Description
Deliciously layered dessert cups filled with spiced apples, buttery caramel, creamy topping, and a crunchy base. A cozy fall treat that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium (about 3 cups diced) – peeled, cored, and cubed for the filling.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons – adds richness while cooking apples.
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup – sweetens and caramelizes the apples.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – infuses warm spice.
- Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon – adds depth and warmth.
- Caramel Sauce: 1/2 cup – drizzled between layers for sweetness.
- Whipped Cream or Vanilla Pudding: 2 cups – creamy contrast to spiced apples.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs or Granola: 1 cup – for a crunchy base and topping.
- Salt: A pinch – enhances all flavors.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Place a saucepan on medium heat, no oven required.
- Combine Ingredients: Melt butter, add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook 8–10 minutes until apples are tender.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Set out serving cups or jars for layering.
- Assemble the Dish: Start with graham crumbs, then caramel, apples, and repeat until filled.
- Cook to Perfection: Let cups cool, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to set layers.
- Finishing Touches: Top with whipped cream or pudding, drizzle caramel, and sprinkle crumbs or granola.
- Serve and Enjoy: Hand out with spoons and enjoy.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
- Don’t overcook apples — they should stay tender, not mushy.
- Chill for best texture and defined layers.
- Homemade caramel elevates the flavor beautifully.