As I stepped into the kitchen, a burst of excitement hit me—who knew that combining strawberries and beets could transform into such a delightful dish? This Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce captures the essence of wholesome comfort food while sneaking in veggies without anyone suspecting. With no added sugar and a vibrant color that kids love, it’s the perfect way to provide a nutritious snack that’s both delicious and fun. Plus, this quick recipe utilizes the magic of the Instant Pot, making it a go-to for busy families craving healthy homemade options. Who wouldn’t want a veggie-loaded treat that doubles as a snack or breakfast idea? Ready to dive into this colorful twist on a classic? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this applesauce a must-try?
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with sweet apples and earthy beets, this recipe is all about simple, nutrient-rich components that kids will love.
No Added Sugar: You can feel good serving this applesauce to your family, as it contains no added sugar—just pure fruity goodness!
Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, enjoy a delicious homemade treat ready in minutes, freeing up your time for more family fun.
Versatile Snack: Perfect as a breakfast topping, a snack on its own, or even as baby food—this applesauce adapts to your family’s needs!
Sneaky Veggie Boost: It creatively incorporates beets, ensuring your little ones get a hefty dose of vitamins without even noticing—just like in Strawberry Shortcake Sushi they won’t resist.
Kid-Approved: With its vibrant color and delightful flavor, watch as your kids beg for more of this delicious and healthy treat!
Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Ingredients
For the Applesauce
- Apples – Use sweet varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet base.
- Beet – Adds a gorgeous color and earthy flavor; choose one medium beet or two small.
- Strawberries – Fresh or frozen berries work well for a burst of fruity sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
- Ground Cinnamon – Introduces a warm, cozy note to the overall taste.
- Water – Adjust the amount for desired thickness; less water results in a thicker sauce.
Let’s make this delicious Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce that your kids will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering and prepping your ingredients for the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce. Core and chop 4 apples into small pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Peel and chop 1 medium beet into smaller chunks, and rinse about 1 cup of strawberries if using fresh. Lay everything out so it’s within arm’s reach for smooth cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Carefully place the prepared apples, chopped beets, and strawberries into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to enhance the flavors. Pour in about ½ cup of water to achieve the right consistency during cooking; less water yields a thicker sauce. Stir everything together well to combine.
Step 3: Seal and Cook
With all ingredients combined, close the Instant Pot lid securely and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the time to HIGH pressure for 8 minutes. It will take approximately 10 minutes for the pot to reach pressure before cooking begins, during which anticipation builds for your vibrant applesauce.
Step 4: Release Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Watch out for steam as it escapes! When the pressure indicator drops, gently open the lid — you’ll be greeted by a delightful aroma and a beautiful blend of colors from your Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce.
Step 5: Blend
After allowing the steam to escape fully, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the mixture to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can transfer the contents into a regular blender; just be cautious as it’s hot. Blend until creamy, and let the vibrant colors swirl together for a lovely pink hue.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once blended, allow the applesauce to cool slightly in the pot. As it cools, it will thicken up a bit. Transfer it into an airtight container for storage. This delicious Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce can be kept in the fridge for up to a week or frozen in small portions for longer storage, ready for your family’s healthy snacking needs!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days, ensuring freshness while keeping it ready for healthy snacking or breakfast toppings.
Freezer: Portion into small containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you have easy access to this delightful veggie-loaded treat whenever you need it.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce, thaw in the fridge overnight or use a microwave on low. Stir well before serving to restore texture.
Reheating: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warm, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce
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Choose Apples Wisely: Use sweet apples like Gala or Honeycrisp for the best flavor. Avoid tart varieties to keep the applesauce kid-friendly and delicious.
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Beet Prep: Make sure to cut beets into small, even pieces for quicker cooking. If too large, they may not cook through, leaving chunks in your sauce.
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Adjust Consistency: For a thicker applesauce, reduce the water. Start with less and add more if needed after cooking. Remember, it will thicken as it cools.
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Cooling Method: Allow the applesauce to cool in the pot. It will continue to firm up during this time, ensuring a perfect texture when you serve.
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Safety First: When quick releasing pressure, always stand back and use a towel to avoid steam burns. For a safer method, opt for natural release for a few minutes.
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Storage Tips: Keep leftover Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze in portions for future fun snacks!
What to Serve with Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce
Imagine a colorful table filled with comforting dishes that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your strawberry beet applesauce.
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Creamy Yogurt:
Pair with a dollop of creamy yogurt for a delightful contrast. The tanginess and creaminess balance the fruity sweetness wonderfully. -
Oatmeal Pancakes:
Fluffy pancakes drizzled with a bit of applesauce create a wholesome breakfast. The sweetness of the sauce seeps into each bite, making it truly irresistible. -
Granola Bars:
Homemade granola bars add crunch and nutrition. They provide a perfect on-the-go snack that works harmoniously with the applesauce. -
Whole Wheat Toast:
Spread some applesauce on warm, toasted bread. The crunchy texture of the toast paired with the luscious sauce makes for a satisfying snack any time of the day. -
Cheese Platter:
A cheese board with creamy brie and sharp cheddar complements the sweetness uniquely. The melty cheese and fruity applesauce offer a dynamic flavor experience. -
Nut Butter:
Spread almond or peanut butter on rice cakes or whole-grain crackers and top with applesauce for an exciting twist on a classic snack. -
Sparkling Water:
Consider sparkling water with fresh lemon or mint as a refreshing drink. Its effervescence can lighten up the meal, elevating all its delicious flavors. -
Chocolate Cookies:
Sweet, soft cookies create a lovely texture contrast. Enjoying them with a spoonful of applesauce is like having dessert and fruit all in one! -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop on the side takes indulgence to another level. The cold, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with warm applesauce for a delightful treat.
Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Variations
Customize your Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!
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Berry Medley:
Swap strawberries for mixed berries like blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant blend of flavors. -
Cinnamon Twist:
Add an extra teaspoon of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a cozy autumn-inspired flavor profile. -
Vanilla Dreams:
Incorporate a splash of vanilla extract to elevate the sweetness and depth of your applesauce. -
Pineapple Pizzazz:
Mix in crushed pineapple for a tropical twist and extra sweetness that children will love. -
Chunky Style:
Leave some chunks of apples and beets for a textured sauce that adds a delightful bite, perfect for older kids. -
Spicy Kick:
For adventurous eaters, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness. -
Nutty Infusion:
Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and heartiness, making it a more filling snack option.
Feel free to experiment with these variations or check out other delightful recipes like Frozen Strawberry Lemonade or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake to add your own twist to family favorites!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the apples, beets, and strawberries up to 24 hours in advance; simply chop and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To maintain their vibrant color and taste, add a splash of lemon juice to the chopped ingredients. When you’re ready to cook, just combine the prepped ingredients in the Instant Pot and follow the final steps of sealing, cooking on HIGH for 8 minutes, and blending to your desired consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy a healthy, homemade snack with minimal effort!
Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor, I recommend using sweet varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp. These apples provide the natural sweetness that makes the applesauce delightful and kid-friendly, avoiding the tartness of other varieties.
How should I store the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce?
You can store the applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to check for freshness before serving, but it’s a great healthy snack option ready for your family!
Can I freeze the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce?
Absolutely! Portion the applesauce into small containers or freezer bags, allowing for easy access. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or use a microwave on low.
What if my applesauce is too thin?
If you find that your applesauce is too thin after cooking, don’t fret! After blending, let it cool, as it will thicken further. If it’s still not the consistency you want, you can simmer it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until it reduces to your desired thickness.
Is this applesauce dog-friendly?
While the ingredients in Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce are safe for dogs in small amounts, remember that beets can be high in sugar. It’s best to offer only a small spoonful to your furry friend and consult with your veterinarian for any dietary concerns.
Can I change the fruits used in this recipe?
Certainly! You can swap out strawberries for other berries or try different apple varieties for unique flavors. If you’d like a touch of sweetness, a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the taste beautifully!
Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce for Happy Kids
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering and prepping your ingredients for the Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce. Core and chop 4 apples into small pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Peel and chop 1 medium beet into smaller chunks, and rinse about 1 cup of strawberries if using fresh.
- Carefully place the prepared apples, chopped beets, and strawberries into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Pour in about ½ cup of water. Stir together well.
- Close the Instant Pot lid securely and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the time to HIGH pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Gently open the lid to reveal your vibrant applesauce.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer to a regular blender and blend until creamy.
- Allow the applesauce to cool slightly in the pot. Transfer it into an airtight container for storage. Can be kept in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer.
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