Irresistible Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe for Sweet Moments

Sweet autumn memories flood back with these delightful caramel apple dessert cups that capture crisp orchard moments.

Nostalgia mingles with delectable flavors in each carefully crafted bite.

Crisp pastry shells cradle smooth caramel and tender apple chunks.

Seasonal ingredients dance together, creating a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes.

Warm spices whisper hints of cinnamon and nutmeg throughout the dessert.

Elegant yet simple, these cups bring joy to any gathering.

You’ll savor every spoonful of this irresistible treat that celebrates fall’s delicious bounty.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Breakdown

• Create Stunning Dessert Cups: Transform simple ingredients into an impressive treat that looks like it came from a fancy bakery.
• Customize with Ease: Switch up the recipe by using different fruit or adding nuts for extra crunch and personal flair.
• Perfect for Gathering Crowds: Delightful individual desserts that work brilliantly for dinner parties, family celebrations, or potluck events.
• Quick Baking Adventure: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home cooks.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• Puff Pastry or Pie Crust: A light and flaky foundation that creates a crisp shell for the dessert.

• Apples: Sweet and tender fruit that brings a classic autumn flavor to the dessert.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the apple mixture.
• Brown Sugar: Provides deep sweetness and helps create a rich caramel coating.
• Cinnamon: Warm spice that enhances the apple's natural sweetness.

• Caramel Sauce: A sweet, golden syrup that adds decadent flavor and glossy finish.
• Whipped Cream: Optional light and airy topping that adds creamy contrast to the warm dessert.

Stepwise Guide for Caramel Apple Cups

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some delicious baking magic.

Step 2: Shape The Pastry

Gently roll out your puff pastry or pie crust and cut it into perfect circles that will snugly fit into your dessert cups.

Use a cookie cutter or a glass to help you create uniform shapes.

Step 3: Bake The Pastry Shells

Carefully press the pastry circles into your dessert cups, making sure they sit smoothly.

Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 4: Create Caramel Apple Filling

• Diced apples
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon

Sauté these ingredients together, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and tender with a rich, caramelized coating.

Step 5: Assemble Dessert Cups

Spoon the warm, caramel-coated apple mixture into your freshly baked pastry shells. Drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Serve these delectable dessert cups while they’re still warm. For an extra special treat, add a dollop of whipped cream on top if you’d like.

Tips for Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• Swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version that maintains rich flavor and smooth texture.
• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best baking results and balanced sweetness.
• Prepare pastry cups ahead of time and store in airtight container to save prep time during dessert making.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch and nutty depth to the caramel apple filling.
• Check pastry edges while baking to prevent burning and ensure even golden-brown coloration.

Flavor Variations on Caramel Apple Cups

• Gluten-Free Alternative: Replace traditional puff pastry with gluten-free pie crust or almond flour pastry for celiac-friendly dessert cups.
• Vegan Variation: Swap butter with coconut oil, use plant-based caramel sauce, and top with dairy-free whipped coconut cream for a completely vegan version.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free caramel sauce to reduce overall sugar content.
• Nutty Crunch Upgrade: Sprinkle toasted pecans or sliced almonds over the caramel apple filling for added texture and depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• Sweet Brunch Delight: Serve these delectable cups alongside a light breakfast spread with fresh yogurt and granola for a morning treat that feels indulgent yet balanced.
• Dessert Party Centerpiece: Create an elegant dessert table display by arranging the apple cups on a beautiful wooden board with scattered cinnamon sticks and mint leaves for visual appeal.
• Seasonal Gathering Favorite: Pair these warm caramel apple cups with vanilla ice cream during autumn gatherings, offering guests a comforting and nostalgic dessert experience that celebrates seasonal flavors.
• Gourmet Gift Option: Package individual cups in clear gift boxes with a ribbon, making them a charming homemade present for friends and family who love rustic, sweet treats.

Storing Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

• Store leftover caramel apple dessert cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain pastry crispness.
• Avoid storing whipped cream with the dessert to prevent soggy texture.
• Wrap individual cups tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to preserve freshness.

FAQs

• What type of apples work best for this recipe?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape and provide a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness when cooked.

• Can I make the pastry cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the pastry cups earlier in the day and store them at room temperature. Just reheat briefly before filling with the caramel apples.

• Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The sweet caramel and soft apples make this a delightful treat that children will love. The bite-sized cups are perfect for small hands.

• Do I need any special baking tools?

You’ll just need a muffin tin or small dessert cups, a saucepan, and basic baking tools like a rolling pin and knife to create these delicious caramel apple cups.

Perfect Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Scrumptious caramel apple dessert cups deliver pure autumn bliss in handheld pastry shells. Crisp apple chunks nestled with smooth caramel create an irresistible seasonal treat you’ll savor with delight.

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Ingredients

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Fruits and Main Ingredients:

• 4 fresh apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
• 1 sheet puff pastry or pie crust

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) cinnamon

Dairy and Extras:

• 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter
• 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375F (190C) to prepare for pastry baking.
2. Using a rolling pin, flatten the puff pastry or pie crust and use a circular cutter to create rounds matching the size of your dessert cups.
3. Gently press the pastry rounds into each cup, ensuring smooth edges and complete coverage.
4. Bake the pastry cups for 10-12 minutes until they transform into a rich, golden brown color with crisp edges.
5. While pastry bakes, melt butter in a saucepan and add diced apples, stirring with brown sugar and cinnamon until the fruit softens and caramelizes.
6. Remove golden pastry cups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
7. Carefully spoon the warm, caramelized apple mixture into each delicate pastry shell.
8. Enhance the dessert by drizzling additional caramel sauce over the filled cups for extra decadence.
9. Optional: Crown each dessert cup with a dollop of whipped cream just before serving to add a creamy contrast.
10. Serve immediately while the pastry remains crisp and the apples are still warm.

Notes

• Make your pastry extra crispy by brushing with an egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny finish.
• Experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for varied tartness and texture.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute puff pastry with almond flour or gluten-free pie crust.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg