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.
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.