Instant Pot Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels cozy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible, this Instant Pot Apple Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine the aroma of warm cinnamon-spiced apples filling your kitchen, the soft, moist cake layered with tender fruit, and just a hint of orange and vanilla to brighten every bite. It’s the kind of cake that makes you want to grab a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy a slice while it’s still slightly warm. The Instant Pot makes it effortless, so you get all the homemade goodness without standing over the oven for ages. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to for any occasion.

Recipe Origin:
Apple cakes are a classic dessert with roots in European home baking, often made to celebrate harvest season. This version uses the Instant Pot to make it faster and easier while keeping the moist texture and rich flavors intact. It’s perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you want a little slice of cozy comfort.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Instant Pot or pressure cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for the apples
• A cake pan that fits inside your Instant Pot (usually 7-inch)

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Apple Cake
This apple cake isn’t just about dessert—it’s about creating a moment. The sweet, fragrant apples and moist cake combine to make something that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. You can enjoy it plain or top with whipped cream, ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Apples, sugar, flour, eggs, and a few pantry staples come together to create a cake that tastes like it took hours to make.

Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot does all the work for you. No need to worry about uneven baking, and you don’t heat up your whole kitchen with the oven.

Customizable: Add raisins, chopped nuts, or a splash of rum for extra flavor. Adjust cinnamon to suit your taste, or try adding nutmeg for a warm, autumnal touch.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the combination of apples, cinnamon, and moist cake. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:

• Make sure your apples are diced evenly for consistent texture throughout the cake.
• Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
• Grease the cake pan thoroughly or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Let the cake cool slightly before removing from the pan to avoid breaking.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful, classic finish.

Ingredients in Instant Pot Apple Cake
Each ingredient brings something special to this cake. Together, they create a moist, flavorful dessert that’s full of warmth and comfort.

Apples: The heart of the cake. Sweet, tender, and slightly spiced with cinnamon, they add moisture and flavor that makes every bite delicious.

Ground Cinnamon and Granulated Sugar: Spice and sweetness for the apple topping, enhancing the natural flavor of the fruit.

Flour: Forms the structure of the cake while keeping it tender.

Baking Powder and Sea Salt: Help the cake rise perfectly and balance flavors.

Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.

Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it caramelize slightly during cooking.

Orange Juice and Vanilla Extract: Add brightness and depth to the cake, complementing the apples perfectly.

Eggs: Bind the cake ingredients together while adding richness.

Water: Used in the Instant Pot to create the steam necessary for pressure cooking.

Powdered Sugar: For a classic, pretty decoration on top.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s create this flavorful, moist apple cake step by step:

Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating needed, but ensure your Instant Pot is clean and the trivet is in place.

Prepare the Apples: In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon and granulated sugar. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt. In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, sugar, orange juice, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.

Combine Apples and Batter: Gently fold the spiced apples into the cake batter. Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan that fits inside your Instant Pot.

Add Water to the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the inner pot and place the trivet inside. Carefully lower the cake pan onto the trivet.

Cook the Cake: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes. When the cooking time is up, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.

Finishing Touches: Remove the cake from the Instant Pot and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature. Pair with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm apple flavor and tender cake will make everyone smile.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8–10
Calories per serving: Approximately 280
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Instant Pot Apple Cake
This cake is delicious on its own but can be paired with a few extras to make it extra special.

Fresh Fruit: Slices of apple or pear on the side enhance the fresh flavor.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that complements the cake perfectly.
Coffee or Tea: The subtle spices in the cake pair beautifully with a warm beverage.
As a Breakfast Treat: Serve a slice for a morning indulgence or brunch centerpiece.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This cake can be prepared in advance and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving, if desired. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to a month—wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then thaw before serving.

Variations to Try:

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Fold in raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
• Mix in a little ground nutmeg or allspice for a warmer flavor profile.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for extra sweetness.
• Replace some of the sugar with brown sugar for a richer, deeper flavor.

Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Dice the apples and mix the batter ahead of time for quicker assembly.
Spice It Up: Adjust cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for more warmth.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free flour or substitute sugar with a sugar alternative if needed.
Storage Tips: Keep covered to prevent the cake from drying out.
Double the Batch: Make a double recipe and use two pans in the Instant Pot or cook sequentially for larger gatherings.

FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use different types of apples?
A1: Yes, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter apples like Honeycrisp work beautifully.

Q2: Can I bake this cake in the oven instead?
A2: Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Q3: How long can leftovers be stored?
A3: 2 days at room temperature, 4 days in the fridge.

Q4: Can I make this cake vegan?
A4: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based oil.

Q5: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A5: Yes, fold in your preferred mix-ins for added texture and flavor.

Q6: Can I make it sweeter?
A6: Add a little extra sugar to the apple topping or drizzle glaze on top.

Q7: Can I use frozen apples?
A7: Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent extra moisture in the cake.

Q8: How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
A8: Grease the pan thoroughly or line with parchment paper.

Q9: Can I double the recipe in one Instant Pot?
A9: It’s best to cook in batches to ensure even cooking.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this cake?
A10: Warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, optionally paired with ice cream or whipped cream.

Conclusion
This Instant Pot Apple Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert. It combines tender, spiced apples with moist, flavorful cake, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, comforting, and full of warmth, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether it’s for a special holiday, a weekend treat, or a last-minute dessert, this cake delivers all the flavors and comfort you want without any stress.

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