Similar to many home cooks across the U.S., I recently purchased an Instant Pot, an innovative appliance that combines the functions of an electric pressure cooker and slow cooker. This gadget has gained immense popularity through personal recommendations. I find it indispensable for preparing quick meals, especially during the holiday season, since it allows me to “set it and forget it”. In previous Halloweens, I spent a lot of time darting from the kitchen to the front door or my children’s rooms as they suited up for the festivities. This year, I’ll simply prepare my dish in the Instant Pot and then tend to the other Halloween activities.
The only remaining question is what to prepare. Thankfully, there is a wealth of spooky Halloween recipe ideas available from countless food bloggers. (Also check out: 11 Instant Pot Dishes That Prove Autumn Is the Season to Be Thankful)
1. Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread
Kickstart the sugar rush early on October 31 with this delectable and aromatic apple cinnamon roll variant. At least the little ones will be able to enjoy some fruit before heading to school!
2. One-Trick Chili
When the weather turns chilly, I like to offer a hearty meal for my trick-or-treaters before they venture out. Chili is a staple in my kitchen, and with jack-o’-lanterns everywhere, I’ll add some healthy squash to the mix using a delicious recipe for turkey and squash chili. I’ll pair it with mummy dogs baked in the oven.
3. Hot Apple Cider
While you can easily heat store-bought cider or apple juice in the Instant Pot, take it up a notch and prepare a flavorful pot of fresh apple cider just as your trick-or-treaters are setting out. A few hours later, they’ll return to the delightful aroma filling the house. I’ll be adding a splash of bourbon to my serving. (See: 9 Tempting Reasons Cider Is Our Favorite Autumn Beverage)
4. Hot Cocoa
If you’ve been out accompanying trick-or-treaters and didn’t have time to whip up something warm for their return, the Instant Pot can help you create a rich, less sugary hot cocoa in just six minutes, using the guidance from this YouTube tutorial.
5. Spider Web or Pumpkin Cheesecake
Cheesecake has become a signature dish for the Instant Pot, and to truly wow your guests at any Halloween festivity, consider making this charming cheesecake adorned with a dulce de leche spider web. If you want to add a Halloween twist, swap the standard cheesecake for a pumpkin-flavored version, also topped with a dulce de leche design. You can even cook the dulce de leche in the Instant Pot itself. If the spider web decoration seems too complex, simply crush candy bars for a festive topping. For parties, these recipes can also be transformed into individual cheesecakes placed in Mason jars. Just remember, cheesecakes need about 12 hours to chill in the fridge, so it’s wise to start this recipe a day ahead of serving.
6. Pumpkin Pudding
In search of a gluten-free dessert? This sophisticated treat resembles a pudding in the style of an English Christmas pudding, but is more cake-like in texture. It’s not overly sweet, making it a fantastic option for pre-trick-or-treat gatherings when everyone is about to indulge in candy.
7. Oreo Pops
If you have little ones that you want to surprise with a delightful Halloween treat, this is a perfect option. Use the Instant Pot to melt chocolate, then dip Oreos on lollipop sticks to craft treats resembling spiders, monsters, or skeletons.
8. Apple Crisp in a Pot
Pies are great, but they can be time-consuming to bake. This apple crisp recipe cooks in just eight minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or save some for a dollop of yogurt in the morning after Halloween. With Halloween occurring on a school night again, having a breakfast option ready will be a lifesaver.
9. Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Featuring pureed pumpkin, a banana, and Greek yogurt, this pumpkin Bundt cake qualifies as a healthier choice for breakfast the morning after Halloween. Just envision those chocolate chips as spiders to ease any guilt over calories—though embracing the chocolate might be the better option!
