Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Introduction

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups deliver all the nostalgic flavors of a classic caramel apple in a convenient, bite-sized treat. With layers of tender cinnamon-spiced apples, silky caramel, and buttery crunch, these dessert cups make a satisfying finale to any meal or a standout treat at gatherings. Their elegant, single-serve presentation is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family nights in.

Why You’ll Love Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser thanks to the irresistible blend of gooey caramel and tart-sweet apples, hugged by a crunchy cookie or granola base. Unlike traditional caramel apples, these cups are less messy and far simpler to prepare—no candy thermometers or sticky dipping required. Each spoonful offers a harmonious mix of textures and fall-inspired flavor, making them perfect for anytime you crave comforting desserts.

Building Your Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

The base starts with crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies, layered for a delightful crunch. The apples, sautéed gently with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, become beautifully tender and fragrant. A drizzle of rich store-bought or homemade caramel sauce finishes each cup, adding buttery sweetness and a polished touch. Topped with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or granola, these cups truly shine.

Easy Assembly, Impressive Results

Layering is simple: start with your prepared crunchy base, spoon over the warm apple filling, and top with caramel. For special occasions, add a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Assemble up to a day ahead and chill; they taste just as delicious and give you extra time to enjoy your company!

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Serve your dessert cups in small glass jars, ramekins, or even sturdy cupcake liners for a festive look. Pair with a mug of cider or coffee for a perfectly cozy finish to any meal. For extra flair, add a pinch of flaky sea salt atop the caramel or scatter finely chopped toasted pecans for extra crunch.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields 6 individual dessert cups. Each cup contains approximately 250–300 calories, depending on your choice of caramel sauce and toppings. They’re just the right size for a sweet treat that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups (Recap)

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups pack all the flavor of a fairground treat into heavenly, spoonable portions. Their rich caramel, gently spiced apples, and crunchy base make them a memorable dessert that’s easy to love—and even easier to prepare.

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe to automatically generate an organized shopping list with all ingredients sorted by store section—perfect for efficient grocery trips and meal planning.

Instructions

1. Prepare the crunchy base: Divide the crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs evenly among six small cups or ramekins, pressing gently to form a loose bottom layer.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the apples are tender and juices have thickened slightly.
3. Spoon the warm apple mixture over each cup’s base, dividing evenly.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the apple layer (reserve extra for topping, if desired).
5. Top each dessert cup with toasted pecans or granola for texture, and a small pinch of sea salt if you like sweet-and-salty flavor.
6. Let cool slightly, then chill until ready to serve. Just before eating, add whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired, and finish with another drizzle of caramel.

Weekly Meal Planning

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are ideal for meal prep—simply assemble ahead and chill in the fridge for up to two days. Save and schedule this recipe with CookifyAI to generate smart, consolidated shopping lists and streamline your weekly dessert plans.

Planning Benefits:

– Effortlessly calculates total ingredient quantities for all your weekly desserts
– Organizes shopping lists by store aisle—less time in the grocery store, fewer missed ingredients
– Syncs ingredients across multiple recipes to prevent leftovers or duplicate purchases
– Makes meal planning and prep smoother, whether you’re serving just family or a crowd

Pro tip: Use CookifyAI to plan desserts alongside main meals—if you’re making anything with apples or caramel elsewhere in the week, your shopping list will update ingredient amounts so you’re not caught short or left with extra.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Enjoy all the festive flavors of caramel apple, made quick and easy in these delightful dessert cups—perfect for busy cooks and sweet tooths alike!