Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Sweet, creamy, and perfectly festive, these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a no-bake Christmas treat that’ll make everyone smile. The mix of buttery cookie crust, silky caramel mousse, and cinnamon-kissed apples feels cozy and indulgent. Each cup delivers that warm caramel apple flavor in just a few bites. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead — just 30 minutes of prep, a short chill time, and you’ve got 14 mini desserts ready to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups because they’re simple, no-bake, and irresistibly creamy. They use basic ingredients you probably already have — cookies, cream cheese, caramel, and apples. Each layer adds something special: a buttery crunch at the bottom, light caramel mousse in the middle, and soft, spiced apples on top. The drizzle of salted caramel ties it all together for that sweet-salty magic. Also, they’re perfect for parties or make-ahead treats when your oven’s already busy with holiday baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust

1½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies, 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), 3 tablespoons granulated sugar. Substitute Options: Graham crackers or Golden Oreos also work beautifully for the crust if you prefer a slightly different flavor.

For the Caramel Mousse

8 ounces cream cheese (softened), 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 cup heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup salted caramel sauce (plus extra for topping). You can use homemade or store-bought caramel — both blend perfectly into the creamy mousse.

For the Apple Topping

2 cups peeled, diced apples, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Small apple pieces work best for mini dessert cups, giving just the right bite of sweetness in every spoonful.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Step 1 – Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until everything’s evenly coated. Then, press about a tablespoon of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each 2-ounce dessert cup. This creates a crunchy base that holds up beautifully after chilling.

Step 2 – Make the Caramel Mousse

Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, then add the salted caramel sauce. Mix until the mousse is silky and uniform. Spoon or pipe this dreamy mousse over the crust layer in each cup.

Step 3 – Cook the Cinnamon Apples

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are soft and syrupy. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding it to your mousse layer.

Step 4 – Assemble and Chill

Top each mousse-filled cup with a spoonful of caramel apples. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for a pretty finish. Then refrigerate the cups for at least 1 hour to set. They’ll firm up just enough while staying delightfully creamy and smooth when served.

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes

Cover and refrigerate leftover cups for up to three days. If you’re prepping for a party, assemble them the night before to save time. Mini dessert cups make adorable single servings, but you can use larger cups for fewer, heartier portions. For a nice texture balance, keep the apples small and evenly diced. The creamy mousse contrasts beautifully with the buttery crust and tender apples. You can also add a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of crushed cookies before serving for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups in clear mini cups so each layer shines through. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a light caramel drizzle for a festive touch. They pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, mulled cider, or coffee during Christmas gatherings. Also, these little cups make great additions to dessert buffets or cozy winter parties — small but so satisfying.

Storage & Make-Ahead Info

Store the dessert cups covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture stays creamy and light even after chilling. If making ahead, keep the apple topping separate until a few hours before serving, then layer and chill again briefly. Avoid freezing, as it can change the mousse’s texture.

Related Recipes to Try

• caramel apple cheesecake bars
• easy apple crisp recipe
• ultimate apple crisp with cinnamon oats
• apple pie bites
• homemade apple fritters with cider glaze
• amish apple fritter bread

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are festive, creamy, and simply irresistible. With their no-bake ease and cozy holiday flavor, they’re perfect for sharing or treating yourself after a long day of baking. So grab those mini cups and make this quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings caramel apple joy to your Christmas table. For more sweet inspiration, check out my boards on Pinterest.

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