If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat that tastes like autumn captured in a cup, this Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, tender apples cooked with warm spices, nestled under a buttery, crumbly streusel, and drizzled with luscious caramel create a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. Perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests, these dessert cups combine simple ingredients into something truly magical and irresistibly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient for this Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the softness of the cooked apples enhanced by cinnamon and nutmeg to the crisp, golden streusel topping, these basics come together effortlessly to create a showstopper dessert.
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced: The star fruit that provides natural sweetness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the apples beautifully.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples just right without overpowering spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, spicy flavor we all associate with apple desserts.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and complexity to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances sweetness and preserves the apple’s color.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Base for a crumbly, tender streusel topping.
- 1/4 cup rolled oats: Provides a wonderful texture contrast in the streusel.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moist sweetness and that rich caramel undertone to the streusel.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Enhances the streusel’s flavor with a hint of spice.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates the perfect crumbly texture when mixed into the streusel.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade): This sticky, sweet drizzle ties all flavors together marvelously.
- 1 cup whipped cream: The light, airy finishing touch that balances the richness.
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional): For those extra indulgent moments.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once bubbly and fragrant, toss in your diced apples along with the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir gently and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the apples become tender and start to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness. This flavorful filling is the heart of your dessert, so take your time to let those spices infuse perfectly before removing it from the heat to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
While the apples are cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend everything until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Spread this mixture on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the streusel turns a beautiful golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool completely—this crunchy topping will add irresistible texture to your dessert cups.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert Cups
Grab small dessert cups or jars to start layering this gem. Begin by spooning a generous amount of the warm apple filling into the bottom. Drizzle with the luscious caramel sauce to add sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples. Then, sprinkle a hearty layer of the cooled streusel topping for that buttery crunch. Crown your creation with a dollop of light whipped cream and a final drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent. These layers of flavor come together so beautifully in every spoonful.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe experience, try sprinkling a pinch of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the whipped cream. A light dusting of cinnamon or a small mint leaf can add visual appeal and a hint of freshness. These simple garnishes introduce another layer of flavor and make your dessert cups look utterly irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on the side for those extra-special occasions. If you want to keep it light, a fresh fruit salad or a simple cup of hot tea balances the sweetness and rounds out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the basic dessert cup! Serve these layered delights in clear mason jars for a rustic touch, or elegant glass parfait dishes if you want to impress guests. You can also create mini versions in shot glasses for bite-sized treats at parties, making the Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe versatile and fun for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caramel Apple Dessert Cups can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to keep the whipped cream separate until serving to maintain its fluffiness, or add it fresh each time you serve a cup.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the apple filling and streusel components separately in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling your dessert cups to enjoy that freshly made taste anytime you crave it.
Reheating
If you want a warm dessert, gently reheat the apple filling in a microwave or on the stovetop until just heated through. Then assemble with fresh streusel and whipped cream for a delightful comfort treat, especially on chilly evenings.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully because they hold their shape and provide that perfect sweet-tart balance.
Is it okay to use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce saves time and tastes delicious, but homemade caramel can add a special touch if you have the time to make it.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and use coconut whipped cream or another non-dairy topping. Just double-check your caramel sauce to ensure it’s dairy-free.
How long does it take to prepare this dessert?
From start to finish, plan for about 40 minutes, including cooking the apples, preparing the streusel, and assembling your dessert cups.
Can I prepare these dessert cups ahead of a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and streusel in advance, refrigerate them separately, and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about homemade desserts that bring people together, and this Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe does exactly that. It’s simple to make yet feels incredibly special, with every bite bursting with cozy flavors and textures. Whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy weekend or dazzling friends, this recipe deserves a spot on your go-to list. Give it a try and let the warm caramel and spiced apple magic brighten your day.
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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delightful Caramel Apple Dessert Cups recipe featuring tender, caramelized apples layered with a warm, crunchy streusel topping and finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and whipped cream. Perfect for a cozy fall treat.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Assembly and Garnish
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled, cored, and diced apples along with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Make the Streusel Topping: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Bake Streusel: Spread the streusel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Remove from oven and allow the streusel to cool completely.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups: Spoon the cooked apple mixture evenly into small dessert cups or jars. Drizzle each with caramel sauce. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of the cooled streusel topping over the apples.
- Add Whipped Cream and Serve: Top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream. If desired, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the whipped cream for extra indulgence. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the cups until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tang.
- The caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade for a richer flavor.
- Streusel topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives.
- These dessert cups are perfect for individual servings and make great party treats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
