Embrace the flavors of fall with our Caramel Apple Dessert Cups, a delectable treat that combines tender spiced apples with rich caramel sauce, all layered in individual cups. Topped with a crunchy streusel, these dessert cups offer a portable and fun twist on classic caramel apples. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet indulgence, this recipe is both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Streusel Topping:
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Caramel Sauce:
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Assembly:
1 cup whipped cream
Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Streusel Topping:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Spread streusel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool.
Assemble the Dessert Cups:
In small dessert cups or jars, layer the cooked apple mixture at the bottom.
Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over the apples.
Sprinkle streusel topping over the caramel and apples.
Top with a dollop of whipped cream and drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired.
Serve:
Serve the caramel apple dessert cups immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serving Tips:
Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: These dessert cups can be served either chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. If serving chilled, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish each dessert cup with a small slice of apple or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon before serving. A drizzle of extra caramel sauce can also make them look even more enticing.
Pair with Beverages: These dessert cups pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, such as hot apple cider, coffee, or a glass of dessert wine, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Keep Whipped Cream Fresh: If you’re making these in advance, add the whipped cream just before serving to maintain its light and fluffy texture.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate for Freshness: Store the assembled dessert cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the dessert even more delicious over time.
Avoid Soggy Streusel: If you’re planning to store the dessert cups for more than a day, keep the streusel topping separate until just before serving. This will prevent it from becoming soggy. Simply add the streusel topping right before serving to keep it crunchy.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you need to store the dessert cups for a longer period, consider freezing the apple filling and streusel topping separately. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reassemble with fresh whipped cream.
Keep Caramel Sauce Separate: If you’re preparing these cups in advance, store the caramel sauce separately and drizzle it over the dessert cups just before serving to keep it fresh and gooey.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer, you can also make your own homemade caramel sauce for an extra touch of richness and flavor.
Can I make these dessert cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple filling and streusel topping in advance. Assemble the dessert cups and add the whipped cream just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and fluffy. For best results, store the assembled cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?
You can make the streusel topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to a week. If storing for longer periods, consider freezing it. Just re-crisp the streusel in a preheated oven before using to restore its crunchiness.
Can I substitute the apples with another fruit?
Yes, you can substitute the apples with other fruits like pears or peaches. Keep in mind that different fruits have different cooking times and may require adjustments in sugar and spices to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
Conclusion:
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of caramel apples in a fun and convenient form. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these dessert cups offer a perfect combination of spiced apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy streusel topping. Enjoy this easy and scrumptious recipe with family and friends!
📖 Recipe:
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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 dessert cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the flavors of fall with our Caramel Apple Dessert Cups, a delightful treat featuring tender spiced apples layered with rich caramel sauce and topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for a fun, portable dessert, these cups combine classic caramel apple flavors with a modern twist. Easy to make and ideal for gatherings, these dessert cups are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Streusel Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Caramel Sauce:
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Assembly:
1 cup whipped cream
Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the Streusel Topping:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add cold cubed butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Spread the streusel mixture on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown. Allow to cool.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups:
- Layer cooked apple mixture in small dessert cups or jars.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with streusel topping.
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
For optimal freshness, add whipped cream just before serving.
Keep the streusel topping separate if storing the dessert cups for more than a day to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 dessert cups
- Calories: 300 kcal
