
Nutrition
Welcome to the fourth annual #FallFlavors event! We’re thrilled to have 21 talented bloggers sharing over SIXTY incredible recipes, all highlighting beloved fall ingredients like squash, apples, maple, pecans, and so many more. Be sure to follow #FallFlavors across social media platforms to discover all the delicious and inspiring creations!
Wednesday #FallFlavor Recipes
Beverages
- Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail from Family Around The Table
- Orchards be Dram-ed Cocktail from The Spiffy Cookie
Breakfasts and Breads
- Apple Pie Pancakes from Magical Ingredients
- Instant Pot Pumpkin Applesauce from An Affair from the Heart
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Scones from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
- Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal from Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Mains and Sides
- Chicken Parm Stuffed Spaghetti Squash from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
- Chicken Sausage with Apples from Cheese Curd In Paradise
- Roasted Whole Butternut Squash from Jen Around the World
- Sauerkraut with Tomato Sauce from Palatable Pastime
Desserts
- Air Fryer Candied Walnuts from Devour Dinner
- Caramel Apple Pie from Sweet Beginnings
- Easy Apple Pie Cake from A Little Fish in the Kitchen
- Instant Pot Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake from Blogghetti
- Pumpkin Bread Pudding from Hostess At Heart
- Old Fashioned Ritz Pie from Art of Natural Living
- Pecan Butter Cookies from Books n’ Cooks
- Pecan Pie Bars from Best Cookie Recipes
Follow the Favorite Fall Recipes Facebook group and follow the Favorite Fall Flavors Pinterest board for even more fall inspiration and delightful recipes!