Caramel Apple Dessert Cups ✨

When I want a dessert that feels cozy yet elegant, I love making these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups. They layer a buttery vanilla wafer crust with cinnamon-spiced apples and a creamy caramel mousse for a treat that’s equal parts crunchy, smooth, and sweet. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, dinner parties, or anytime I’m craving caramel apples in a fancier form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like these dessert cups because they’re individually portioned, easy to assemble, and look impressive without being complicated. The layers balance perfectly—the crisp crust, warm cinnamon apples, and silky mousse feel like a spoonful of autumn. Plus, they can be made ahead, which makes entertaining so much easier.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apple layer:

• 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the caramel mousse:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups cold milk
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 1/2 cups whipped topping

Directions

1. I start by making the apple layer: in a skillet over medium heat, I cook the diced apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender, about 5–7 minutes. I let them cool.
2. For the crust, I mix the vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. I spoon about 2 tablespoons into the bottom of each serving cup and press lightly to form a crust.
3. For the mousse, I whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. I stir in the caramel sauce, then gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
4. To assemble, I layer the crust, a spoonful of apples, and the caramel mousse. I repeat if I want taller layers.
5. I finish each cup with extra apples, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of crushed cookies.
6. I chill the cups for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 dessert cups.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 8

Variations

• Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the apples for extra spice.
• A graham cracker crust works just as well if I don’t have vanilla wafers.
• For a richer mousse, I swap the whipped topping for freshly whipped cream.
• I’ve also added chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store these dessert cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold their shape well, but I add any final caramel drizzle just before serving. These aren’t meant to be reheated, so I always enjoy them chilled.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I usually prepare them the night before and keep them chilled until ready to serve.

What kind of apples work best?

I like using firm apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. A mix of both works beautifully.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely. Homemade caramel adds a deeper flavor, but store-bought works fine too.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

Yes, I use sugar-free pudding mix, light whipped topping, and less caramel sauce for a lighter version.

Do I need to bake the crust?

No, since it’s a pressed crumb crust, there’s no baking required.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are one of my favorite make-ahead treats because they’re creamy, crunchy, and bursting with caramel-apple flavor. I love how each spoonful gives me the perfect mix of textures and autumn spices. Whether I serve them for a party or just as a cozy family dessert, they always disappear fast.

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