Description
These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delightful combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, crunchy baked streusel topping, and smooth caramel sauce, all topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for a comforting autumn treat or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity dessert with a bit of texture and warmth.
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 butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender and caramelized, about 8 to 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 the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Streusel: Spread the streusel mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups: Spoon the cooked apple filling into small dessert cups or jars. Drizzle each cup with caramel sauce, then sprinkle with the cooled streusel topping.
- Finishing Touches: Top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Optionally, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the whipped cream for extra sweetness and flair.
- Serve: Serve the dessert cups immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm apple filling with cool whipped cream, or refrigerate them until ready to serve for a chilled version.
Notes
- You can substitute granny smith apples for a tarter flavor or Fuji apples for a sweeter taste.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and oats.
- Streusel topping can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer flavor, or store-bought for convenience.
- These dessert cups can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, but toppings should be added just before serving to preserve texture.
- Optionally add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel for extra crunch.
