Description
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery oat streusel topping, all layered with rich caramel sauce and topped with whipped cream for a decadent yet easy-to-make treat perfect for fall or any cozy occasion.
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 the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the Streusel Topping: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Streusel Topping: Spread the streusel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown, then remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups: In small dessert cups or jars, layer the cooked apple mixture evenly. Drizzle each with caramel sauce, then sprinkle generously with the cooled streusel topping.
- Finish and Serve: Top the dessert cups with a dollop of whipped cream and, if desired, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweetness.
- Store leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- The dessert cups can be chilled for up to 24 hours but add whipped cream just before serving to maintain its texture.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour and oats with certified gluten-free alternatives.
