Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful and easy-to-make treat featuring warm, spiced apples, rich caramel sauce, and a buttery crust. These handheld desserts are perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you’re craving a sweet, apple-filled indulgence. With layers of crisp pastry, gooey caramel, and tender apples, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Portable – Great for parties and gatherings.
- Classic Fall Flavors – Apples, cinnamon, and caramel create a cozy treat.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with minimal prep.
- Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate, or a crumble topping.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun dessert that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cups:
- Pre-made pie crust or phyllo dough
- Apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
- Butter
For the Topping:
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions

- Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
- Prepare the Crust – Roll out the pie crust and cut into circles to fit muffin cups. Press into the tin to form mini cups.
- Make the Apple Filling – In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes. Stir in cornstarch and cook until thickened.
- Fill the Cups – Spoon the apple mixture into the crust cups.
- Bake – Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- Drizzle with Caramel – Top each cup with warm caramel sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy! – Garnish with whipped cream, ice cream, or nuts.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 dessert cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
Variations
- Crumble Topping: Add a streusel topping before baking for extra crunch.
- Salted Caramel: Use sea salt caramel for a sweet-salty twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cups.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts for an allergy-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust or cookie dough.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked cups for up to 2 months; bake when ready.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes! A high-quality store-bought caramel sauce works great.
What apples work best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix of both.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Yes! Puff pastry will create a lighter, flakier texture.
Do I have to cook the apples before baking?
Pre-cooking ensures a softer filling and prevents excess liquid.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake fresh when needed.
How do I prevent soggy crusts?
Pre-bake the crusts for 5 minutes before adding the apple filling.
Can I make these bite-sized?
Yes! Use a mini muffin tin for smaller dessert cups.
What pairs well with these dessert cups?
A hot cup of coffee, apple cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Can I add oats to the topping?
Yes! Mix oats with brown sugar and butter for a crunchy oat topping.
How do I make homemade caramel?
Simmer sugar, butter, and heavy cream until smooth and golden brown.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the perfect bite-sized treat that brings together the comforting flavors of caramel and spiced apples in a flaky crust. Whether served warm with ice cream or as a festive party dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress. Try them today and savor every delicious bite!
PrintCaramel Apple Dessert Cups
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a sweet, creamy, and crunchy treat featuring warm spiced apples, buttery graham cracker crust, and rich caramel sauce—all served in individual cups for the perfect fall-inspired dessert. No baking required, making them quick and easy for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Creamy Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Extra whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until combined.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of 4-6 small cups or jars. Press lightly to form the crust.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
- Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and caramelized.
- Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups
- Spoon or pipe cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
- Add a generous layer of caramelized apples on top.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
- Optional: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: These can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Lighter Version: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use sugar-free caramel sauce.
- Crunchy Twist: Use crushed vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers.
- Boozy Version: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the caramelized apples for a grown-up twist!