If you’re craving a cozy dessert that brings warmth, spice, and a touch of decadence to your table, this recipe for Spiced Cinnamon Whiskey Apple Shortcakes is the perfect treat. Made with tender, caramelized apples infused with cinnamon whiskey and spiced with star anise and maple, this dessert brings together comforting flavors and rich textures in every bite. These shortcakes are easy to prepare in the Instant Pot, making it simple to achieve that slow-cooked flavor in less time. Topped with whipped cream, chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, these shortcakes make for an unforgettable dessert experience!
Ingredients
Apple Topping
- 6 Fuji apples, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons maple extract
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ tablespoon honey
- ¼ cup cinnamon-flavored whiskey (e.g., Fireball)
- 3 whole star anise
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with a little water to make a slurry
For Serving
- 12 sponge cake or shortcake cups
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup whipped cream
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, combine the apple slices and lemon juice, tossing to coat the apples evenly. This step keeps the apples fresh and prevents them from browning as you prepare the other ingredients.
- Add Ingredients to Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add the dark brown sugar, cinnamon sugar, granulated sugar, maple syrup, honey, and cinnamon whiskey.
- Add Spices and Apples: Add the star anise and cinnamon sticks to the mixture, followed by the prepared apples. Pour in the water and give everything a good stir, ensuring the apples are well-coated in the spiced syrup.
- Pressure Cook: Cancel the “Sauté” function, then secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken the Sauce: Open the lid and switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring to thicken the apple mixture to a luscious, caramel-like consistency. Once thickened, cancel the “Sauté” function and remove the star anise and cinnamon sticks.
- Assemble the Shortcakes: Place a sponge cake or shortcake cup on each serving plate. Spoon the warm, spiced apple mixture generously over each cake, letting some of the sauce soak into the cake for extra flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle each dessert with chopped walnuts, add a dollop of whipped cream, and finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures!
Conclusion
These Spiced Cinnamon Whiskey Apple Shortcakes are a delightful way to end any meal, combining the warmth of spiced apples with the richness of whipped cream and caramel. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, this dessert feels both decadent and cozy, perfect for special gatherings or a comforting treat on a cool evening. Enjoy every bite of this beautifully spiced, easy-to-make dessert!