Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Tasty and Simple Treat

by
- 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced - 1/4 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 cup granola - 1 cup whipped cream - Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) - Fresh apple slices - Cinnamon for dusting - Medium-sized saucepan - Mixing bowls - Dessert cups To make the caramel apple dessert cups, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with two large apples. I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples add a nice tartness to balance the sweet caramel. Next, grab one cup of granulated sugar for the caramel. You'll also need half a cup of unsalted butter, which makes the caramel rich and smooth. Add a quarter cup of heavy cream for that creamy texture. Don't forget one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon for extra flavor. For the crunchy layer, use one cup of granola. This adds texture and a delightful crunch. To finish, you will need one cup of whipped cream and some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for garnish. You can also add optional garnishes. Fresh apple slices look great on top. A light dusting of cinnamon adds flavor and flair. With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress! 1. Start by placing 1 cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. 2. Heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir it gently and watch it melt. 3. Once it bubbles, keep stirring. You want to see a golden-brown color. 4. When it reaches that color, add 1/2 cup of diced butter. Stir until it melts. 5. Next, slowly pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until smooth. 6. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set it aside to cool slightly. 1. In a medium bowl, take 2 large diced apples. 2. Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples. 3. Mix gently to coat every piece with caramel. 1. For each dessert cup, layer the bottom with 2 tablespoons of granola. 2. Spoon the caramel-coated apple mixture over the granola layer. Spread it evenly. 3. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the apples. Use a spatula to smooth it out. 4. Drizzle more caramel sauce over the whipped cream for extra sweetness. 5. Finish by sprinkling some chopped nuts on top for crunch. These steps will help you create a delightful treat. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on this delicious dessert. To make great caramel, you must watch the temperature. The ideal range is between 320°F and 350°F. Use a candy thermometer for best results. Signs of perfect caramel include a rich, golden-brown color and a smooth texture. If it looks too dark or smells burnt, it’s likely ruined. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices, but you can try other apples too. Fuji apples add sweetness, while Braeburn apples combine sweet and tart flavors. For a softer texture, use Golden Delicious apples. They will break down a bit but taste great. These dessert cups shine at fall parties or holiday gatherings. They are a fun treat for family movie nights or casual dinners with friends. Pair these dessert cups with hot cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also go well with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat. {{image_4}} You can make your caramel apple dessert cups even more exciting. Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can give a warm twist. A pinch of nutmeg adds richness, while ginger adds a zing. You can also use flavored whipped cream. Try vanilla or caramel-flavored cream for an extra layer of taste. Some people need special diets, and that's okay! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free granola as your base. You can easily find this in stores now. If you want a vegan twist, substitute regular whipped cream with coconut whipped cream. It’s creamy and delicious, just like the original. Seasonal fruits can add a fresh take on this dessert. In fall, try adding ripe pears for a sweet change. They pair well with caramel and add a nice texture. You can slice them thin and layer them with the apples for a fun mix. This keeps your dessert interesting all year round! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To keep your caramel apple dessert cups fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other scents. These dessert cups will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. However, the granola may lose its crunch after one day. To keep it crispy, store granola separately and add it just before serving. You can freeze the dessert cups for later enjoyment. To freeze, assemble the cups without the whipped cream and granola. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. They can last about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. After thawing, top with whipped cream and granola for the best taste. To thicken your caramel sauce, you can cook it longer. This helps to reduce the liquid. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also add more sugar. Start with an extra tablespoon. Heat it until it dissolves fully. If you want to use cream, try adding less. This will make the sauce denser. Yes, you can prepare your dessert cups ahead of time. Assemble the cups without adding whipped cream. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. Add the whipped cream just before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy. You can also store the caramel sauce separately. It stays good for a week in the fridge. If you want to skip granola, try crushed cookies. Graham crackers work well too. You can also use puffed rice or nuts for a different crunch. Oats mixed with a bit of honey can be a great base. Just make sure whatever you choose is crunchy and adds texture. To add extra crunch, try sprinkling some chopped nuts. Pecans or walnuts are great choices. Add them on top of the whipped cream. You can also consider toasted coconut or crispy rice cereal. These will give your cups a nice texture contrast. For a fun twist, try adding popcorn for a surprising crunch. This blog post guides you through making delicious caramel apple dessert cups. We covered the key ingredients like apples, sugar, and whipped cream. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing the caramel and assembling the cups. You learned tips for perfecting your dessert and explored fun variations. Remember, these cups are perfect for sharing or celebrating. Enjoy making this treat, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors or toppings. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving something sweet and easy? Let’s whip up Caramel Apple Dessert Cups! These delightful treats combine crunchy apples, creamy caramel, and granola for a fun dessert you can enjoy anytime. This recipe is simple enough for kids to help, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Join me as I guide you through each tasty step to create a treat that’s sure to impress.

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced

– 1/4 cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 cup granola

– 1 cup whipped cream

– Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts)

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh apple slices

– Cinnamon for dusting

Equipment Needed

– Medium-sized saucepan

– Mixing bowls

– Dessert cups

To make the caramel apple dessert cups, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with two large apples. I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples add a nice tartness to balance the sweet caramel.

Next, grab one cup of granulated sugar for the caramel. You’ll also need half a cup of unsalted butter, which makes the caramel rich and smooth. Add a quarter cup of heavy cream for that creamy texture. Don’t forget one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

For the crunchy layer, use one cup of granola. This adds texture and a delightful crunch. To finish, you will need one cup of whipped cream and some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for garnish.

You can also add optional garnishes. Fresh apple slices look great on top. A light dusting of cinnamon adds flavor and flair.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Caramel Sauce

1. Start by placing 1 cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan.

2. Heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir it gently and watch it melt.

3. Once it bubbles, keep stirring. You want to see a golden-brown color.

4. When it reaches that color, add 1/2 cup of diced butter. Stir until it melts.

5. Next, slowly pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until smooth.

6. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set it aside to cool slightly.

Coating the Apples

1. In a medium bowl, take 2 large diced apples.

2. Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples.

3. Mix gently to coat every piece with caramel.

Assembling the Dessert Cups

1. For each dessert cup, layer the bottom with 2 tablespoons of granola.

2. Spoon the caramel-coated apple mixture over the granola layer. Spread it evenly.

3. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the apples. Use a spatula to smooth it out.

4. Drizzle more caramel sauce over the whipped cream for extra sweetness.

5. Finish by sprinkling some chopped nuts on top for crunch.

These steps will help you create a delightful treat. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on this delicious dessert.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Caramel Sauce

To make great caramel, you must watch the temperature. The ideal range is between 320°F and 350°F. Use a candy thermometer for best results.

Signs of perfect caramel include a rich, golden-brown color and a smooth texture. If it looks too dark or smells burnt, it’s likely ruined.

Apple Substitutions

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices, but you can try other apples too. Fuji apples add sweetness, while Braeburn apples combine sweet and tart flavors.

For a softer texture, use Golden Delicious apples. They will break down a bit but taste great.

Serving Suggestions

These dessert cups shine at fall parties or holiday gatherings. They are a fun treat for family movie nights or casual dinners with friends.

Pair these dessert cups with hot cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also go well with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can make your caramel apple dessert cups even more exciting. Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can give a warm twist. A pinch of nutmeg adds richness, while ginger adds a zing. You can also use flavored whipped cream. Try vanilla or caramel-flavored cream for an extra layer of taste.

Dietary Adjustments

Some people need special diets, and that’s okay! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free granola as your base. You can easily find this in stores now. If you want a vegan twist, substitute regular whipped cream with coconut whipped cream. It’s creamy and delicious, just like the original.

Seasonal Twists

Seasonal fruits can add a fresh take on this dessert. In fall, try adding ripe pears for a sweet change. They pair well with caramel and add a nice texture. You can slice them thin and layer them with the apples for a fun mix. This keeps your dessert interesting all year round!

For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Dessert Cups

To keep your caramel apple dessert cups fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other scents. These dessert cups will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. However, the granola may lose its crunch after one day. To keep it crispy, store granola separately and add it just before serving.

Freezing Options

You can freeze the dessert cups for later enjoyment. To freeze, assemble the cups without the whipped cream and granola. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. They can last about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. After thawing, top with whipped cream and granola for the best taste.

FAQs

How can I make the caramel sauce thicker?

To thicken your caramel sauce, you can cook it longer. This helps to reduce the liquid. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also add more sugar. Start with an extra tablespoon. Heat it until it dissolves fully. If you want to use cream, try adding less. This will make the sauce denser.

Can I prepare the dessert cups in advance?

Yes, you can prepare your dessert cups ahead of time. Assemble the cups without adding whipped cream. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. Add the whipped cream just before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy. You can also store the caramel sauce separately. It stays good for a week in the fridge.

What can I use instead of granola?

If you want to skip granola, try crushed cookies. Graham crackers work well too. You can also use puffed rice or nuts for a different crunch. Oats mixed with a bit of honey can be a great base. Just make sure whatever you choose is crunchy and adds texture.

How do I add more crunch to my dessert cups?

To add extra crunch, try sprinkling some chopped nuts. Pecans or walnuts are great choices. Add them on top of the whipped cream. You can also consider toasted coconut or crispy rice cereal. These will give your cups a nice texture contrast. For a fun twist, try adding popcorn for a surprising crunch.

This blog post guides you through making delicious caramel apple dessert cups. We covered the key ingredients like apples, sugar, and whipped cream. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing the caramel and assembling the cups. You learned tips for perfecting your dessert and explored fun variations. Remember, these cups are perfect for sharing or celebrating. Enjoy making this treat, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors or toppings. Happy cooking!

- 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced - 1/4 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 cup granola - 1 cup whipped cream - Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) - Fresh apple slices - Cinnamon for dusting - Medium-sized saucepan - Mixing bowls - Dessert cups To make the caramel apple dessert cups, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with two large apples. I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples add a nice tartness to balance the sweet caramel. Next, grab one cup of granulated sugar for the caramel. You'll also need half a cup of unsalted butter, which makes the caramel rich and smooth. Add a quarter cup of heavy cream for that creamy texture. Don't forget one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon for extra flavor. For the crunchy layer, use one cup of granola. This adds texture and a delightful crunch. To finish, you will need one cup of whipped cream and some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for garnish. You can also add optional garnishes. Fresh apple slices look great on top. A light dusting of cinnamon adds flavor and flair. With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress! 1. Start by placing 1 cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. 2. Heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir it gently and watch it melt. 3. Once it bubbles, keep stirring. You want to see a golden-brown color. 4. When it reaches that color, add 1/2 cup of diced butter. Stir until it melts. 5. Next, slowly pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until smooth. 6. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set it aside to cool slightly. 1. In a medium bowl, take 2 large diced apples. 2. Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples. 3. Mix gently to coat every piece with caramel. 1. For each dessert cup, layer the bottom with 2 tablespoons of granola. 2. Spoon the caramel-coated apple mixture over the granola layer. Spread it evenly. 3. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the apples. Use a spatula to smooth it out. 4. Drizzle more caramel sauce over the whipped cream for extra sweetness. 5. Finish by sprinkling some chopped nuts on top for crunch. These steps will help you create a delightful treat. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on this delicious dessert. To make great caramel, you must watch the temperature. The ideal range is between 320°F and 350°F. Use a candy thermometer for best results. Signs of perfect caramel include a rich, golden-brown color and a smooth texture. If it looks too dark or smells burnt, it’s likely ruined. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices, but you can try other apples too. Fuji apples add sweetness, while Braeburn apples combine sweet and tart flavors. For a softer texture, use Golden Delicious apples. They will break down a bit but taste great. These dessert cups shine at fall parties or holiday gatherings. They are a fun treat for family movie nights or casual dinners with friends. Pair these dessert cups with hot cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also go well with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat. {{image_4}} You can make your caramel apple dessert cups even more exciting. Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can give a warm twist. A pinch of nutmeg adds richness, while ginger adds a zing. You can also use flavored whipped cream. Try vanilla or caramel-flavored cream for an extra layer of taste. Some people need special diets, and that's okay! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free granola as your base. You can easily find this in stores now. If you want a vegan twist, substitute regular whipped cream with coconut whipped cream. It’s creamy and delicious, just like the original. Seasonal fruits can add a fresh take on this dessert. In fall, try adding ripe pears for a sweet change. They pair well with caramel and add a nice texture. You can slice them thin and layer them with the apples for a fun mix. This keeps your dessert interesting all year round! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To keep your caramel apple dessert cups fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other scents. These dessert cups will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. However, the granola may lose its crunch after one day. To keep it crispy, store granola separately and add it just before serving. You can freeze the dessert cups for later enjoyment. To freeze, assemble the cups without the whipped cream and granola. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. They can last about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. After thawing, top with whipped cream and granola for the best taste. To thicken your caramel sauce, you can cook it longer. This helps to reduce the liquid. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also add more sugar. Start with an extra tablespoon. Heat it until it dissolves fully. If you want to use cream, try adding less. This will make the sauce denser. Yes, you can prepare your dessert cups ahead of time. Assemble the cups without adding whipped cream. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. Add the whipped cream just before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy. You can also store the caramel sauce separately. It stays good for a week in the fridge. If you want to skip granola, try crushed cookies. Graham crackers work well too. You can also use puffed rice or nuts for a different crunch. Oats mixed with a bit of honey can be a great base. Just make sure whatever you choose is crunchy and adds texture. To add extra crunch, try sprinkling some chopped nuts. Pecans or walnuts are great choices. Add them on top of the whipped cream. You can also consider toasted coconut or crispy rice cereal. These will give your cups a nice texture contrast. For a fun twist, try adding popcorn for a surprising crunch. This blog post guides you through making delicious caramel apple dessert cups. We covered the key ingredients like apples, sugar, and whipped cream. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing the caramel and assembling the cups. You learned tips for perfecting your dessert and explored fun variations. Remember, these cups are perfect for sharing or celebrating. Enjoy making this treat, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors or toppings. Happy cooking!

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Indulge in these delicious Caramel Apple Dessert Cups, a perfect treat for any occasion! This easy recipe features diced apples coated in homemade caramel, layered with crunchy granola, and topped with fluffy whipped cream and nuts. Ready in just 30 minutes, these cups are sure to impress your family and friends. Click through to discover all the tips and step-by-step instructions to create these irresistible dessert cups that everyone will love!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced into small cubes

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced for easy melting

1/4 cup heavy cream, at room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup granola, your favorite or homemade

1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or freshly whipped)

Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) for a crunchy garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium-sized saucepan, add the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly as it begins to melt and bubble, watching for it to develop a rich golden-brown color. Avoid letting it burn.

    Combine Ingredients: Once the sugar is completely melted, carefully incorporate the diced butter, stirring until it is fully dissolved. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional minute until you achieve a smooth and glossy caramel. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Set aside to cool slightly.

      Coat the Apples: In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced apples with half of the prepared caramel sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.

        Assemble Dessert Cups: For each dessert cup, start by layering the bottom with 2 tablespoons of granola to create a crunchy foundation.

          Add Apples: Spoon a generous portion of the caramel-coated apple mixture over the layer of granola, spreading it evenly across the cup.

            Top with Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the apples, using a spatula or the back of a spoon for a smooth finish. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

              Final Touches: Finish by sprinkling chopped nuts over the whipped cream, adding a delightful crunch and enhancing the flavor profile.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Optional Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, place a thin slice of fresh apple or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of each dessert cup before serving. This adds a pop of color and elevates the overall appeal of your delicious creation.

                    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?