Fall flavors never tasted so sweet! These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a cozy, easy-to-make treat that combines tender apples, rich caramel, and creamy whipped layers in a perfect individual serving. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or craving a comforting dessert, these cups are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cups whipped cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook while stirring occasionally until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow the apples to cool slightly.
- In dessert cups, layer the caramelized apples and whipped cream alternately.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of caramel.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Substitute whipped cream with vanilla ice cream for a creamy twist.
- Chill desserts before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Individual servings: Perfect for parties or solo indulgence.
- Flavorful fall combination: Sweet caramel + tart apples + creamy layers.
- Minimal ingredients: No complicated techniques needed.
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Substitutions & Variations
- Caramel: Use salted caramel for a sweet-salty flavor.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or fresh apple slices for garnish.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice work beautifully for seasonal flair.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 20–30 seconds to warm up the apples before serving.
- Tip: Add fresh whipped cream or caramel after reheating to maintain texture.
Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold dessert.
- Sprinkle sea salt over caramel for a gourmet touch.
- Pair with coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider for a cozy fall afternoon.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice for a festive look.
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 38 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid.
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Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Substitute butter with coconut oil, whipped cream with coconut cream, and use vegan caramel sauce.
Q: How do I prevent apples from turning brown?
A: Toss the chopped apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice before cooking.
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These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the ultimate fall dessert—sweet, cozy, and easy to make. They’re perfect for entertaining, seasonal gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a comforting indulgence.
Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 cups whipped cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook while stirring occasionally until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow the apples to cool slightly.
- In dessert cups, layer the caramelized apples and whipped cream alternately.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
- Vanilla ice cream can replace whipped cream for a creamy texture.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Store in the fridge and serve chilled or slightly warmed.
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