Savory Instant Pot Caramel Apple Crisp
Indulge in this delectable Instant Pot Caramel Apple Crisp, where tender, spiced apples are blended with a rich caramel flavor and topped with a hearty, buttery oat mixture. This delightful dessert captures the essence of autumn with every comforting bite, and although it lacks a traditional crispy top, its warmth and incredible taste are simply irresistible. Ready in just minutes, this recipe provides the perfect satisfying end to your meal, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in.
6-8
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apples
8 (large, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Gala))
Fresh lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
Ground cinnamon
3 (teaspoons)
Pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice
1 (teaspoon)
Granulated sugar
1/4 (cup)
Vanilla extract
1 (teaspoon)
Apple juice
3/4 (cup)
Cornstarch
1 (tablespoon)
All-purpose flour
1 (cup)
Brown sugar
1/2 (cup)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Ground cinnamon
1 (teaspoon)
Old fashioned oats
1 1/4 (cups)
Unsalted butter
1/2 (cup, softened)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the apples, coring them, and cutting them into large dice. Place the diced apples in a large mixing bowl.
2
Add the fresh lemon juice, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice (or apple pie spice), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, apple juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.
3
Transfer the apple mixture into your Instant Pot, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
4
In the same mixing bowl, prepare the topping by combining the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, an additional teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and old-fashioned oats.
5
Add the softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
6
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture in the Instant Pot.
7
Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
8
Perform a quick release of the pressure once the cooking time is complete, allowing the steam to escape until the lid can be safely opened.
9
Gently stir the apple crisp to combine the layers before serving warm with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Instant Pot Caramel Apple Crisp?
It is a warm, spiced dessert made with tender apples, a rich caramel-like sauce, and a buttery oat topping, all prepared quickly in an Instant Pot.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 servings.
Which apple varieties are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith or Gala apples are recommended for their ability to hold their shape and provide a good balance of tartness and sweetness.
How long do I need to cook the apple crisp in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time is 1 minute on high pressure.
Is the topping crispy when cooked in the Instant Pot?
Because it is pressure-cooked with moisture, the topping will be hearty and buttery rather than traditionally crunchy like an oven-baked version.
Should I use a natural or quick pressure release?
You should perform a quick release of the pressure immediately after the 1-minute cooking time is finished.
What ingredients are used for the apple coating?
The apples are tossed with lemon juice, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, apple juice, and cornstarch.
What type of oats should I use for the topping?
Old-fashioned oats are used in this recipe to provide the best texture for the topping.
Can I substitute apple pie spice for pumpkin pie spice?
Yes, you can use either pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice depending on what you have available.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch helps thicken the juices from the apples and the apple juice to create a rich, syrupy sauce.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, the recipe calls for the apples to be peeled, cored, and diced before cooking.
How do I prepare the buttery oat mixture?
Mix flour, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and oats, then work in softened unsalted butter with your fingers until it forms coarse crumbs.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The butter should be softened so it can be easily worked into the dry ingredients to create the crumbly texture.
What should I serve with the apple crisp?
It is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Is there any salt in this dessert?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is included in the topping mixture to balance the sweetness.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is specified, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
How should I cut the apples?
The apples should be cut into a large dice to ensure they don't turn into applesauce during the pressure cooking process.
Does this recipe contain brown sugar?
Yes, 1/2 cup of brown sugar is used in the topping to provide a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
What setting should the pressure valve be on?
The pressure valve should be set to the 'sealing' position before you begin cooking.
Why do I stir the apple crisp after cooking?
Stirring gently helps combine the spiced apple layer with the buttery oat topping and the thickened sauce.
Is this a good recipe for autumn?
Absolutely, the combination of apples, cinnamon, and pumpkin spices makes it a perfect fall dessert.
Can I make this recipe in a 6-quart Instant Pot?
Yes, a standard 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot will work perfectly for this amount of ingredients.
How much cinnamon is in the recipe?
The recipe uses a total of 4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon: 3 teaspoons for the apples and 1 teaspoon for the topping.
Can I use water instead of apple juice?
You can, but using apple juice enhances the apple flavor and contributes to the 'caramel' taste of the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it contains all-purpose flour and oats. To make it gluten-free, you would need to substitute with a GF flour blend and certified GF oats.
How many apples do I need?
You will need 8 large apples for this recipe.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 14 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated when ready to eat.
How do I ensure the apples are evenly coated?
Toss the diced apples in a large mixing bowl with the spices, sugar, liquids, and cornstarch before adding them to the Instant Pot.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, once the apples are prepped, the actual pressure cooking time is only 1 minute.