Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Caramel Apple Dessert Cups! These charming little treats combine the sweetness of caramel with the crispness of apples, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. They are not only simple to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Whether you need a quick treat for a busy weeknight or a show-stopping dessert for guests, these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are sure to impress.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 100mg

Why Make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The crisp apples provide a refreshing crunch, while the gooey caramel brings a rich sweetness that complements each bite. They are also an excellent way to sneak in some fruit, making them a slightly healthier indulgence. Plus, these dessert cups can easily be adapted with different toppings or ingredients, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Step by Step

Ingredients

4 large apples, peeled and cored
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1 cup granola or crushed graham crackers
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the granola or crushed graham crackers with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Slice the peeled and cored apples into thin rings.
4. Lightly grease small dessert cups or ramekins. Place a layer of apple slices on the bottom of each cup.
5. Sprinkle a layer of the granola mixture over the apple slices.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the granola layer.
7. Repeat layers until cups are filled, ending with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
8. Place dessert cups on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes or until apples are tender and caramel is bubbly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
10. Top each cup with a dollop of whipped heavy cream and a light drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups can be enjoyed as they are or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy touch. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple green salad on the side. A sprinkling of chopped nuts can also elevate the crunch factor, enhancing both flavor and texture.

How to Store Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

If you have leftovers, you can store the Caramel Apple Dessert Cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing the assembled cups before baking. Just be sure to bake them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Expert Tips for Cooking Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
• If you like a little extra flavor, add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the granola mixture.
• For a lower-calorie dessert, swap heavy cream with a light whipped topping.
• Experiment with different nut varieties in the granola for unique flavors.
• Make it festive by adding holiday spices like nutmeg or clove during fall.

Delicious Variations of Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• For a spiced version, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel for a sweet-heat twist.
• Incorporate citrus by mixing orange or lemon zest into the apple slices for a bright kick.
• Create a vegetarian delight by swapping traditional caramel sauce with date syrup or maple syrup for a more wholesome sweetener.

With their delicious flavor, ease of preparation, and impressive appearance, you’ll want to make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups your go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy nights in. Try making these delightful treats today and treat yourself and your loved ones!

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Delight in the flavors of crisp apples and gooey caramel, all served in charming dessert cups. Perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the filling and layers

• 4 large large apples, peeled and cored Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup granola or crushed graham crackers For added crunch
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped Can substitute with light whipped topping for a lower-calorie option
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the granola or crushed graham crackers with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Slice the peeled and cored apples into thin rings.
4. Lightly grease small dessert cups or ramekins. Place a layer of apple slices on the bottom of each cup.
5. Sprinkle a layer of the granola mixture over the apple slices.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the granola layer.
7. Repeat layers until cups are filled, ending with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Baking

1. Place dessert cups on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes or until apples are tender and caramel is bubbly.
2. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Serving

1. Top each cup with a dollop of whipped heavy cream and a light drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature. For advance preparation, freeze assembled cups before baking, adjusting the baking time as needed.