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Looking for a dessert that brings cozy autumn vibes and a bit of boozy fun? These Instant Pot Fireball apple shortcakes are the answer. Apples are simmered with cinnamon whisky, maple syrup and warm spices, creating a rich, syrupy filling that pairs perfectly with sponge cake, whipped cream and caramel. It’s an easy yet impressive treat, ideal for fall gatherings or a fun midweek indulgence.

Mini cakes with caramel sauce and whipped cream, served alongside walnuts and cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball—a cozy twist inspired by Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes.

Instant Pot Fireball apple shortcakes are warm, spiced, and boozy, made with apples, whisky, and maple, then layered into sweet shortcake cups with whipped cream.

If you enjoy apple recipes, you might also like crockpot apple baked beans, Bisquick apple cobbler or this apple cider grilled chicken.

Mini sponge cake dessert cups topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, nuts, and sliced peaches make the perfect autumn Instant Pot dessert on a white plate.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy to make: Just a few simple steps in the Instant Pot and you’re halfway to dessert heaven.
Big flavor payoff: The Fireball whisky and maple give it bold, warm flavor.
Perfect for parties: It’s a crowd-pleaser with great presentation.
Customizable: Use your favorite cake base, nuts or sauce to make it your own.

Mini sponge cakes topped with caramel sauce, whipped cream, and cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball—these Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes are a tempting fireball whiskey dessert recipe served in a row on a white tray.

Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcake Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Apples: Fuji apples work well here for sweetness and firmness.
Lemon juice: Prevents browning and adds tart balance.
Brown sugar: Dark brown sugar adds richness and molasses depth.
Maple extract: Boosts the maple flavor for a warm, cozy aroma.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and texture; one version is cinnamon-flavored for extra spice.
Maple syrup: Brings a rich, natural sweetness that complements the whisky.
Honey: Adds another layer of sweetness and helps glaze the apples.
Cinnamon whisky: Fireball or similar gives a bold, spicy kick to the apples.
Spices: Star anise and cinnamon sticks infuse the filling with warming spice.
Cornstarch: Thickens the apple mixture into a spoonable sauce.
Dessert cups: Use sponge cake or shortcake for a soft, absorbent base.
Walnuts: Chopped for crunch and a nutty contrast.
Whipped cream: Soft and airy to lighten the richness.
Caramel sauce: Adds a smooth, sweet finish.

A bowl of apples and ingredients on a marble surface, perfect for crafting cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball or an irresistible Fireball whiskey dessert recipe.

How to Make Fireball Apple Shortcakes

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Prep the apples: Peel and slice, then toss with lemon juice.
Add flavorings: Mix apples with sugars, maple extract, syrup, honey, and whisky.
Pressure cook: Pour everything into the Instant Pot and top with spices.
Make slurry: Mix cornstarch with water, stir into pot.
Cook and release: Set to manual high pressure, let release naturally, then quick release.
Assemble desserts: Spoon apples into cups, top with whipped cream, caramel and walnuts.

Half-eaten Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes with whipped cream and nuts on a white plate, featuring cinnamon apples soaked in fireball, served with a black fork.

Substitutions and Variations

Change the fruit: Try pears or peaches instead of apples for a twist.
Go nut-free: Skip the walnuts or use seeds for a crunch alternative.
Use pound cake: Instead of sponge or shortcake, pound cake works beautifully.
Non-alcoholic: Use cinnamon extract and extra maple instead of whisky.

Individual sponge cake dessert cups are topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and caramelized apples for a cozy Autumn Instant Pot dessert—perfect as Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes on a white tray.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizers: Begin your meal with an Autumn chicken salad or turkey and vegetable soup.
Main dishes: Enjoy beef short rib ragu or perhaps Mediterranean steak bowls.
Dessert: Serve these delicious Instant Pot apple shortcakes for dessert, perhaps with a mug of boozy hot chocolate spiked with Fireball whisky!

Yellow sponge cake dessert cups topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, walnuts, and apple slices make the perfect Autumn Instant Pot dessert, beautifully presented on stacked white plates.

How to Store Apple Fireball Shortcakes

Store: You can store the cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball for up to 5 days in a covered container in the fridge.
Freeze: If you are wondering about freezing this Autumn Instant pot dessert, you can! In fact, the apple mixture will keep for up to 6 months in an airtight container in the freezer. Since the shortcake shells are readymade, just freeze the apple mixture by itself.
Thaw:
 Defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat: You can warm them back up in your Instant Pot or in the microwave and then add the toppings and serve.

A sponge cake dessert cup topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and spiced apple slices creates a tempting Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes treat on a white plate.

Top Tips

Use firm apples: They hold up better during pressure cooking.
Stir well after cooking: This ensures even distribution of syrup and spice.
Toast the nuts: A quick toast brings out their flavor for better contrast.

Mini cake topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, nuts, and diced fruit—this treat is inspired by our Autumn Instant Pot dessert collection.

Instant Pot Shortcakes with Apples FAQs

Can I double the recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes, just make sure not to go over the max fill line and allow extra pressure time.

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook it on the stovetop in a pot with a lid until the apples are soft and saucy.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling ensures a softer, more consistent texture once cooked.

Mini cakes topped with whipped cream, walnuts, and cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball on a white surface—an irresistible Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes treat. Apples and nuts scattered nearby complete this fireball whiskey dessert recipe scene.

Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes Recipe

5 from 6 votes

Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Warm, saucy apples with a fiery twist meet soft cakes and creamy toppings in this easy dessert. It’s comforting, bold and just fancy enough to impress your guests.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients 

To Serve

  • 12 dessert cups, sponge cake or shortcake
  • 1/4 Cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 Cup whipped cream 
  • 1/4 Cup caramel sauce

Instructions 

  • Peel the apples and slice into ¼-inch pieces.
  • Place sliced apples into a large mixing bowl. Toss in the lemon juice. This will prevent the apple slices from browning.  
  • Add brown sugar, maple extract, cinnamon, sugar, maple syrup, honey, and Fireball whiskey to the bowl with the apples. Stir until well combined. Pour the bowl into the Instant Pot. Top with star anise and cinnamon sticks.  
  • Make a slurry. Combine water and cornstarch in a small bowl and whisk. Pour into the instant pot and stir well.  
  • Seal the Instant Pot. Set to manual high pressure for 3 minutes. Once complete, allow natural release for 3 minutes, then quick release the remaining steam
  • Stir the apples, then add ½ cup to each dessert shell.  
  • Top with whipped cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.

Notes

Use firm apples: They hold up better during pressure cooking.
Stir well after cooking: This ensures even distribution of syrup and spice.
Toast the nuts: A quick toast brings out their flavor for better contrast.

Nutrition

Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 21mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 39g | Vitamin A: 90IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg
Like this recipe? Rate and comment below!

Whether you’re serving up a fun fall dessert, bringing something new to the table for guests, or just treating yourself, Instant Pot Fireball apple shortcakes are a hit. With their sweet heat, fluffy cream and caramel finish, they strike the perfect balance between cozy and exciting. Use your favorite sponge base, spice level or nut topping to tailor it to your tastes and enjoy every last spoonful. Cinnamon apples soaked in Fireball are a perfect Autumn dessert idea.

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Bella Bucchiotti

Bella Bucchiotti is a Canadian-based syndicated food, travel, and lifestyle writer, photographer, and creator at xoxoBella. She founded xoxoBella in 2015, where she shares her love for food, dogs, sustainability, fitness, crafts, outdoor adventures, travel, and philanthropy to encourage others to run the extra mile, try new recipes, visit unfamiliar places, and stand for a cause. Bella creates stress-free and family-friendly recipes for weeknight dinners and festive feasts.

 

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5 from 6 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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