Step 1

Peel 4 large sweet apples and 4 large tart apples. Halve and core them, then cut them into large chunks. Place the chunks in an electric pressure cooker or Instant Pot.

Step 2

Add 1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and stir to distribute the cinnamon as evenly as possible.

Step 3

Lock the lid on the pressure cooker and make sure the valve is set to seal. Set to cook for 5 minutes under HIGH pressure. It should take about 10 minutes to come up to pressure.

Step 4

When the cook time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 20 minutes. Manually release any remaining pressure.

Step 5

Uncover the pressure cooker. For chunky applesauce, use a potato masher to mash the apples to the desired consistency. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to purée the applesauce directly in the pot until smooth, 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 6

Taste the applesauce and, while it's still warm, add 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, if desired. When cool, transfer the applesauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.