Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

  • ½ cup powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Base Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, Biscoff cookies, or vanilla wafers)

  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, if you like it sweeter)

For Garnish & Drizzle:

  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • Whipped cream (optional)

  • Extra crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs

  • Small apple slices or caramel candies for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter.

  2. Once melted, add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

  3. Stir and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until apples soften slightly and develop a caramelized glaze.

  4. Remove from heat and let cool.

Tip: You don’t want the apples too mushy—aim for tender but still holding their shape.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Cream Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

  2. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

  3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust Base

  1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter (and sugar, if using).

  2. Mix until the texture resembles damp sand.

  3. Set aside for layering.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups

  1. Start with a spoonful (about 2 tablespoons) of the crumb mixture at the bottom of each dessert cup. Press down slightly.

  2. Add a layer of cheesecake filling.

  3. Spoon a layer of caramelized apples on top.

  4. Drizzle with caramel sauce.

  5. Repeat the layers if your cups are large enough, finishing with apples and caramel on top.