There’s something magical about the smell of simmering apples, oranges, and cinnamon filling the air.
Apple cider is one of those classic fall and winter drinks that feels like a hug in a mug.
But instead of waiting hours for it to brew on the stovetop, this Instant Pot Apple Cider comes together in just 20 minutes, without sacrificing any of that rich, spiced flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, cozying up with a book, or looking for a festive drink to enjoy by the fire, this cider will warm your hands and your heart. Plus, it’s made with real fruit and natural spices, so every sip is bursting with freshness.
And remember - an apple cider glass a day keeps the doctor away!
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
The Instant Pot does all the work for you, locking in the flavors quickly so nothing is lost in a long simmer. The mix of tart and sweet apples creates the perfect balance, while oranges brighten everything up. A handful of cranberries adds a little tang and a splash of festive color.
Cinnamon and cardamom bring warmth without overpowering the fruit, and a touch of brown sugar ties it all together with a hint of caramel sweetness.
Ingredients
Green Apples - These bring a tart, crisp bite to the cider, helping balance out the sweetness from the other fruits. Granny Smith is a classic choice, but any firm, tangy apple will work. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can swap them for more red apples instead.
Red Apples - Naturally sweet and juicy, red apples form the base flavor of the cider. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala break down beautifully in the Instant Pot and add body to the drink. Using only red apples will give you a softer, sweeter cider.
Oranges - The fresh citrus flavor of oranges lifts the whole drink, keeping it bright and refreshing. Keeping the peel on adds extra zest and aroma, while removing it gives a gentler taste. Mandarins or tangerines can be used if oranges aren’t available.
Cinnamon Sticks - The essential spice for any cider, cinnamon brings warmth and depth. Whole sticks release their flavor slowly, making the drink cozy without becoming overpowering. Ground cinnamon can be used in a pinch, though the taste will be stronger.
Cardamom Pods - A subtle but special touch, cardamom gives the cider a delicate floral note with a whisper of spice. It adds a layer of complexity that makes the drink feel more refined. Ground cardamom is a fine substitute, but use sparingly.
Brown Sugar - Sweetens and rounds out the flavors, adding a caramel-like richness that works perfectly with the fruit. You can use light brown sugar for a softer flavor or dark brown for more molasses depth. Honey or maple syrup are also great alternatives.
Fresh Cranberries - These add a tart, tangy kick and a beautiful pop of color to the cider. They also make for a lovely garnish in each glass. Frozen cranberries work just as well, or you can skip them for a smoother, less tart drink.
Cooking Tips
Don’t Skip the Mash: Mashing the fruits after the first cook helps release all the juices and flavor.
Adjust Sweetness at the End: Taste your cider after straining and add more sugar if you prefer.
Serve Hot or Cold: This cider is equally delicious warm from the pot or chilled over ice.
Make It Boozy: Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adult-friendly holiday treat.
How To Serve
- Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick, fresh cranberry, and a slice of orange.
- Pair with holiday cookies, pumpkin bread, or a cheese board.
- Keep it warm in the Instant Pot on the “Keep Warm” setting during gatherings so guests can serve themselves.
Apple recipes
Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
Beverage Recipes
Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte
Instant Pot Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 4 green apples
- 4 red apples
- 2 medium oranges
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoon cardamom pods
- 1 ½ cup brown sugar
- water to cover the fruits
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Cut the apple and the oranges in quarters and put them in the inner pot. Add all the remaining ingredients and pour water so they cover all the fruits
- Close the lid and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
- When cooking time is complete, do a quick pressure release.
- Open the lid and mash the fruits a little.
- Close the lid and cook at high pressure for 5 more minutes.
- When cooking time is complete, wait for the pressure to release naturally (or for at least 20 minutes).
- Open the lid and train the mixture.
- Serve with the slices of oranges and cranberries and cinnamon sticks 🙂
Nutrition
Notes
- Mashing the fruits after the first cook helps release all the juices and flavor. Don't skip this step.
- Taste your cider after straining and add more sugar if you prefer.
- You can add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adult-friendly holiday treat.
What can I substitute cranberries with? Don't have any fresh ones here. Thank you.
I think the best option is to use frozen cranberries if you can find them. You could also try using tart cherries, or add just a splash of cranberry juice at the end, or leave it out entirely.
OK, maybe this is dumb but do you have to peel the oranges first? Not sure if leaving the peel on will make it bitter. Thanks.
That's a good question! No need to peel the oranges, the skin has a lot of flavor too. And even though it's a bit bitter on its own it will be balanced out by the sugar.
Do you fill water to the line? Water as needed is a bit vague.
Add enough water to cover the apple mixture in Instant Pot.