Effortless fall comfort in your pressure cooker
This Instant Pot Apple Crisp is the ultimate shortcut for fall desserts. With just 10 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of hands-on work, you'll have a warm, bubbly apple dessert that rivals any oven-baked version. The pressure cooker's steamy heat caramelizes the apples perfectly while the oat topping forms a golden crust. Ideal for families craving cozy flavors without the cleanup!
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want a post-dinner treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The Instant Pot does all the work while you enjoy a stress-free evening.
The magic lies in the pressure cooking method—low-moisture apples become tender but retain their shape, while the topping develops a perfect crisp. No need to wait for an oven to preheat or monitor cooking times.
This recipe also plays well with others. Pair it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch. It's the perfect way to use up leftover apples from your fall harvest.
Ready to transform your dessert game? Let's dive into why this Instant Pot Apple Crisp deserves a permanent spot in your fall recipe rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
15-Minute Set-and-Forget
Once you seal the Instant Pot, simply wait 5 minutes of pressure cooking. No constant monitoring required—perfect for multitasking while dinner cooks.
Zero Baking Skills Needed
No need for precise oven temperatures or worry about over-browning. The pressure cooker ensures even cooking every time.
Naturally Sweetened
The apples caramelize beautifully without added sugar. For extra flavor, use a splash of apple cider instead of water.
Family-Size Portions
Serves 6 with leftovers for breakfast. The topping reheats beautifully in the microwave.
Instant Pot Apple Crisp
15-Minute Set-and-Forget Dessert
Ingredients
- - 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
- - 1/4 cup brown sugar
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 cup apple juice
Instructions
Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/4-inch slices. In a large bowl, toss with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
💡 Tip: Use a mandoline for even slicing
Make Topping: In a food processor, pulse oats, butter, brown sugar, remaining 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and nutmeg until crumbly. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Use a silicone spatula to press topping evenly
Layer in Instant Pot: Place apples in a 6-quart Instant Pot. Pour apple juice over apples. Spread topping evenly over apples.
💡 Tip: Use the trivet if using a ceramic liner
Cook: Seal lid. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release valve.
💡 Tip: Let stand 10 minutes before serving
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apples
Use firm apples for best texture. Granny Smith provides tart balance; Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
Substitute: Pears or a mix of apples and pears for variation
Oats
Old-fashioned oats provide the right texture. Quick oats will make topping too crumbly.
Substitute: Gluten-free oats for dietary restrictions
Butter
Cold butter creates larger crumbs. Melted butter makes a more compact topping.
Substitute: Coconut oil for dairy-free version
Apple Juice
Adds moisture and enhances apple flavor. Water works, but results are less aromatic.
Substitute: Apple cider for extra flavor
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
Apple Selection
Mix sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor. 4 Granny Smith + 2 Honeycrisp works well.
Topping Technique
Press topping firmly into the Instant Pot. This prevents it from floating during cooking.
Timing
Let the dish rest 10 minutes after cooking to allow topping to set properly.
Serving
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall dessert.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Version
Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all spices are gluten-free. Substitute coconut oil for butter.
Spiced Topping
Add 1/2 tsp ground cardamom or 1/4 tsp nutmeg to the topping for extra warmth.
Nutty Crunch
Stir in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans with the oats for added texture.
Caramel Drizzle
Top with a homemade caramel sauce made from 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream with caramel swirl
- Whipped cream with a cinnamon sprinkle
- Warm apple cider in mugs
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a spiced chai tea or a buttery Chardonnay to complement the apple flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the apple mixture and topping separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight containers.
Freezer Storage
Assemble in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat individual portions in microwave for 1-2 minutes or in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my apples too soft?
A: Apples may have been overcooked. Try reducing pressure cooking time to 4 minutes for firmer texture.
Q: My topping is too soggy.
A: The topping may need more time to set. Let the dish rest for the full 10 minutes after cooking.
Q: Can I use a different fruit?
A: Yes! Pears, peaches, or even a mix of apples and pears work well. Adjust cooking time slightly if using softer fruits.
Q: How to prevent apple juice from making a mess?
A: Pour juice slowly and tilt the pot to distribute evenly. This prevents it from pooling under the topping.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Apple Crisp is the ultimate shortcut for fall desserts. With just 15 minutes of hands-on work, you'll have a warm, bubbly apple dessert that rivals any oven-baked version. The pressure cooker's steamy heat caramelizes the apples perfectly while the oat topping forms a golden crust.
This recipe is perfect for families who want to enjoy homemade dessert without the hassle. The Instant Pot does all the work while you enjoy a stress-free evening. Whether serving with dinner or enjoying leftovers with breakfast, this apple crisp is sure to become a fall favorite.
