The inexpensive side dish we eat allll year long. I usually include fruit with dinner. My kids love fruit and, as such, sometimes we don’t have much left in the house.
Simple side solution? Instant Pot Baked Apples!
Note: the batch in this photo we got fancy and topped with my Paleo baked granola and whipped coconut topping, which are not Whole30 compatible. But my boys love it even with just the baked apples, which are Whole30. My kids felt like they were getting dessert for dinner. I’m going with fruit salad?!
Could you go for this all year long or is this just a fall dish to you?

Whole30 Instant Pot Cooked Apples
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 3 fuji apples see note
- 1 tablespoon ghee or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon or apple pie spice
Instructions
- Turn your instant pot on to saute. Add ghee to melt it while you cut the apples.
- Slice the apples into 8 slices, this can be rough. I often use an apple slicer for these that automatically cuts it into 8 slices. Also, Ieave the skins on - more nutrients and less rep time!
- Put apple slices into the instant pot and sprinkle with cinnamon or apple pie spice. Stir until combined.
- Seal instant pot and steam by pushing the "Steam" button, for 7 minutes. When done, release steam and enjoy warm. Apples should be just tender. So cozy and delicious!
Notes
NOTE: The cooked apples are Whole30 compatible. The Paleo Granola and Whipped Topping pictured are paleo and delicious toppings with the cooked apples, but not Whole30 compatible if you are on a Whole30.
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CAN I USE OTHER KINDS OF APPLES? Yes, but keep in mind apples have a broad range of sweetness and firmness. Fuji apples are perfect here because they are hard and sweet. Granny smith are also a good option for another hard apple with the same cooking time, but will be tart. Other apples will need a lower cooking time or they will just turn into mush...i.e. applesauce! ; ).
Any other way to cook these? I don’t have an instant pot.
You definitely can just bake them in the oven. I would follow the instructions but put them in a 9×9 pan instead of the instant pot. Cover with foil and bake at 425 until tender but hold their shape. The amount of time will vary based on the type of apple you use, so check and stir every 10 minutes until tender. Enjoy!
Excellent, surprised I did not miss not using sugar. Of course you can cook this on the stove I used a pot not even a skillet just a small pot and put it in and like they said about 7 minutes you good to go.
This is an epic treat, thank you!!
I’m so happy you enjoyed this easy one, thank you!
I never thought Of using the IP for apples. What a great idea. Thank you!
It’s a great easy way to get that soft baked apple result 😍
I made these apples a few days ago and they are so delicious and super simple !! I am making them again this week and going to make the paleo granola to pair with it 😋
Yay! Happy they are an easy delicious option you want to make again. Thank you!