Easy Instant Pot Spiced Apple Cider

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy this recipe because it’s simple, quick, and filled with natural flavors. The combination of apples, orange, maple syrup, and warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger makes it taste comforting and refreshing. I also love that I can adjust the sweetness and spice to my liking, which makes it easy to customize. Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing while it cooks.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

6 organic medium size apples, core removed, quartered
2 ½ cups (or more) filtered water
Zest of organic orange
Juice of organic orange, strained
¼ cup real maple syrup
1 inch chunk fresh ginger, sliced
2 cinnamon sticks
7 whole cloves

Directions

1. I place the apples, water, orange zest, orange juice, maple syrup, ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves into the Instant Pot.
2. I secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Once the cooking cycle is done, I let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release the remaining steam.
4. I use a potato masher to gently mash the apples and release more flavor.
5. I strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher.
6. I serve the cider warm, or let it cool and refrigerate it to enjoy chilled later.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes me around 10 minutes to prepare, 15 minutes of pressure cooking, and another 10–15 minutes for natural release and straining.

Variations

Sometimes I add a few star anise pods for a stronger spiced flavor. I also like to use pears along with the apples for a sweeter twist. If I want a more indulgent version, I serve it with a cinnamon stick stirrer or a dollop of whipped cream. For a grown-up version, I sometimes add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cider in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If I want to keep it longer, I freeze it in freezer-safe jars for up to 3 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I leave the peel on the apples?

Yes, I always leave the peel on because it adds flavor and color to the cider.

What apples work best for cider?

I like using a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith.

Can I make this cider without an Instant Pot?

Yes, I simmer the ingredients on the stovetop for about 1–2 hours instead.

How do I make the cider sweeter?

I add more maple syrup or a bit of honey to adjust the sweetness.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Yes, I simply leave out the maple syrup and let the natural sweetness of the apples shine.

How do I strain the cider without cheesecloth?

I use a fine mesh sieve, but for a clearer cider, I line it with a paper towel.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, I often chill it and serve it over ice for a refreshing drink.

How do I make it spicier?

I add extra cinnamon sticks, cloves, or ginger slices for a bolder flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I can, but I make sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the max fill line.

Conclusion

I love making this Easy Instant Pot Spiced Apple Cider because it’s cozy, flavorful, and incredibly simple. It’s a perfect drink for fall gatherings, family nights, or just curling up with a warm mug. Every time I make it, it feels like autumn in a cup, and it always disappears fast.

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