Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

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🍏 Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of apples, the sweetness of caramel, and the richness of buttery crumble layers. This dessert pays homage to the traditional caramel apple found at autumn fairs, but it’s transformed into a layered, spoonable indulgence perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights in. Its bite-sized presentation in cups makes it not only visually appealing but also easy to serve and enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and balance sweetness)

For the Crumble Layer:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, crushed)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cream Layer:

  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

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

Step 2: Make the Crumble

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar.
  2. Stir until combined and resembles wet sand.
  3. Set aside.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  2. Keep refrigerated until use.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat without stirring (swirl pan gently until melted and golden).
  2. Add butter and whisk until combined.
  3. Slowly add cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
  4. Add a pinch of salt and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble Dessert Cups

  1. In small glass cups, start with a layer of crumble.
  2. Add a spoonful of caramelized apples.
  3. Top with whipped cream.
  4. Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
  5. Repeat layers if desired and finish with a final caramel drizzle.

History

Caramel apples originated in the 1950s in the United States, when a Kraft Foods employee accidentally dipped apples into melted caramel from leftover Halloween candy experiments. Since then, caramel apples became a staple fall treat. This recipe takes inspiration from that tradition but transforms it into an elegant, layered dessert cup for easier serving and year-round enjoyment.

Benefits

  • Apples are high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
  • Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and adds warmth.
  • Whipped cream & caramel provide energy and indulgence, making it a mood-lifting treat.
  • Portion control: Served in cups, making it easier to enjoy without overindulging.

Formation (Presentation)

Serve in clear glass cups or mini dessert jars so the layers of crumble, apple filling, cream, and caramel are visible. Garnish with:

  • A slice of fresh apple
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon
  • A drizzle of extra caramel sauce

Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 1 cup)

  • Calories: ~310 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 28 g

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a modern twist on a beloved classic. They are easy to prepare, visually stunning, and pack all the flavors of fall into one indulgent bite. Whether served at a holiday dinner, a cozy night by the fireplace, or as a surprise treat for loved ones, this dessert guarantees smiles and sweet memories.

Lovers of This Dessert

  • Apple lovers who appreciate sweet-tart flavors.
  • Caramel enthusiasts who can’t resist its golden richness.
  • Family gatherings where kids and adults both enjoy layered treats.
  • Romantics who want a dessert that feels cozy, nostalgic, and elegant all at once.

Would you like me to also expand this into a bigger “storybook-style” recipe write-up (almost like a food magazine feature) with storytelling woven in, or keep it more structured like above?

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