Strawberry Applesauce Instant Pot Recipe

So you’re craving something sweet, warm, cozy, AND low-effort? Welcome to the club. This Strawberry Applesauce Instant Pot recipe is the culinary equivalent of wearing pajamas to a Zoom meeting—comforting, effortless, and surprisingly impressive. If you’re ready to toss ingredients into a magical metal pot and walk away like the kitchen wizard you are, buckle up. This is your recipe.

Why This Recipe Is Awesome

First of all, it’s idiot-proof—even I didn’t mess it up, which is saying something.
Second, it’s the ultimate “dump-and-go” situation. No babysitting. No stirring. No praying to the kitchen gods for good results.
Third, it tastes like strawberry sunshine in a bowl. You can spoon it over oatmeal, swirl it into yogurt, or just eat it by the spoonful like a rebel.
And finally… it makes your kitchen smell like you’ve been simmering something fancy all day (but you know it took 5 minutes of effort—tops).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Apples – 6–8 medium ones, peeled and chopped (go for sweet varieties unless you enjoy suffering).
• Strawberries – 2 cups fresh or frozen (because who’s judging?).
• Water – ½ cup (not optional unless you like scorched pots).
• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp to keep things bright.
• Honey or sugar – 2–3 tbsp, totally optional depending on how sweet life already is.
• Cinnamon – ½ tsp for a cozy vibe.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the fruit.

   Peel and chop your apples. Trim your strawberries. Try not to eat them all before cooking (no promises).

2. Add everything to the Instant Pot.

   Toss in apples, strawberries, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Add sweetener if you’re feeling fancy.

3. Seal and cook.

   Close the lid, set to Manual / Pressure Cook, and cook for 5 minutes. Yes, literally just five.

4. Natural release for 10 minutes.

   Let the pressure drop on its own like a drama queen calming down. Then do a quick release.

5. Mash or blend.

   For rustic vibes, mash with a fork or potato masher. For silky-smooth applesauce, blend that beauty.

6. Taste and adjust.

   Add more sweetness or cinnamon if needed. Because you’re in charge here.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding too little water. Instant Pots aren’t magic—give them at least half a cup or prepare to scrub burnt fruit goo for eternity.
• Overthinking it. Apples + strawberries + pot = done. Don’t complicate life.
• Waiting until it cools completely to taste. What are you—made of patience?
• Not peeling the apples (unless you want chunks that chew back).
• Using unripe strawberries. You’ll end up with sad pink applesauce. No one wants that.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• No strawberries? Use raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. (Peach applesauce = underrated joy.)
• Prefer tartness? Add an extra splash of lemon juice or throw in a green apple.
• Sugar-free? Great—skip the sweetener entirely. Fresh fruit usually does the job.
• Want extra spice? Add nutmeg or ginger. Just don’t go wild and turn it into a Christmas potpourri bowl.
• No Instant Pot? Cook stovetop for 20–25 minutes. Yes, it’s more work, but your ancestors did it, so you’ll survive.

FAQs

 Can I leave the apple peels on?

Technically yes, but why create chunky chaos when peeling takes 2 minutes?

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely. Frozen berries don’t judge, and neither do I.

How long does it last in the fridge?

About 5–7 days, unless you eat it all earlier (which is the more likely scenario).

Can I freeze it?

Yep! Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Future you will thank present you.

Do I need to add sugar?

Nope. Only if your apples are bland or your sweet tooth is dramatic.

Can I double the recipe?

Oh yes. Just don’t fill the Instant Pot past the “Max” line unless you want a fruit explosion.

Can I make it thicker?

Sure—just simmer on sauté mode after blending until it reaches your vibe.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your new go-to Strawberry Applesauce Instant Pot masterpiece. It’s quick, cozy, customizable, and makes you look like you totally have your life together (even if you definitely do not—same).