Introduction

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a quick and delightful treat combining tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with creamy whipped topping and rich caramel sauce. Perfect for a simple dessert that feels special without much effort.

The image shows several transparent cups filled with layered dessert on a white marbled surface. Each cup has four layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust, followed by a creamy, light beige cheese layer with swirls of pale yellow. Above that is a thick, glossy caramel layer in rich golden brown, topped with small yellow chunks of fruit and bits of a sticky, darker brown sauce. The layers are clear and neat, creating a visually appealing contrast of textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups peeled and chopped apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter
4 cups whipped cream
1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Layer the caramelized apples and whipped cream in dessert cups.
Step 6: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
Step 7: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and dessert to chill.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavor.
Swap whipped cream for vanilla yogurt for a lighter option.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for extra texture.

Storage

Store any leftover dessert cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, add the caramel drizzle just before serving if stored. Re-chill before serving if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows clear plastic cups filled with a dessert that has four visible layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust that looks soft and thick. Above that is a creamy, off-white cheesecake layer with small yellow fruit pieces embedded inside. The third layer is a smooth, glossy caramel sauce that covers the cheesecake evenly. On top, there are small, golden yellow apple chunks mixed with darker brown caramelized bits, adding texture and color contrast. All the cups are set on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?

While fresh apples are best for texture and flavor, you can use canned apples if pressed for time. Just drain them well and reduce the added sugar.

Can these dessert cups be made ahead?

Yes, assembling them a few hours ahead works well. Refrigerate to keep everything fresh and chill them before serving.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 102 reviews

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful layered treat featuring tender, caramelized apples combined with fluffy whipped cream and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. This no-bake dessert is perfect for a quick, comforting sweet finish to any meal.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 dessert cups 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Mixture

3 cups peeled and chopped apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter

Other Ingredients

4 cups whipped cream
1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

Prepare Apple Mixture: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and chopped apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
Cool the Apples: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the caramelized apples to cool slightly, ensuring they are warm but not hot before layering.
Assemble Dessert Cups: In individual dessert cups, layer the caramelized apples with whipped cream, alternating to create appealing layers.
Add Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top of each assembled dessert cup for added sweetness and flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and to serve them cool and refreshing.

Notes

You can use Granny Smith or Fuji apples for the best texture and flavor.
For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving.
If preferred, substitute store-bought whipped cream with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Ensure the caramel sauce is at room temperature for easy drizzling.
These dessert cups are best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Keywords: caramel apple dessert, apple cups, caramelized apples, easy dessert cups, no bake dessert