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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are that go-to sweet treat when you want something cozy but do not have the time or patience for a big baking project. Each bite has the classic fall flavor of apples and caramel blended with fluffy whipped cream for a dessert that is simple yet crowd-pleasing.
I have whipped these up for friends on a whim with just a few ingredients already in my kitchen. I first made Caramel Apple Dessert Cups after apple picking with my family. Now they are a weekend favorite that makes weeknights special without a lot of prep.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Peeled and chopped apples: You want three cups of fresh apples The tart and crisp ones like Granny Smith balance the sweetness and hold up well during cooking Choose apples that are firm with smooth skin and no bruises for best flavor
- Brown sugar: Half a cup The deep molasses sweetness pairs perfectly with apples Opt for a fresh soft brown sugar to avoid hard clumps
- Ground cinnamon: Half a teaspoon This is what brings that warm fall spice to the mix Look for a fragrant cinnamon for bold flavor
- Butter: Just one tablespoon It adds richness to the apples as they cook Choose a high quality unsalted butter if you can
- Whipped cream: Four cups of light and airy whipped cream Freshly whipped is always best but store bought works in a pinch Make sure it is very cold for best texture
- Caramel sauce: Half a cup Pourable caramel sauce binds the whole dessert together Use a thick homemade caramel or your favorite store brand that is not gritty
How to Make It
- Melt the Butter:
- Place a skillet on medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely so the apples do not stick and get a luscious coating.
- Cook the Apples:
- Toss in the chopped apples right away along with the brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir frequently and let them gently bubble for about eight to ten minutes. You are looking for soft apples with a golden caramel ooze. If you want them softer just leave them on another minute or two. Make sure to scrape up anything sticking so it all mixes in.
- Cool the Mixture:
- After the apples turn glossy and syrupy remove the skillet from the heat. Let the apples cool for about five minutes so they do not melt your whipped cream during assembly.
- Layer Everything:
- Set out four dessert cups. Add a spoonful of caramelized apples to each then layer on whipped cream. Repeat another layer of apples and whipped cream until cups are full. This gives every bite a mix of cool cream and warm spiced apple.
- Add Caramel and Chill:
- Drizzle plenty of caramel sauce over the top of each cup for a glossy sweet finish. Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes so the layers settle and the flavors meld.
I secretly love the moment when the caramel starts to drip down the sides in the fridge. The apples soak up the brown sugar and become saucy which always brings back memories of cozy autumn nights with my siblings scraping the last bits from our cups.
Flavor Boosters
Granny Smith apples are my usual choice but Honeycrisp or Fuji also offer great crunch and flavor. If you are out of whipped cream a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even plain Greek yogurt gives a fun twist. You can swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper caramel note.
Serving Suggestions
Dress these up for parties with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a scattering of chopped toasted pecans. For a birthday treat a few mini chocolate chips on top are never a bad idea. I sometimes serve these over pound cake for a quick trifle effect.
Creative Twists
In early fall try adding a handful of chopped pears with the apples for a mellow sweetness. For a holiday spin blend in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the caramelized apples. Summer versions are just as lovely with peaches or nectarines swapped for apples.
I learned the hard way to let the apple mixture cool enough before layering or you will end up with soupy cups. That slow patience pays off with perfect dessert layers every single time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best for this dessert?
Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a balanced sweetness and firm texture, making them ideal for caramelizing.
- → Can I substitute the whipped cream?
Yes, vanilla ice cream can be used instead of whipped cream for a richer and colder treat.
- → How do I prevent apples from becoming mushy?
Cook apples just until tender, stirring gently. Avoid overcooking to retain their shape and slight bite.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?
Refrigerating helps meld the flavors and ensures the layers set, creating a pleasant contrast in textures.
- → Can additional toppings be added?
Absolutely! Try chopped nuts, extra caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and crunch.