When fall flavors call your name, nothing answers quite like Caramel Apple Dessert Cups. They’ve got that perfect mix of crisp apples, velvety cream cheese filling, and buttery caramel sauce all layered into one portable, party-ready treat. And here’s the kicker—you don’t need to be a pro baker to make them shine. These dessert cups are simple enough for beginners, yet elegant enough to impress guests.
Whether you’re pulling them together for a family dinner, a fall festival, or just a sweet craving at home, this recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
A Perfectly Portable Dessert
Unlike pies or cakes that need slicing, Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are served individually. That means less mess and more fun—everyone gets their own share without waiting.
Sweet Meets Tart
The magic here lies in the balance. Tart apples contrast with sweet caramel, while a creamy base rounds everything out. It’s like eating a caramel apple, but far easier on your teeth.
Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups combine buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon apples, and a drizzle of caramel sauce—an easy, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for fall gatherings or weeknight cravings.
Ingredients
Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons sugar
5 tablespoons melted butter
Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
Apple Topping:
2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for sweeter apples)
1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Garnish:
Extra whipped cream
Crushed graham crackers
Flaky sea salt
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of serving cups. Chill for 10 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping until fluffy. Spoon the mixture over the crust layer.
3. Dice apples and toss with lemon juice. Cook lightly in a skillet with cinnamon (and sugar if desired) for 3–4 minutes until just softened. Allow to cool.
4. Spoon apples over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle caramel sauce generously on top.
5. Garnish with whipped cream, extra graham crumbs, or flaky sea salt if desired. Serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients for Perfect Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Core Ingredients for the Crust
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Sugar
This buttery base gives a light crunch and holds the layers beautifully.
Creamy Filling Essentials
- Cream cheese
- Whipped topping (or heavy cream)
- Vanilla extract
Together, they form the silky middle layer that pairs perfectly with caramel and apples.
Apple-Caramel Topping
- Fresh diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
If you love warm fall flavors, you’ll also enjoy these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies that pair perfectly with caramel apple treats.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Step 1: Build the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of your serving cups. Chill for 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Whip cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping for that fluffy, creamy texture. Spoon this layer over the crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping
Dice apples and toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Cook lightly with cinnamon in a skillet until just softened. Let them cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups
Layer the cooked apples over the cream filling, drizzle generously with caramel sauce, and add a touch of whipped cream or extra graham crumbs on top.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
Choosing the Right Apples
Granny Smith apples keep their bite and add tartness. For a sweeter taste, go with Fuji or Gala. Mixing two types gives more depth.
Caramel Choices
Store-bought caramel sauce works fine, but a quick homemade caramel really elevates these cups.
Presentation Ideas
Use clear glass cups or mini mason jars to show off the layers—it makes them look extra fancy with minimal effort.
For a cozy dessert spread, try serving these cups alongside a warm tea — our guide on Tea and Cookies Pairing has some great ideas.
Variations of Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Mini Kids’ Version
Skip the cream cheese and use vanilla pudding for a lighter, kid-friendly option.
Salted Caramel Apple Cups
Add a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel for that sweet-and-salty bite.
Fall Spice Cups
Mix pumpkin spice into the cream cheese filling to lean into autumn flavors.
Conclusion
A Sweet Finale
When you need a dessert that’s easy, eye-catching, and absolutely delicious, Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the answer. They bring together crunchy graham cracker layers, creamy filling, sweet-tart apples, and a rich caramel drizzle. The best part? You can make them ahead of time, serve them in individual cups, and customize them for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive party.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to fuss with a full pie or cake, these cups deliver big flavor in the simplest way. One bite, and you’ll see why readers rave about them again and again.
Our readers can’t get enough of cozy fall flavors! For another fan-favorite, check out the Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe — it’s moist, rich, and has quickly become one of the most popular treats on the site.
FAQs
Yes! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated and add toppings like whipped cream or extra caramel right before serving for the freshest look and taste.
Granny Smith is the top pick if you like a tart contrast to the sweet caramel. Honeycrisp or Fuji add more sweetness and a juicy crunch. For variety, try mixing two apple types.
Absolutely. A high-quality store-bought caramel sauce saves time and still tastes fantastic. If you want more control over sweetness and consistency, homemade is worth the effort.
Swap the cream cheese layer with Greek yogurt, use less sugar in the crust, and drizzle a light caramel sauce or even a date-based caramel. The cups will still taste indulgent but with a lighter touch.
It’s not recommended since the apples and cream cheese layer don’t hold up well after thawing. For best results, store in the fridge and enjoy within 2–3 days.