This recipe for Instant Pot apple cider is the easiest way to get that homemade apple cider goodness anytime you want! The pressure cooker does an amazing job of releasing all of those rich flavors with just 15 minutes of cooking time.
½cupsweetener of choice (brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, agave, granulated sugar)
1cupfresh cranberries(optional)
Instructions
To the instant pot, add 12 cups of water. Then, add all the ingredients: apples, orange, cinnamon sticks, whole clove, whole spice, and brown sugar. Stir well.
Close the lid, making sure the steam release valve is turned to the sealing position. Set the instant pot to PRESSURE COOK (or Manual for older models) on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before quick releasing the rest of the pressure. Then, mash the fruits with a potato masher and strain the apple cider through a fine-mesh sieve. Do a taste test and add more sweetener, if needed.
Serve hot or cold.
Notes
Allow it to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes to avoid a ton of splatter and let the flavors infuse together. Do not leave it for too long or the orange rinds will cause the apple cider to become bitter.
If serving cider from a punch bowl, or a canister, add in some fresh apple and orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries for added presentation.
Some people enjoy a bit of the pulp in their cider. If that's you, feel free to not completely strain all of it out. You can add some back in if preferred.