Name: Delicious Strawberry Beet Applesauce for a Healthy Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Apples (Varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best.); 1 medium Red Beet (Washed, peeled, and roughly chopped.); 4 cups Fresh Strawberries (Whole or can use frozen as a substitute.); 1.5 tablespoons Lemon Juice (For optimal flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Water (Ensures the right consistency.)

Let’s face it: trying to sneak healthier options into our meals can sometimes feel like a covert mission. But with this Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce, transforming your kitchen into a colorful oasis of health has never been easier! This recipe blends the delightful sweetness of strawberries with the earthy richness of beets, creating an irresistibly vibrant treat without added sugar. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll whip up a delicious, kid-friendly applesauce that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even desserts. Imagine the smiles on your family’s faces as they savor this wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Plus, it’s not only dairy-free and gluten-free but also a fun way to sneak those veggies into your little ones’ diets! Ready to embark on this tasty adventure? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Applesauce So Irresistible?

Vibrant Colors: The stunning pink hue of this Strawberry Beet Applesauce makes it not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Quick Prep: Whip it up in under 30 minutes using your Instant Pot, perfect for busy days. Nutritious Delight: Packed with vitamins and fiber, it’s a guilt-free treat the whole family will love. Versatile Usage: Serve it warm, chilled, or blended into smoothies for an extra health boost. Plus, check out my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for another delicious way to enjoy strawberries! Kid-Friendly: Sneak in those veggies without the fuss, making it a beloved staple in your home. What more could you want in a healthy dessert?

Strawberry Beet Applesauce Ingredients

For the Applesauce

Apples – Provides natural sweetness and texture; varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best.
Red Beet – Adds earthiness, color, and nutrition; use one medium beet, washed, peeled, and roughly chopped.
Fresh Strawberries – Contributes sweetness and fruity flavor; about 4 cups whole or feel free to use frozen as a substitute.
Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness and adds brightness; about 1.5 tablespoons for optimal flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor complexity; 1 teaspoon enhances the overall taste of the strawberry beet applesauce.
Water – Aids in cooking and blending; about 1 cup ensures the right consistency.

Let’s create that beautiful dish together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Beet Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing, peeling, and roughly chopping one medium red beet and coring your choice of apples, such as Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp. Set aside about 4 cups of whole fresh strawberries, along with 1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Gather water, as you’ll need 1 cup, ensuring all ingredients are measured and ready to go for the next steps.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot
Place the prepared apples, chopped beet, whole strawberries, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and water into the bowl of your Instant Pot. Secure the lid tightly and ensure that the pressure valve is set to the sealing position. This setup will help lock in moisture and flavors as they cook, setting the stage for that delightful Strawberry Beet Applesauce.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Select the high-pressure cooking mode on your Instant Pot and set the timer for 8 minutes. As it builds pressure, you’ll hear a gentle hiss, and the little display will count down from 10 minutes. Once the countdown is complete, the pot will automatically switch to the keep-warm mode, so let it build up all that delicious steam while it cooks.

Step 4: Release the Pressure
When the 8 minutes are up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting; you may want to use a towel to shield your hand from the steam. Allow the mixture to cool slightly as the pressure fully releases, then carefully remove the lid. The contents will be bubbling and beautifully fragrant, with vivid colors from the strawberries and beets showcasing the depth of your Strawberry Beet Applesauce.

Step 5: Blend to Desired Consistency
Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture directly in the Instant Pot until you achieve your preferred consistency, whether smooth or slightly chunky. The vibrant colors meld together, creating a spectacularly creamy texture. Remember, the applesauce will thicken further as it cools, so blend according to your taste.

Step 6: Serve or Store
Once blended, serve the Strawberry Beet Applesauce warm, or allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. If you’re storing food, keep it refrigerated for up to a week or freeze portions in ice cube trays for long-term use. This delightful treat is not just delicious but also a fun way to include healthy ingredients in your family’s diet!

Strawberry Beet Applesauce Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists that tantalize taste buds!

Root Veggie Twist: Replace beets with carrot or sweet potato for a sweeter, alternative flavor profile. Each option brings a unique sweetness that kids will adore.
Berry Blend: Add in raspberries or even a handful of blueberries to amp up the fruity flavor. The more berries, the merrier, creating a luscious medley that’s pure joy!
Nutmeg Infusion: Add nutmeg along with cinnamon for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor. It’s a simple twist that elevates the taste experience and enchants your senses.
Citrus Burst: Toss in some orange zest for a refreshing zing that brightens the flavor. The citrus meets the earthiness of the beets beautifully!
Smoothie Base: Use the applesauce as a base for smoothies. Blend with your favorite dairy-free yogurt and a banana for an energizing breakfast or snack option.
Ginger Spice: Incorporate fresh grated ginger to bring a lively kick to the sweetness. The heat from ginger adds another level of complexity that will intrigue your palate.
Savory Variations: Consider using apples and beets without the added sweetness for a savory side dish. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can create a delightful complement to roasted meats.

And if you’re looking for more delicious ways to incorporate fruity flavors, don’t forget to check out my delightful Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for a family favorite twist on dessert! Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so get creative and have fun with these variations!

What to Serve with Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce

Brighten your meal with delightful pairings that enhance this colorful and healthy treat.

Creamy Yogurt: Add a dollop to your bowl for a satisfying contrast and a protein boost that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Granola Crunch: Sprinkle crunchy granola on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the fruity notes of the applesauce.
Pancakes or Waffles: Serve warm applesauce over pancakes or waffles; this fruity topping transforms your breakfast into a joyful feast.
Savory Oatmeal: Mix applesauce into oatmeal for a sweet twist that balances the heartiness with a burst of flavor.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes with the applesauce, creating a comforting blend of flavors on the plate.
Fruit Salad: Pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a vibrant medley of textures and deliciousness, making every bite a refreshing crunch.
Smoothie Bowl: Blend it into a smoothie bowl for a creamy, nutritious option that’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Sparkling Water: Refresh with a tall glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or mint; its effervescence beautifully complements the applesauce.
Dark Chocolate: Enjoy a piece of dark chocolate on the side for a rich, contrasting sweetness that adds a touch of indulgence to your healthy treat.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Beet Applesauce

Thicker Texture: For a creamier applesauce, reduce the amount of water. This allows the natural juices from the fruit to create a satisfyingly rich consistency.
Pressure Release Caution: If your Instant Pot is filled close to the top, consider using a natural release to prevent any messy splatters during the quick release phase.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices by adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavor of your Strawberry Beet Applesauce.
Cooking Alternatives: Don’t have an Instant Pot? Slow cook it on low for 6-7 hours or simmer on the stovetop until everything is tender; both methods yield delicious results!
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge, or freeze in ice cube trays for convenient, portioned use later.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Beet Applesauce

Fridge: Store the Strawberry Beet Applesauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Freezer: You can freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months. Pour it into ice cube trays for easy portioning, perfect for smoothies or quick snacks.

Thawing: To thaw frozen applesauce, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight, or pop it in the microwave until warmed through.

Reheating: Warm it up in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated to your preference. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce are a perfect solution for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep all the ingredients—peeling and chopping the beets, coring the apples, and washing the strawberries—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the vibrant color and freshness, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the chopped produce. When you’re ready to enjoy the applesauce, simply add all the prepped ingredients to the Instant Pot and follow the recipe instructions for cooking. This way, you’ll have a delightful, healthy snack or dessert with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!

Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Strawberry Beet Applesauce, I recommend using sweet varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp. Look for firm apples free of bruises or dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. If you prefer extra fiber, you can leave the skins on!

What’s the best way to store the applesauce?
Very! Store your Strawberry Beet Applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge, where it stays fresh for up to 1 week. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze it to enjoy later; keep reading for those details!

Can I freeze Strawberry Beet Applesauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months. Pour it into ice cube trays for easy portioning, perfect for quick snacks or smoothies. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air.

What if my applesauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find that your applesauce is too thin after blending, you can cook it down further. Simply return it to the Instant Pot or a saucepan over medium heat, simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, stirring often until it thickens to your liking.

Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
Very! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-free, and safe for many diets, including Paleo and Whole30. However, always double-check for cross-contamination if anyone has severe allergies.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can be used in place of fresh ones without compromising the taste. Just thaw them slightly before adding to your Instant Pot. This switch makes it even easier to whip up this delicious treat any time of the year!