🍏 Caramel Apple Dessert Cups 🍮
When fall arrives and apples are at their peak, there’s no better way to celebrate than with Caramel Apple Dessert Cups. This simple, no-bake recipe combines caramelized apples, creamy cheesecake filling, and buttery graham cracker crumbs for a dessert that’s light, decadent, and irresistibly comforting. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these layered cups deliver all the flavor of caramel apples with none of the mess. 🍯🍎
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍏 Sweet-tart apples caramelized to perfection.
- 🍮 Creamy cheesecake filling that’s light yet indulgent.
- 🥄 Served in cups for portion control and easy presentation.
- ⏱️ No baking required—ready in under 30 minutes!
- 🎉 Perfect for fall parties, Thanksgiving, or a weeknight treat.
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🧂 Ingredients
For the Apple Layer:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Layers & Garnish:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (or Biscoff cookies)
- ¼ cup melted butter (to bind crumbs if desired)
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Extra diced apples or pecans for topping
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Caramel Apple Layer
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 6–8 minutes until apples soften and caramelize. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a fluffy, mousse-like texture.
3. Prepare the Crust Base
Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter (optional). Press lightly into the bottom of serving cups to form a crust base.
4. Assemble the Dessert Cups
In small dessert cups or jars, layer graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and caramelized apples. Repeat if cups are tall enough. Finish with apples on top.
5. Garnish & Chill
Drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with pecans, or add a dollop of whipped cream. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
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Chef Tips & Expert Insights
Chef Bobby Flay: “A pinch of sea salt on top of caramel balances the sweetness beautifully—don’t skip it!”
Ina Garten: “Use tart apples like Granny Smith if you want the dessert to avoid becoming overly sweet.”
Gordon Ramsay: “Presentation is everything—serve these in glass cups or jars so your guests can see the layers. Stunning and appetizing.”
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Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Key Nutrients | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apples | 4 medium | 320 | Fiber, vitamin C | Supports digestion & immunity |
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz | 800 | Calcium, protein | Bone & muscle support |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | 820 | Fats, vitamin A | Energy & cell repair |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tbsp | 100 | Carbohydrates | Quick energy |
| Graham Crackers | 1 ½ cups | 640 | Carbs, iron | Provides structure & crunch |
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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- ❄️ Store covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
- 🚫 Not freezer-friendly (apples lose texture).
- ⏱️ Make apple mixture a day ahead and refrigerate; assemble before serving.
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10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use canned apple pie filling? Yes, but fresh caramelized apples taste fresher and less processed.
- Can I make this in a large trifle bowl? Absolutely! Just layer in a glass dish instead of cups.
- Can I swap cream cheese? Use mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- How do I keep apples from browning? Lemon juice prevents oxidation and adds brightness.
- Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, substitute coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Can I add nuts? Yes, pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor.
- What caramel sauce works best? Homemade or store-bought thick caramel works well.
- How many servings does this make? About 6–8 dessert cups.
- Can I make it less sweet? Reduce sugar or use lightly sweetened whipped cream.
- Best time to serve? Perfect for fall holidays, Thanksgiving, or after a cozy family dinner.
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More Dessert Inspiration
Love this recipe? Try these from Fresh Toner Hungar:
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Final Thoughts
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the ultimate fall indulgence—combining sweet, spiced apples with fluffy cheesecake filling in a no-bake format that’s both elegant and easy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a comforting dessert for yourself, these cups are guaranteed to impress. ✨
👉 Stay connected with Fresh Toner Hungar for more indulgent no-bake dessert ideas that bring comfort and joy to your table! 💛
