Instant Pot Apple Crisp: Quick, Easy, & Irresistibly Delicious!
Think your Instant Pot is just for soups, stews, and quick dinners? Think again!
I didn’t realize it myself until I’d had the Instant Pot for a while, but it totally has a sweet side — it can be used to make dessert!
And one of the best desserts you can make is a warm, spiced, caramelized Instant Pot Apple Crisp.
It’s got everything you love about the classic: soft, syrupy apples, a buttery oat topping with just the right crunch, and the right balance of sweetness and spice.
Also, it cooks beautifully in the Instant Pot and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This is perfect whenever you’re craving a comforting, nostalgia-inducing fall-themed dessert that you can whip up on a whim.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes!
- Perfect for any occasion: Cozy enough to instantly satisfy cravings, impressive enough for gatherings.
- Warm and comforting: Bursting with cinnamon-spiced apple goodness
- Versatile: Works for any diet
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the apple filling:
- 6 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and sliced into chunks
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 3/4 cup water
For the crisp topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup flour (or any gluten-free flour that calls for a 1:1 substitution ratio)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 minute of cook time + 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to build pressure |
| Release TIme | 5 to 10 minutes of quick release |
| Total Time | 21 to 26 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pour the water into your Instant Pot.
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1-inch chunks.
- In a large bowl, toss apple chunks with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup for the apple filling.
- In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt for the crisp topping.
- Add the apple mixture to the Instant Pot.
- Drop the crisp topping mixture over the apples evenly.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on high for 1 minute.
- Do a quick release carefully, then open the lid. Let the apple crisp cool for around 10 minutes.
- Optional: For a crunchier texture, transfer the cooked apple crisp to an oven-safe dish and broil for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Expert Tips for the Best Apple Crisp
- Combine tart Granny Smith with sweet apples like Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple filling. This will enhance the warmth of the spices and deepen the flavor of the apples.
- Stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for extra crunch.
- If you want your apple filling to be sweeter, add some brown sugar.
- Make your apple crisp even more indulgent by drizzling caramel syrup over it.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 2g |
FAQs About Instant Pot Apple Crisp
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free oats and substitute the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the apple filling in advance. Just add the topping before cooking.
Delight in Every Cozy Bite of this Instant Pot Apple Crisp!
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of apple crisp to make any night feel special.
Go ahead and try this Instant Pot version for an effortless way to enjoy a classic fall dessert — any time of the year!
