Caramel Apple Dessert Cups (Print Version)
Caramelized apples, silky cheesecake cream, and buttery crumb layers combine in every decadent bite.
# Ingredients:
→ Apple Layer
01 -
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
02 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 -
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 -
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
06 -
1 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Creamy Cheesecake Filling
07 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 -
1 cup heavy whipping cream
09 -
1/2 cup powdered sugar
10 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Base Layer
11 -
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
12 -
4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
13 -
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
→ Garnish and Drizzle
14 -
1/2 cup caramel sauce
15 -
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
16 -
Extra crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs
17 -
Small apple slices or caramel candies, for decoration
# Steps:
01 -
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until apples are tender and coated in a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
02 -
Whip the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl until stiff peaks form; set aside. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream, combining until the mixture is fluffy and uniform.
03 -
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar (if desired) in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the texture resembles damp sand.
04 -
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the base of each cup and press gently. Add a layer of cheesecake filling followed by a layer of caramelized apples. Drizzle with caramel sauce. Repeat layers if cups are large, finishing with apples and caramel on top.
05 -
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra graham crumbs or cookie crumbles, and garnish with an apple slice or caramel candy. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving for best consistency.
# Notes:
01 -
For optimal texture, avoid overcooking apples; they should remain tender and retain shape.