Description
These Spiced Cinnamon Whiskey Apple Shortcakes with Whipped Cream and Caramel are the ultimate fall indulgence. Juicy, spiced apples cooked in a luscious syrup with hints of cinnamon and whiskey, all piled high on fluffy shortcakes and finished with whipped cream and caramel drizzle—this dessert is as stunning as it is delicious. It’s quick to make with the help of your Instant Pot and perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening.
Ingredients
For the 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 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 Apple Topping:
- Peel and slice the Fuji apples into thin wedges and toss them with lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning.
- Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add dark brown sugar, cinnamon sugar, granulated sugar, maple syrup, honey, and cinnamon whiskey. Stir until combined.
- Add the star anise, cinnamon sticks, prepared apples, and water to the pot. Stir well to coat the apples in the spiced syrup.
- Cancel the “Sauté” mode, secure the Instant Pot lid, and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 3 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, switch back to “Sauté” mode, and slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens to a caramel-like consistency. Remove the star anise and cinnamon sticks.
Assemble the Shortcakes:
- Place a sponge cake or shortcake cup on each serving plate.
- Generously spoon the warm spiced apple mixture over each cake, allowing some of the syrup to soak into the cake for extra flavor.
- Top each dessert with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for crunch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce for the finishing touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead: The apple topping can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have cinnamon whiskey, replace it with apple cider or regular whiskey mixed with a pinch of cinnamon.
- Customization: Swap walnuts for pecans, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American