Description
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups feature layers of cinnamon-spiced apples, creamy whipped filling, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. They’re easy to make and perfect for parties, offering the rich flavor of caramel apples in a bite-sized, elegant dessert cup.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
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Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
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Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
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Toppings:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade
- Crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Apple Layer:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Prepare the Creamy Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
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Assemble the Dessert Cups:
- In small dessert cups, layer a spoonful of the apple mixture, followed by a layer of the creamy filling.
- Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of the creamy mixture on top.
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Add Toppings:
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each dessert cup.
- Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or nuts, if desired.
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Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: These dessert cups can be assembled and refrigerated up to 1 day in advance, making them an excellent choice for entertaining.
- Apple Alternatives: Pears can be substituted for apples for a fun twist.
- Caramel Sauce Option: If you prefer, make a homemade caramel sauce by melting sugar, butter, and cream for a richer, from-scratch flavor.