If you have a bounty of apples and want to transform them into something truly magical, this Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe is the way to go. It takes the natural sweetness and brightness of apples and turns it into a glossy, spreadable jelly that’s perfect for breakfast toast, spooning over desserts, or even gifting to loved ones. The Instant Pot makes the process surprisingly quick and hands-off, capturing all the fresh flavor while delivering a beautifully clear jelly that dazzles both the eye and the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create the perfect jelly texture and flavor balance. Each one plays a crucial role, from the apples providing the fresh fruit essence to the lemon juice giving just the right tang to brighten the final jelly.
- 12 Gala, Jazz, or Granny Smith apples: Skinned, washed, diced, and seeds removed for the ideal base packed with natural pectin and sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Balances the tartness and ensures the jelly sets properly while adding sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a lovely depth and warm undertone to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides acidity that helps with jelly consistency and enhances flavor brightness.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Mixed with water to create a slurry that thickens the jelly smoothly without clouding it.
- 1 tablespoon water (up to 2 if needed): Used to blend the cornstarch slurry for perfect thickening.
How to Make Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by skinning, washing, and dicing your apples, then remove the seeds. This prep ensures that only the best parts of the apple go into your jelly, keeping the texture smooth and the flavor pure.
Step 2: Combine Apples with Sweeteners
Place the diced apples in the Instant Pot and add sugar, honey, and lemon juice. Let this mixture sit for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the sugar to draw out the apple juices and helps things mingle beautifully before cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Apples in the Instant Pot
After stirring, secure the Instant Pot lid until it beeps and locks. Set the pressure valve to ‘VENTING’, then press the Manual button and set the cooking time for 1 minute. This brief cooking step extracts all the juice and softens the apples.
Step 4: Release Pressure and Strain
Use the manual release to let out the pressure once cooking is complete. Open the lid and give the mixture a good stir. Remove the apples and strain the liquid through a cheesecloth for crystal-clear juice. Be gentle here; pressing too much can cloud your jelly, so patience pays off.
Step 5: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
Mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the collected apple juice in the Instant Pot. This will help thicken your jelly to that perfect spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Boil and Thicken the Jelly
Turn the Instant Pot to ‘SAUTE’ mode and bring the jelly to a boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, turn off the heat but keep stirring until the jelly thickens to your liking. This step transforms the juice into a luscious jelly with a lovely sheen.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Allow the jelly to cool before pouring it into your chosen containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 12 months, making it easy to enjoy your homemade apple jelly anytime.
How to Serve Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your jelly to new heights. Consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or a fresh apple slice on the side when serving, which complements the apple flavor beautifully and adds a touch of warmth.
Side Dishes
Instant Pot Apple Jelly pairs wonderfully with freshly baked bread, warm biscuits, or scones. You can also serve it alongside sharp cheeses or cured meats on a charcuterie board for a delightful sweet contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Fill small jars with your jelly and tie them with rustic twine or a colorful ribbon to give as charming homemade gifts. For an elegant touch at brunch, spoon the jelly over vanilla yogurt or spread on mini pancakes for a burst of apple sunshine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Make sure to use a clean spoon every time to avoid contamination and keep it fresh longer.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, freeze your jelly in airtight containers for up to 12 months. Remember to leave some headspace in the container to allow for expansion. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If your jelly firms up too much in the fridge or freezer, a quick warm-up in a microwave-safe dish or gently on the stove can restore that perfect spreadable texture. Stir well and enjoy immediately.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe?
Absolutely! While Gala, Jazz, or Granny Smith apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with whatever apples you have. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will result in a sweeter jelly, and more tart apples will add brightness.
Is it necessary to remove the apple skins for this recipe?
Removing the skins helps ensure that your jelly stays clear and smooth. Skins can add color and some texture, but for the classic, transparent jelly look, it’s best to peel them beforehand.
Why do I need to strain the apple juice through cheesecloth carefully?
Pressing too hard on the apple pulp can release tiny bits of apple solids, making the jelly cloudy. A gentle strain results in a beautifully clear jelly that looks just as delicious as it tastes.
Can I use a different thickener instead of cornstarch?
Cornstarch is perfect for quick thickening in this recipe, but you could try alternatives like arrowroot or tapioca starch. Just keep in mind they may alter the texture or clarity slightly, and you might need to adjust quantities.
How long does it take to make jelly using the Instant Pot compared to traditional methods?
The Instant Pot drastically cuts down cooking time. Where traditional stovetop methods may take hours to prepare apple jelly, this recipe wraps up most of the work in under 30 minutes of active cooking, making it a fantastic quick homemade treat.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about making your own jelly from scratch, especially with the ease and speed of this Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe. It captures the essence of fresh apples in a beautiful, spreadable form that’s bound to brighten breakfasts and snacks alike. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the cozy, homemade goodness that only fresh apple jelly can bring!
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Instant Pot Apple Jelly Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1.1 batch (approximately 4 cups of jelly)
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Apple Jelly recipe offers a quick and easy way to make a delicious, clear apple jelly using fresh apples and an Instant Pot. Perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts, this jelly has a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness with a smooth, thickened texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 Gala, Jazz, or Granny Smith apples (skinned, washed, diced, seeds removed)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water (up to 2 tablespoons if cornstarch slurry is too thick)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Put the diced apples into the Instant Pot.
- Mix Ingredients: Add sugar, honey, and lemon juice to the apples and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Pressure Cook Apples: Stir the mixture, secure the Instant Pot lid until it beeps and locks.
- Set Pressure Valve and Time: Ensure the pressure valve is on ‘VENTING’, then press the Manual button and set the time for 1 minute.
- Release Pressure: Manually release the pressure once cooking is complete.
- Open and Stir: Open the lid and stir the jelly mixture.
- Strain Apple Juice: Remove the mixture from the Instant Pot and strain using cheesecloth to collect clear apple juice without pressing too much to avoid cloudiness.
- Return Juice to Instant Pot: Place the strained apple juice back into the Instant Pot.
- Mix Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water until fully blended, then pour the slurry into the apple juice and stir.
- Boil Jelly: Turn the Instant Pot to ‘SAUTE’ mode and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Thicken Jelly: When boiling starts, turn off the Instant Pot and continue stirring until the jelly begins to thicken.
- Cool Jelly: Allow the jelly to cool to room temperature.
- Package Jelly: Pour the cooled jelly into desired containers.
- Store Jelly: Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 12 months.
- Prepare for Serving: Remove from freezer 15 minutes before use and return any unused portion immediately to the freezer.
- Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your homemade apple jelly.
Notes
- Do not press apples excessively while straining to keep the jelly clear.
- You can use Gala, Jazz, or Granny Smith apples depending on your flavor preference.
- Add up to 2 tablespoons of water to the cornstarch slurry if it is too thick to pour easily.
- Store jelly in sealed containers to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate jelly for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage up to 12 months.
- Use honey as a natural sweetener to complement the apples.
