Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

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🍎✨ Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe ✨🍎

Introduction

Caramel and apples have been best friends for centuries, creating one of the most beloved dessert pairings of all time. From caramel-dipped apples at fairs to warm caramel apple pies on chilly nights, this duo never fails to bring joy. Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a modern twist on the classic, served in elegant single portions that are perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or even a cozy night in. Sweet, buttery caramel melds beautifully with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, layered into a cup for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 medium apples (Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp or Gala for sweetness), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into cubes)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (warm)
  • A pinch of sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

For the Dessert Cups Assembly:

  • 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Crushed nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)
  • Extra caramel drizzle

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and caramelize slightly.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until it melts into a golden amber liquid.
  2. Add butter and whisk until fully combined. Be careful—it will bubble.
  3. Slowly pour in warm cream while whisking continuously.
  4. Cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Add a pinch of sea salt if desired.
  5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust Base

  1. Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand.
  2. Press 2–3 tablespoons into the bottom of each serving cup to form the base.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups

  1. Layer graham cracker crust at the bottom of cups.
  2. Add a spoonful of apple filling.
  3. Drizzle caramel sauce generously.
  4. Repeat layering if using taller cups.
  5. Top with whipped cream, extra caramel drizzle, and crushed nuts.

History

The concept of pairing apples and caramel dates back to the early 1900s when caramel candies became popular in America. In 1950, Kraft Foods accidentally created the famous “caramel apple” when an employee experimented with melting leftover Halloween caramels. Since then, caramel apples have been iconic fall treats. These dessert cups modernize that classic combination, transforming it into a layered delicacy.

Benefits

  • Nutritional: Apples provide dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
  • Emotional: The nostalgic flavor combo brings warmth, comfort, and joy.
  • Practical: Easy to serve in cups—no slicing or plating required!
  • Festive: Perfect for holidays, parties, or seasonal celebrations.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve in clear glass cups to show off the beautiful layers.
  • Use mason jars for a rustic look.
  • Mini shot glasses for party-friendly, bite-sized desserts.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. for 1 cup)

  • Calories: 320–380
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 34 g

(Values vary depending on toppings and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups capture the essence of autumn in every bite—sweet, buttery, spiced, and indulgent. They’re easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and versatile for any occasion.

Lovers of This Recipe ❤️

  • Apple pie lovers → will adore the familiar flavor.
  • Caramel enthusiasts → can drizzle extra sauce to their heart’s content.
  • Kids → love the fun, layered presentation.
  • Couples → perfect romantic sharable treat.
  • Families → everyone can customize their own cup!

Would you like me to also expand this into a festive version (like Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups with a cream cheese layer) for an even richer dessert?

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