Name: Apple Caramel Dessert Cups Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced); ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 3 tablespoons salted butter; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers; ¼ cup salted butter, melted and cooled; 3.4 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 ¼ cup cold whole milk; ¾ cup salted caramel sauce, divided ¼ cup and ½ cup; 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 15 reviews

If fall had a flavor, it would be perfectly captured by these Apple Caramel Dessert Cups. Imagine cozy layers of cinnamon-spiced apples, crunchy vanilla wafer crumbs, silky vanilla pudding, and decadent swirls of homemade whipped cream, all brought together by ribbons of rich salted caramel. These little treats pack every bit of comfort you’d want in a dessert, and best of all, they’re individually portioned, making them a dream for parties or any night you want a sweet pick-me-up.

Apple Caramel Dessert Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Apple Caramel Dessert Cups is in their simplicity—each ingredient shines on its own, yet together they make magic happen. You don’t need anything fancy, just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh apples, and you’re set to craft a show-stopping treat.

Granny Smith apples (3 cups, peeled, cored, and finely diced): Their tartness balances out the sweetness, and they hold their shape beautifully when cooked.
Light brown sugar, packed (⅓ cup): Adds depth and a mellow caramel note that enhances the apples.
Salted butter (3 tablespoons, plus ¼ cup melted and cooled): Rich and creamy, butter softens the apples and binds the cookie crust, while the salt lifts all the flavors.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that signature warm bakery aroma and classic fall spice.
Crushed vanilla wafers (2 cups): These create the perfect, simple cookie base with a buttery crunch.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Lends an instant, velvety custard layer that holds everything together.
Cold whole milk (1¼ cup): Makes the pudding luscious and creamy, not too thick or thin.
Salted caramel sauce (¾ cup, divided): The star drizzle that adds irresistible sweetness and a hint of salt.
Cold heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to pillowy peaks for that dreamy, light-as-air topping.

How to Make Apple Caramel Dessert Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Begin by melting the 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely diced Granny Smith apples, followed by the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until the apples are tender and the mixture is sticky and caramel-scented. Let this mixture cool completely—this ensures your layers stay clean and tidy later.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Wafer Crust Layer

Combine your crushed vanilla wafers with the ¼ cup of melted and cooled salted butter in a medium bowl. Mix everything until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. This will be the base layer, adding lots of flavor and a lovely crunch to your Apple Caramel Dessert Cups.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Pudding Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold whole milk. Beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is thickened but still pourable. Let it stand for 5 minutes to finish setting up—you want it creamy but not too stiff so the layers come together smoothly.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

Pour your cold heavy whipping cream into a clean bowl. Using a mixer, whip on high speed until you see soft peaks form. Stop there for a soft, billowy consistency that’s just right for topping. If you’d like, you can add a spoonful of powdered sugar for extra sweetness, but honestly, it’s plenty indulgent as is.

Step 5: Assemble the Dessert Cups

To build the Apple Caramel Dessert Cups, start by layering a spoonful of the vanilla wafer mixture at the bottom of each cup or jar. Add a generous helping of the cinnamon apple filling, then drizzle a bit of caramel sauce (from the ¼ cup reserved). Next, dollop or pipe some vanilla pudding, followed by a swirl of whipped cream. Repeat the layers as your cup size allows, finishing with a final flourish of caramel drizzle on top. Chill for at least one hour before serving—this helps the flavors meld and gives you those picture-perfect layers.

How to Serve Apple Caramel Dessert Cups

Garnishes

The finishing touches take these Apple Caramel Dessert Cups from homemade to “wow!” Try a sprinkle of extra crushed vanilla wafers, a dash of cinnamon, or even a delicate apple slice fanned out on top. A pinch of sea salt accentuates the caramel for an irresistible sweet-salty bite.

Side Dishes

Because these dessert cups are so decadent, they pair beautifully with coffee, hot apple cider, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. If you’re serving a fall brunch or holiday spread, a platter of spiced nuts or sharp cheddar cheese balances the sweetness and rounds out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Apple Caramel Dessert Cups in mason jars for a casual look, or use elegant wine glasses for a fancy dinner party. Mini trifle bowls, clear tumblers, or even hollowed-out apples make for extra-festive presentation. Top each cup with a caramel-dipped apple slice for a playful touch everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the dessert cups tightly with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for up to three days. The layers will stay deliciously distinct, though the cookie crumb layer may soften a bit over time—still scrumptious!

Freezing

While the components don’t freeze well on their own, you can freeze fully assembled Apple Caramel Dessert Cups without the whipped cream topping. Just wrap each cup securely and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add fresh whipped cream and caramel before serving.

Reheating

These dessert cups are really meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you’d like gently warmed apples, you can microwave the apple filling briefly before layering. Adding hot caramel sauce as a drizzle also gives them that warm, gooey touch without sacrificing texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are loved for their tang and firmness, but feel free to swap in Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter profile. Just choose varieties that hold their shape when cooked.

Can I make these Apple Caramel Dessert Cups dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute plant-based butter, dairy-free pudding mix, non-dairy milk, and coconut whipped cream. Your dessert will still be layer upon layer of decadence, just with a different twist.

Do I have to use instant pudding mix?

If you prefer homemade pudding, go for it! Just be sure it’s well chilled and thick enough to layer. Instant mix is quick and consistent, which is why it’s recommended here, but both work beautifully.

Can I prepare Apple Caramel Dessert Cups in advance?

These cups are perfect for making ahead! Assemble them (minus the whipped cream topping) up to a day in advance, then add fresh cream and a caramel drizzle right before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have vanilla wafers?

No problem! Try graham cracker crumbs, shortbread cookies, or even ginger snaps. Each brings its own personality and will be just as delicious layered with apples and caramel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that wraps up the spirit of fall in a cup, look no further than these dreamy Apple Caramel Dessert Cups. They’re easy to make, irresistible to eat, and always a hit with friends and family. Give them a try and watch these little cups of comfort disappear in no time!