If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on classic applesauce, this Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe is a total game-changer. It combines the natural sweetness of apples and strawberries with the earthy depth of beets, creating a beautifully colored, nutrient-packed applesauce that is as delicious as it is healthy. Using the Instant Pot makes this recipe effortless and quick, turning humble ingredients into a luxurious treat that’s perfect any time of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a rich flavor and smooth texture. Each item is key to delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, color, and a subtle hint of spice.
- 6 apples, cored and roughly chopped: Choose your favorite sweet variety like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness and fiber; leaving the skins on adds extra nutrients.
- 1 medium red beet, peeled and roughly chopped: Adds an earthy undertone and a stunning deep pink color that makes the applesauce visually irresistible.
- 16 ounces fresh strawberries: Fresh or frozen, strawberries bring a juicy brightness that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1½ Tablespoons lemon juice: This brightens the overall flavor and helps preserve the color.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup water: Provides just enough liquid for cooking without diluting the natural flavors.
How to Make Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by coring and roughly chopping your apples—no need to peel unless you prefer it smooth—then peel and chop your beet. Rinse the strawberries well if using fresh, or measure out frozen berries. The prep is straightforward but critical for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Combine Everything in the Instant Pot
Place all your prepped apples, beet, strawberries, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and water into the Instant Pot. This simple dump-and-go step ensures all the flavors will meld together beautifully during cooking.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Lock the lid securely and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes. Keep in mind that the Instant Pot will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure before the actual cooking begins; this slow build helps to soften the fruits and beet evenly.
Step 4: Quick Release and Blend
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Open the lid carefully, then use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the mixture until smooth or to your preferred consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can let the mixture cool slightly and use a standard blender.
Step 5: Cool and Store
When warm, the applesauce might look a bit thin, but as it cools it thickens beautifully. At this point, you can serve it right away or transfer it to airtight containers to refrigerate or freeze for later use.
How to Serve Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra ground cinnamon or a few fresh strawberry slices on top makes the applesauce look as delicious as it tastes. You might also add a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a handful of chopped nuts to add texture and an appealing contrast.
Side Dishes
This applesauce pairs wonderfully with pancakes or waffles for a bright, fruity breakfast. It’s also an excellent companion to roasted pork dishes or as a wholesome snack on its own, satisfying that sweet tooth in a guilt-free way.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe with granola and vanilla yogurt in parfait glasses for an eye-catching dessert or snack. You can also swirl it into oatmeal or use it as a topping on vanilla ice cream for an easy-to-make fruit sauce upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover applesauce in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to one week, making it perfect to prepare in advance for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe longer, freezing is your friend. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning. It can be frozen for several months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen applesauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve the fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as well and can even help the applesauce develop a richer texture as they thaw and cook down in the Instant Pot.
Do I have to peel the apples for this recipe?
Not at all. Leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the apples, but it’s optional based on your preference.
Is this recipe sweet enough without added sugar?
Yes! The natural sugars in the apples and strawberries create a delightful sweetness, enhanced by the sweetness of the beet. No extra sugar is necessary, making it a wholesome treat.
Can I substitute the beet with another vegetable?
Beets give this recipe its signature color and earthiness, but if you don’t have one on hand, a small carrot can add a similar sweetness and vibrant hue, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How thick should the applesauce be when done?
The applesauce will seem a bit thin right after blending but will thicken as it cools. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can simmer it on low heat after blending to reduce excess liquid.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe enough if you want a fresh and beautiful way to enjoy applesauce with an exciting twist. It’s simple, nutritious, and packed with vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal or snack. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite homemade treat!
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Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce combines sweet apples, earthy beets, and fresh strawberries to create a naturally colorful and deliciously healthy fruit sauce. Cooked quickly under pressure in the Instant Pot and pureed to a smooth consistency, this applesauce is perfect as a snack, dessert, or addition to breakfast dishes.
Ingredients
Fruits and Vegetables
- 6 apples, cored and roughly chopped (skins left on for extra fiber; Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 medium red beet (about 5 ounces), washed, peeled, and roughly chopped
- 16 ounces fresh strawberries (about 4 cups whole; frozen berries also acceptable)
Others
- 1½ Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Core and roughly chop the apples, peel and chop the beet, and measure out the strawberries, lemon juice, cinnamon, and water.
- Combine in Instant Pot: Place all prepped ingredients into the Instant Pot insert and spread evenly.
- Seal and cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and lock it into place. Ensure the valve is set to ‘sealing’. Select HIGH pressure cooking and set the timer for 8 minutes. Note that it will take about 10 minutes for the pot to reach pressure before the cooking timer starts.
- Release pressure: When the cooking cycle completes, immediately perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to venting.
- Puree the sauce: Remove the lid cautiously. Using an immersion blender, puree the contents directly in the pot until reaching your desired sauce consistency. If an immersion blender is not available, allow the sauce to cool slightly, then transfer it in batches to a blender to puree.
- Cool and store: Note that the sauce may appear thin when warm but will thicken as it cools. Enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for several months.
Notes
- Using apples with skins increases fiber content, but peeling is optional based on texture preference.
- Frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are not available; no need to thaw before cooking.
- The sauce consistency can be adjusted by blending less or more depending on your texture preference.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- This recipe naturally contains no added sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of fruits.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes (plus 10 minutes pressure build-up and 5 minutes pressure release)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
