1. Can I make caramel apple dessert cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dessert cups ahead of time! In fact, they benefit from a few hours in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. You can make them the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

2. How can I make these caramel apple dessert cups gluten-free?

To make these dessert cups gluten-free, simply swap the vanilla wafer crust for gluten-free cookies or create a crust using crushed nuts like almonds or pecans. Make sure the other ingredients, like the caramel mousse and whipped cream, are gluten-free as well.

3. Can I use a different fruit for these dessert cups?

Yes! While the cinnamon apples are a classic choice, you can try using other fruits like pears or peaches for a unique twist. Be sure to adjust the seasonings to complement the chosen fruit. For example, you could try nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.

4. How do I store leftover caramel apple dessert cups?

Store any leftover caramel apple dessert cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2–3 days. Make sure to keep the dessert cups chilled until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488709H28M16S
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Vanilla Wafer Crust: 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies – Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base for the dessert cups, enhancing the overall texture.; Salted Caramel Mousse: 1/2 cup caramel sauce, 8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Adds a rich, creamy, and slightly salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.; Cinnamon Apples: 2 medium apples, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tbsp sugar – The key ingredient that delivers a warm, spiced flavor, making this dessert the perfect fall treat.; Whipped Cream: 1 cup heavy cream – Light and fluffy, it helps balance the richness of the caramel mousse.; Caramel Sauce: 1/4 cup caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Description

Caramel apple dessert cups are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings the flavors of fall into a perfectly portable form. With a vanilla wafer crust, creamy salted caramel mousse, and warm cinnamon apples, these dessert cups are an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a family dinner or a festive treat for a party, these caramel apple dessert cups are sure to impress.

Ingredients

Vanilla Wafer Crust: 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies – Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base for the dessert cups, enhancing the overall texture.
Salted Caramel Mousse: 1/2 cup caramel sauce, 8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Adds a rich, creamy, and slightly salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
Cinnamon Apples: 2 medium apples, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tbsp sugar – The key ingredient that delivers a warm, spiced flavor, making this dessert the perfect fall treat.
Whipped Cream: 1 cup heavy cream – Light and fluffy, it helps balance the richness of the caramel mousse.
Caramel Sauce: 1/4 cup caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

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Instructions

Start by preparing the vanilla wafer crust. Crush the cookies into small crumbs and press them into the bottom of your cups. Use a spoon or your fingers to make an even layer.
Prepare the caramel mousse by whisking together caramel sauce, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped cream to add lightness to the mixture.
Slice your apples into small pieces and toss them with cinnamon and a little sugar. Allow them to marinate for a few minutes to draw out their natural juices.
Spoon the caramel mousse into each cup, layering it over the crust.
Top each dessert cup with cinnamon apples, and drizzle with additional caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the mousse to set.

Notes

For a firmer crust, bake the vanilla wafer crumbs for 10 minutes at 350°F before pressing them into the cups.
Adjust the level of cinnamon in the apples based on your preference. For a more intense flavor, add an extra pinch of cinnamon.
Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the cups allows the mousse to firm up, making them easier to serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None (No-bake recipe)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg