Having lived in BC and tasted fresh apple cider, I'd fallen in love with it from an early age. Every year when the leaves start to turn and the air becomes chilly, I've always yearned for a cup of warm apple cider over the regular hot chocolate.
Last year I was gifted an amazing InstantPot for my birthday and have come to love cooking with it whenever I have the chance. This is my recipe for InstantPot Apple Cider - please let me know what you think and feel free to make a batch for your next holiday dinner!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including pressurizing and natural release)
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:
7 medium apples, cored and quartered (mix of sweet and sour varieties)
1 orange (peeled and cut into segments)
1 lemon (peeled and cut into segments)
1/2 cup fresh/frozen cranberries
1 teaspoon of nutmeg
1 teaspoon of ground allspice
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
1 whole star anise leave out if you prefer or can't find it
1/2 cup sweetener of choice (sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, agave)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients into Instant Pot and add just enough water to cover them.
2. Place the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Try to do a full natural release OR you can quick release after an additional 10 minutes.
3. Mash the fruit inside the Instant Pot using a potato masher to release the juices.
4. Filter the solids from the liquids using a fine mesh sieve (you may have to do this once or twice). Discard the solids and store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for future use. Serve warm.
This is a great recipe that is quick and easy to master - it's fantastic for preparing for any holiday dinner because it can be done a couple of days in advance of your celebrations.
For an adult party, add a cinnamon stick and offer bourbon or cognac to spike the cider with - the flavours go really well together! OR you can also add some whipped cream to the top and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for a non-alcoholic alternative.
Aside from parties, pour it into a thermos and share with your family (alcohol-free) at your next outdoor activity, be it hockey, sledding or making snow angels - it'll be a hit with the kids!
Give it a try and comment below your thoughts and whether or not your family liked it! Subscribe to Linda's Study for more curated content straight to your inbox.
Cheers and Bon Appetit!
Linda Kamaev