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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Buttery graham crumb cups layered with cinnamon‑kissed apples and warm caramel, finished with a cloud of whipped cream. A cozy, crowd‑pleasing fall treat made fast.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted for the crumb base
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar, packed for the crumb base
  • 0.125 tsp fine salt for the crumb base
  • 1.5 lb apples, peeled and diced use a crisp variety
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter for sautéing apples
  • 0.33 cup packed brown sugar for the apples
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.125 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.125 tsp fine salt for the apples
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 0.75 cup thick caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cup whipped cream
  • 0.33 cup chopped pecans optional, for crunch

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Peel, core, and dice the apples into 1/2-inch pieces.
  • Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt; cook until tender, 8–10 minutes.
  • Stir in lemon juice and vanilla; remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes.
  • Combine graham crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt until evenly moistened.
  • Toast the crumb mixture in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring, 3–4 minutes; cool briefly.
  • Warm the caramel sauce until pourable in a microwave or small saucepan.
  • Spoon a layer of crumbs into serving cups and press lightly.
  • Divide the warm apples among cups and drizzle with caramel.
  • Top with whipped cream and pecans, then serve right away or chill 10 minutes.

Notes

For a fun twist, swap pecans with crushed pretzels for salty crunch, or stir a pinch of cardamom into the apples. To make ahead, refrigerate crumb mixture, apple filling, and caramel separately up to 2 days; rewarm apples and caramel, then assemble just before serving.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Caramel Apple Dessert Cups flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.