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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

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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

  1. Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
  2. Prepare the Crust – Roll out the pie crust and cut into circles to fit muffin cups. Press into the tin to form mini cups.
  3. 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.
  4. Fill the Cups – Spoon the apple mixture into the crust cups.
  5. Bake – Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
  6. Drizzle with Caramel – Top each cup with warm caramel sauce.
  7. 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!

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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

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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!

  • Author: Beth
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until combined.
  2. 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

  1. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
  2. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and caramelized.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups

  1. Spoon or pipe cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
  2. Add a generous layer of caramelized apples on top.
  3. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
  4. Optional: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

  1. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. 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!

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