CARAMEL APPLE DESSERT CUPS
These caramel apple dessert cups are sweet, creamy, and full of warm apple-cinnamon flavor. With buttery graham layers, silky caramel, and tender apples, they make an easy, impressive treat perfect for parties, fall gatherings, or quick make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Crust Layer:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel:
- ½ cup thick caramel sauce
Instructions
Make the Apple Layer:
- Cook apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until soft and caramelized. Cool slightly.
Make the Crust:
- Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press a spoonful into each cup.
Make the Cream Layer:
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
Assemble:
- Layer graham crust, cream mixture, warm apples, and drizzle with caramel. Repeat layers if using larger cups.
Serve:
- Chill 20 minutes or serve immediately.
Notes
- Make Ahead:
Prepare up to 24 hours ahead; assemble just before serving. - Texture Boost:
Add toasted pecans or granola for crunch. - Caramel Tip:
Warm caramel slightly for easy drizzling. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve in mini cups for parties or layer in jars for gifting. - Storage:
Refrigerate up to 3 days; do not freeze.