My Chef's Apron

  • Recipe Index
  • Guides
  • Easy Meals
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Guides
  • Easy Meals
  • About
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Guides
    • Easy Meals
    • About
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Jams and Spreads

    Warm Spiced Instant Pot Apple Butter

    Published: Sep 19, 2023 · Modified: Jun 6, 2025 by Mariska Ramondino · This post may contain affiliate links

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Apple butter stored in glass jars.

    This easy Instant Pot apple butter recipe turns fresh, sweet apples into delicious homemade apple butter in a fraction of the usual time.

    Use this sweet and velvety spread on warm biscuits to elevate your breakfast or desserts, as a side dish, in baked goods, or simply as a condiment. Its deep, warm flavors are finger-licking good!

    Apple butter stored in glass jars.

    My family loves this smooth, creamy apple butter—we use it on almost everything. It’s also one of the best ways to use up a big batch of apples during apple season.

    This delicious spread is full of deep fall flavors, thanks to warm spices and a splash of Cointreau (an orange liqueur) that adds a subtle citrusy aroma—don’t worry, there’s no alcohol taste. And if you’d rather skip the liqueur, I’ve got you covered with easy substitutions.

    It's an incredibly versatile spread, like my Rhubarb Compote or Mandarin Orange Cranberry Sauce. Use it on toast, drizzle it over Oat Pancakes, add it to a Waffle Board, serve it as a condiment on a Charcuterie Board, or pair it with savory dishes like pulled pork or Slow Cooker Ribs.

    Jump to:
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients & Notes
    • How To Make Apple Butter In An Instant Pot
    • Top Tips
    • More Apple Recipes You Might Like
    • 📖 Recipe

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • Quick & Easy: It comes together in a fraction of the time compared to traditional slow cooking, offering a fuss-free way to enjoy rich, homemade apple goodness.
    • Versatile Delight: This isn’t just a spread (though it’s heavenly on toast!). Use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables, a flavor boost for savory dishes like this Cast Iron Brie Stuffed Roasted Chicken, or swirl it on yogurt, oatmeal, or baked goods.
    • Homemade Goodness: There’s something incredibly rewarding about making your own spread. You control the ingredients and sweetness—no unnecessary additives, just smooth apple butter.
    • Perfect Gift: Tuck it into a jar, tie it with twine, and you’ve got the coziest little homemade gift—perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baskets, or just surprising someone you love.

    Ingredients & Notes

    See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

    You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this instant pot applesauce. Here's what you need from the grocery store:

    Apples, coconut sugar, Cointreau, molasses, butter, and spices to make apple butter displayed on a table.
    • Apples: Fresh apples provide the naturally sweet and slightly tart base for this delicious apple butter. Use a variety of apples that are sweet in flavor with a hint of tanginess. Try to go for organic apples if you can. Get some Golden Delicious too to make my Rhubarb Apple Compote.
    • Cointreau (Optional): This delightful orange liqueur adds a sophisticated citrusy note, elevating the apple butter's complexity and depth
    • Coconut Sugar: It adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness to the mix, which works well with apples' natural sugars.
    • Molasses: It adds a deep, earthy sweetness and a hint of bitterness that perfectly balances the flavors. I have plenty of recipes to use leftovers, like my Instant Pot Beef Stew or Apple Skillet Pancake.
    • Cinnamon Powder: Warm and comforting, this spice adds a cozy aroma and taste.
    • Pinch of Salt: Just a touch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
    • Butter: A pat of butter contributes to the apple butter's aromatic flavor.
    • Ground Cloves: It lends a sweet and gentle spiciness to the mix.
    • Allspice: Adds complexity and depth, creating layers of flavor that make this apple butter truly special.
    • Ground Ginger: It provides a subtle kick of warmth and a hint of zing.

    How To Make Apple Butter In An Instant Pot

    See the full recipe with measurements in the recipe card.

    A series of initial steps showing how to make apple butter in an instant pot.

    Step One (Picture 1 above) - Wash apple peels, core, and slice your apples. 

    Step Two (Picture 2 above) - Melt the butter in your Instant Pot using the sauté setting. 

    Step Three (Picture 3 above) - With a wooden spoon, stir in the apples, coconut sugar, molasses, spices, and a pinch of salt until well combined with the butter. Turn off the sauté button and pour over the Cointreau or apple juice. Give it a good stir. 

    A series of steps showing how to make apple butter in an instant pot.

    Step Four (Picture 4 above) - Put the lid on the Instant Pot, choose "Pressure Cook," and cook apples until soft and fragrant. The high pressure in the Instant Pot accelerates the cooking process, infusing the apples with rich spices and liqueur.

    Step Five (Picture 5 above) - Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it's silky smooth. Be cautious, as it will be hot! Use the sauté function again to simmer and thicken the apple butter, stirring occasionally until you get the desired consistency. Let it cool at room temperature.

    Step Six (Picture 6 above) - Store the apple sauce in mason jars or airtight containers. Seal them and refrigerate them for ultimate freshness. 

    Top Tips

    • Avoid Splatter: It is best to use a splatter guard when sautéing the pureed apple butter to achieve a thicker consistency. Alternatively, use a large lid from another pot to cover, as it tends to splatter a bit.
    • Avoid Burning: Stir occasionally until you obtain the desired thickness to avoid burning. 
    • For Best Flavor: It's worth noting that the flavors tend to intensify after a day or two, so exercise patience for a more robust taste.
    Thick apple butter stored in a glass jar.

    More Apple Recipes You Might Like

    • Apple rhubarb compote served in a honey jar.
      Easy Apple Rhubarb Compote With Cinnamon
    • A small white plate filled with oatmeal stuffed baked apple and topped with raisins, nuts and syrup.
      Baked Stuffed Apples with Belgian Raspberry Beer
    • Healthy Paleo apple crumble with cherries served on a plate.
      Best Healthy Apple Crumble (Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-free)
    • Baked granola stored in a wide-mouth glass jar.
      The Best Homemade Nut-Free Granola Recipe

    Here you have it, a smooth, rich instant pot apple butter recipe that goes with almost anything, and my favorite way to use up pounds of apples.


    Don't forget to subscribe to my Monthly Newsletter!

    Your shares and ratings are valuable to me and so much appreciated. They'll help me create more content you and others can enjoy!


    📖 Recipe

    Apple butter stored in glass jars.

    Warm Spiced Instant Pot Apple Butter

    Mariska Ramondino
    This deliciously spiced Instant Pot Apple Butter is a fall favorite. This recipe requires no peeling and minimal chopping. Enjoy as a dessert, or serve on toast, stirred in yogurts, oatmeal, or chia seed pudding, or enjoy as a topping with more savory dishes. It's just finger-licking good!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 40 minutes mins
    Course Jams and Spreads
    Cuisine American

    Equipment

    • 1 Instant Pot
    • 1 apple corer
    • 1 knife and cutting board
    • 1 splatter guard 
    • mason jars or airtight container for storage
    • 1 large wooden spoon
    Servings 28 Servings or 3.5 cups total

    Ingredients
     

    • 3 ½ pounds medium-sized mixed apples (about 1.5 kg) About 9 to 10 apples
    • ¼ cup butter 55 grams
    • ⅓ cup coconut sugar 50 grams
    • ⅓ cup molasses 105 grams
    • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
    • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
    • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
    • ½ teaspoon allspice
    • 1 pinch of salt
    • ½ cup Cointreau (orange liqueur) 100 ml (optional)

    Instructions
     

    • Core apples and slice into eights—set aside.
      3 ½ pounds medium-sized mixed apples
    • Press the "Sauté" button on the instant pot. Add the butter and sauté until butter is melted.
      ¼ cup butter
    • Stir in the apples, coconut sugar, molasses, and all the spices as well as the pinch of salt until well combined with the butter.
      ⅓ cup coconut sugar, ⅓ cup molasses, 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon allspice, 1 pinch of salt
    • Turn off the "Sauté" button and pour over the Cointreau. Give it a good stir.
      ½ cup Cointreau (orange liqueur)
    • Put the lid on the Instant Pot, set the vent to sealing, then press "Pressure Cook" (make sure it's on high pressure). Adjust the time to 20 minutes and make sure the "keep warm" button is off.
    • It will take about 10 minutes to build up pressure before the 20 minutes time starts. When the timer is finished, turn the dial to the VENT position and let the steam release. Remove lid.
    • Blend the apple mixture with an immersion or regular blender until smooth. Be very careful since it will be quite hot!
    • Press the "Sauté" button and sauté for an additional 5 minutes on "Normal" to thicken the apple butter. Make sure you stir occasionally so it does not burn.
    • I usually use a large lid from another pot to cover as it tends to splatter a bit. If you like your apple butter to be thicker than mine, then continue to sauté until you have the desired thickness.
    • Turn off the instant pot.
    • Spoon into jars, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

    Notes

    Helpful Tips & Notes

    • It is best to use a splatter guard when sauteing the pureed apple butter to obtain a thicker consistency. Or use a large lid from another pot to cover, as it tends to splatter a bit.
    • Stir occasionally until you obtain the desired thickness to avoid burning.
    • It's worth noting that the flavors tend to intensify after a day or two, so exercise patience for a more robust taste.
    • Store it in Mason jars or airtight containers in the fridge for up to two weeks. Or freeze for longer, stored in freezer-safe containers (up to 6 months). Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using it.
    • 28 servings convert to 2 tablespoons per person.
     

    Variations

    • Apple Variety: Experiment with various apple types, from Granny Smith's tartness to Honeycrisp's sweetness, to create a unique apple butter profile each time you make it.
    • Sweetness Level: If you prefer less sweet apple butter, reduce the amount of coconut sugar or molasses, or opt for other sweeteners like maple syrup.
    • Citrus Twist: Instead of Cointreau, experiment with other citrus liqueurs or fresh citrus zest for a bright, zesty note. Or omit and add apple juice or cider for a lighter taste. 
    • Vegan Delight: Make your apple butter entirely plant-based using coconut butter or omitting butter altogether. Although I highly recommend adding it as a base because it creates a richer flavor.
    • Thicker: Adjust the thickness of your apple butter by simmering it longer to thicken.
    • Sugar Alternatives: Swap coconut sugar for other sweeteners like brown sugar or Monk fruit to cater to dietary needs or taste preferences.
     

     

    Add your own private notes

    Click here to add your own private notes.

    Whenever you come back to this recipe, you’ll be able to see your notes.

    Nutrition (% Daily value)

    Serving: 1Calories: 79kcal (4%)Carbohydrates: 15g (5%)Protein: 0.2gFat: 2g (3%)Saturated Fat: 1g (6%)Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 4mg (1%)Sodium: 17mg (1%)Potassium: 123mg (4%)Fiber: 1g (4%)Sugar: 13g (14%)Vitamin A: 82IU (2%)Vitamin C: 3mg (4%)Calcium: 14mg (1%)Iron: 0.3mg (2%)

    Disclaimer: This nutritional data is calculated using third party tools and is only intended as a reference.

    Tried this recipe? PIN it for laterMention @mychefsapron or tag #mychefsapron!
    « Homemade And Crunchy Steel Cut Oats Granola
    Amazingly Flavored Low Carb Almond Flour Breakfast Chaffles »

    Comments

    1. Mariska Ramondino says

      July 03, 2025 at 12:44 pm

      5 stars
      The orange liqueur adds deliciously complex flavors to the apple butter, and the alcohol will completely evaporate during the cooking process. However, if preferred, you can omit it.

      Reply
    2. Mariska Ramondino says

      June 10, 2025 at 11:10 am

      5 stars
      Although the addition of Cointreau (orange liqueur) is not necessary, it does add a more in-depth flavor, and the alcohol will completely cook away. Enjoy!

      Reply
    5 from 2 votes

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    “Cooking may be as much a means of self-expression as any of the arts.”

    –Fannie Farmer

    A beautiful lady turning her head smilingly.

    Hi, I'm Mariska—I love to explore food & all things nourishing in and outside the kitchen. As a PN 1 Certified Nutrition Coach, I encourage cooking more at home and eating intuitively. Let's embark on this journey together!

    Read More →

    Comforting Easy Meals


    • A beautiful dish with a whole chicken and potatoes topped with a healthy gravy.
      Slow Cooker Chicken And Potatoes With A Healthy Gravy
    • Two black plates filled with a hearty potato and beef stew.
      How To Make An Amazing Instant Pot Beef Stew
    • Cast iron skillet pork chops with apples, squash and pan juices served on a table.
      Juicy Cast Iron Pork Chops With Apples And Squash
    • Two terracotta bowls filled with a meat sweet potato and stew.
      Sweet Potatoes and Spicy Chorizo Stew
    • A large Dutch oven pan filled with sausage and broccoli rabe pasta.
      Easiest-Ever Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta with Potatoes
    • Two bowls filled with Straciatella soup with tortellini next to a large pot of soup, extra Parmesan cheese and wooden spoons on the side.
      Nourishing Stracciatella Soup (Italian Egg Drop Soup)

    Trending Recipes

    • A large pot containing a whole raw chicken covered with water, next to fresh chopped vegetables like celery, leek, carrots, onions, and a pot of salt.
      Fall-off-the-bone poached whole chicken (meal prep)
    • A large pot containing an Italian red sauce with beef meatballs.
      Tender Italian Meatballs In Tomato Sauce (No Breadcrumbs)
    • A plate neatly filled with baked chicken wings and garnished with celery and parsley.
      Marinated Chicken Wings
    • Oven baked lollipop drumsticks on a serving plate.
      How To Make Amazing Chicken Drumstick Lollipops
    • A plate containing cauliflower rice and topped with fall of the bone beef ribs.
      Super Flavorful Easy Beef Short Ribs Slow Cooker Recipe
    • Two bowls filled with yellow squash soup, topped with Parmesan cheese and served with extra cheese and bread on the side.
      Healthy Butternut Squash-Zucchini and Rosemary Soup

    “Cooking can cure almost anything.”

    –Michelle Dockery

    Get My Best 20 Hacks To Easily Add More Nutrition To Your Meals.
    Yes, Please

    Footer

    ^ back to top

    Newsletter: Sign-up for emails and updates

    About Me & Contact * Privacy Policy * Disclaimer * Terms & Conditions * Disclosure * Accessibility Policy

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 MYCHEFSAPRON BY LIFEFUELER CONSULTING LLC—All rights reserved.

    • Pinterest
    • Facebook
    • X
    • Flipboard

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.