Description
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy oat streusel topping, rich caramel sauce, and a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful autumn-inspired treat. Perfect for a cozy dessert that’s easy to assemble and sure to impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
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
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
Assembly and Garnish
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the Streusel Topping: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and blend the mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Streusel: Spread the streusel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups: Spoon the cooked apple mixture into small dessert cups or jars. Drizzle each serving with caramel sauce to enhance the flavor.
- Add the Streusel Topping and Whipped Cream: Sprinkle the cooled streusel evenly over the apple layer. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and, if desired, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence.
- Serve: Serve the caramel apple dessert cups immediately for the best texture and flavor. Alternatively, you may refrigerate until ready to serve, but note that the streusel topping may lose some crispness if chilled for long periods.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- To make this dessert ahead, prepare the apple filling and streusel in advance and assemble just before serving to maintain the crunch of the topping.
- If you prefer, substitute whipped cream with vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and oats.
