Description
Delightful Caramel Apple Dessert Cups bring classic comfort straight from grandmother’s kitchen, melding sweet autumn apples with rich caramel in perfectly portable pastry shells. Rich flavors and delicate textures invite you to savor each delectable bite of this irresistible seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 Granny Smith apples
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
Binding and Sweetening Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Spice and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Garnish:
- Extra caramel sauce
- Crushed graham crackers
- Apple slices
Instructions
- Craft a robust foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until thoroughly integrated. Carefully compact the mixture into serving cups, creating a firm, even base layer.
- Transform cream cheese into a silky mixture by whipping with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth. Gently incorporate whipped topping, folding delicately to maintain airy texture.
- Enhance diced apples with a splash of lemon juice and warm cinnamon, ensuring each piece is evenly seasoned. Generously coat apple pieces with caramel sauce, allowing each morsel to glisten with sweet richness.
- Layer the dessert cups strategically: first, spread the velvety cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker foundation. Next, distribute the caramel-infused apple mixture, creating delectable strata. Continue alternating layers, culminating with a luxurious cheesecake topping.
- Elevate the presentation by sprinkling crushed graham crackers or streusel across the surface for textural contrast. Artfully arrange fresh apple slices and cascade additional caramel sauce in an elegant drizzle. Chill for optimal flavor melding or serve immediately for maximum indulgence.
Notes
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid, compact base that holds together perfectly when serving.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a silky, lump-free cheesecake layer that spreads effortlessly.
- Pat diced apples dry after adding lemon juice to prevent excess moisture from making the dessert soggy and compromising texture.
- These dessert cups can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld and making party planning a breeze.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 247 kcal
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 123 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 39 mg