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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Section: Sweet Desserts & Treats

This dish features tender, spiced apples cooked with butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon and lemon, providing a warm, syrupy fruit layer. A creamy vanilla pudding enriched with cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly complements the apples, while a buttery graham cracker crust adds texture. The components are carefully layered with smooth caramel and fluffy whipped topping for a cozy, easy-to-serve dessert cup ideal for gatherings and seasonal celebrations.

Preparation involves lightly cooking the apple layer until soft and syrupy, mixing together a chilled cinnamon pudding, and pressing together a crumbly graham crust. These elements are then assembled in layers, with caramel sauce drizzled between and finished with whipped cream or topping. Additional garnishes such as pecans or cinnamon can be added for extra flavor and crunch, making this a delightful, no-bake treat that balances sweetness and spice.

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Last modified on Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:22:47 GMT
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A dessert in a plastic cup. | dinabakery.com

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups bring together warm spiced apples, creamy cinnamon pudding, buttery graham cracker crumbs, fluffy whipped topping, and sweet caramel sauce to create a cozy no-bake dessert perfect for fall gatherings. The layers deliver a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make this treat a favorite for holidays, potlucks, or simply a fun family dessert.

I first made these during a chilly autumn weekend, and the combination of warm apples with cold pudding instantly won over everyone in my house. We now request them every fall as a special treat.

Ingredients

  • Two large apples: peeled and diced, preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness
  • One tablespoon butter: to sauté the apples and bring out their natural flavor
  • Two tablespoons brown sugar: to add sweetness and caramel notes to the apples
  • Half teaspoon cinnamon: for warming spice that pairs beautifully with apples
  • One teaspoon fresh lemon juice: to keep the apples bright and prevent browning
  • One box of instant vanilla pudding mix: for a creamy and quick pudding base
  • Two cups cold milk: which you can use dairy or non-dairy for creaminess
  • Half teaspoon cinnamon: added to the pudding for a subtle spice kick
  • Quarter teaspoon nutmeg: optional but adds a lovely autumn aroma
  • One cup graham cracker crumbs: to provide a buttery textured base
  • One tablespoon melted butter: that binds the graham crackers together nicely
  • Half cup caramel sauce: for a rich, sweet finishing touch
  • One cup whipped topping or whipped cream: to top each cup with fluffy sweetness
  • Optional toppings: like chopped pecans, sprinkles, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra crunch and decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Apple Layer:
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat then add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for five to seven minutes stirring occasionally until the apples are softened and the mixture is syrupy. Let this cool completely to avoid melting the pudding or topping later.
Make the Cinnamon Pudding:
In a bowl whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg if using. Continue whisking for about two to three minutes until the pudding thickens. Place in the fridge to chill for 10 minutes to set properly.
Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl until the mixture looks like wet sand. This creates a buttery, crunchy layer at the bottom of your cups.
Assemble the Dessert Cups:
In each cup start by adding a layer of the graham cracker mixture, then spoon in a layer of cinnamon pudding, followed by the cooked apple layer. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples and finish with a generous dollop of whipped topping. Repeat the layers if your cup is tall enough for added indulgence.
Finish and Chill:
Add extra caramel drizzle, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or some chopped pecans on top for garnish. Chill the assembled cups in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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Two desserts with whipped cream and fruit. | dinabakery.com

My favorite ingredient is the spiced apple layer. The moment the aroma of cinnamon and warm apples fills my kitchen it feels like fall has truly arrived. This recipe has become a perfect way to celebrate cozy moments with family around the table.

Storage Tips

Store the dessert cups covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure the apple layer has completely cooled before assembling to keep the whipped topping firm. For best texture, add toppings just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or gingersnap cookies for a different flavor profile. Use dairy-free pudding mix and milk to make the dessert vegan friendly. Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar in the apple layer for a natural sweetener option.

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A dessert in a plastic cup. | dinabakery.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve these dessert cups chilled alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or apple cider for a perfect autumn pairing. They also work wonderfully as individual desserts at holiday dinners where each guest can have their own beautifully layered treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What types of apples work best for this dessert?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they provide a nice balance to the sweetness and hold their shape well during cooking.

→ Can the pudding be made from scratch instead of instant mix?

Yes, a homemade vanilla pudding thickened with cinnamon and nutmeg can be used for a richer, fresher flavor.

→ How should the apple layer be cooked?

Apples are gently cooked with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until they soften and release syrupy juices, about 5–7 minutes.

→ What alternatives are there for the whipped topping?

Fresh whipped cream can be substituted for store-bought topping for a lighter, creamier finish.

→ How far in advance can these cups be assembled?

The dessert cups can be made up to 24 hours ahead and chilled, allowing flavors to meld while maintaining texture.

→ Are there any recommended toppings?

Optional toppings include chopped pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or colorful sprinkles to add crunch and visual interest.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Warm spiced apples combined with cinnamon pudding, graham crumbs, caramel, and fluffy whipped topping in layered cups.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
7 minutes
Total Preparation Time
27 minutes
By: Dina

Featured in: Desserts

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: American

Number of Portions: 6 Serving Size (6 to 8 dessert cups)

Dietary Options: Vegetarian Option

The Ingredients You'll Need

→ Apple Layer

01 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
02 1 tablespoon butter
03 2 tablespoons brown sugar
04 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
05 1 teaspoon lemon juice

→ Creamy Pudding Layer

06 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
07 2 cups cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
08 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
09 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

→ Layering and Topping

10 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
11 1 tablespoon melted butter
12 1/2 cup caramel sauce
13 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
14 Optional: chopped pecans, sprinkles, or additional cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until apples soften and become syrupy. Allow to cool completely.

Step 02

Whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Continue whisking for 2 to 3 minutes until mixture thickens. Chill the pudding for 10 minutes.

Step 03

Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand.

Step 04

In each cup, layer graham cracker mixture, cinnamon pudding, cooked apples, caramel sauce, and whipped topping. Repeat layers as desired for fuller cups.

Step 05

Top cups with additional caramel, cinnamon, or chopped nuts as preferred. Chill cups for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Extra Tips

  1. Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness and allow apple layer to cool completely before layering to prevent melting the pudding or topping.
  2. Layer dessert with a spoon or piping bag for clean edges; avoid overfilling to leave space for toppings or lids.
  3. This dessert can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.

Tools You'll Need

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Serving cups or ramekins
  • Spoon or piping bag

Allergy Information

Check ingredient labels to avoid allergens, and speak to an expert if necessary.
  • Contains dairy (milk, butter, whipped topping) and gluten (graham cracker crumbs)
  • May contain nuts if pecans are used as topping