Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

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CARAMEL APPLE DESSERT CUPS RECIPE

Introduction

Caramel apples are a timeless fall treat, combining the crisp sweetness of apples with the rich creaminess of caramel. This recipe transforms that classic flavor into easy-to-serve dessert cups, perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a sweet ending to a meal. With layers of spiced apples, buttery cookie crumbs, whipped cream, and smooth caramel sauce, these dessert cups are indulgent yet comforting. They capture the nostalgia of caramel-dipped apples in an elegant, spoonable form.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce (or store-bought):

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

For the Base Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits)
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cream Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish (optional):

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Extra caramel drizzle
  • Mini apple slices

Instructions and Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
  3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until apples soften and become caramelized.
  4. Remove from heat and cool.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat, stirring until golden amber.
  2. Add butter and whisk until smooth.
  3. Slowly pour in cream (it will bubble), whisking continuously.
  4. Add a pinch of salt. Cool before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Base Layer

  1. Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter.
  2. Press a spoonful into the bottom of each dessert cup or glass.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

  1. Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Dessert Cups

  1. Start with the graham cracker base.
  2. Add a spoonful of caramelized apples.
  3. Drizzle with caramel sauce.
  4. Top with whipped cream.
  5. Repeat layers if using larger glasses.
  6. Finish with more caramel drizzle and chopped nuts.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Serve cold for the best texture and flavor.

History

Caramel apples were first created in the 1950s in the United States, when a Kraft Foods employee experimented by melting leftover caramel candies and dipping apples into them. Since then, caramel apples have become a fall and Halloween tradition. Dessert cups are a modern twist on this heritage, making the classic combination easier to enjoy without the stick, mess, or difficulty of eating whole caramel apples.

Benefits

  • Easy to eat: Served in cups for convenience.
  • Balanced flavors: Sweet caramel, tart apples, crunchy crumbs, and creamy topping.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate, or spices for variations.
  • Seasonal appeal: Perfect for autumn, but enjoyable year-round.
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved: Loved by all ages.

Formation

This dessert forms through distinct, flavorful layers: a buttery crumb base, spiced apple filling, smooth caramel, and fluffy cream. Each bite combines crunch, softness, creaminess, and sweetness, making it a complete dessert experience in one spoonful.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful twist on a classic treat. They take the nostalgic flavors of caramel apples and reimagine them into an elegant, layered dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Lovers

These dessert cups are adored by children for their sweet caramel and soft apples, loved by adults for their elegant presentation, and cherished by families for their comforting, homemade flavor. They’re the perfect dessert for autumn celebrations, parties, or a cozy night in.

Final Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups prove that tradition can be transformed into innovation. By layering classic caramel-apple flavors into cups, this dessert combines nostalgia with convenience, creating a treat that is both festive and indulgent. It is a modern classic, ready to win the hearts of everyone at the table.

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