Description
Delight in these luscious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups, a perfect no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and caramelized spiced apples topped with caramel drizzle. Ideal for fall gatherings or an anytime sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Apple Topping
- 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- pinch of nutmeg
- pinch of salt
Additional
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- Optional toppings: crushed graham crackers, whipped cream, chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until fully blended. Spoon a couple of tablespoons into the bottom of each serving cup or jar and press down gently to form an even crust layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Layer: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust layer in each cup, smoothing the tops as needed.
- Caramelize the Apples: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and caramelized, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Allow mixture to cool slightly.
- Add Apple Topping: Spoon the caramelized apple mixture over the cheesecake layer in each cup.
- Final Touches: Drizzle each cup with caramel sauce. Add optional toppings such as crushed graham crackers, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Notes
- These cheesecake cups can be prepared up to one day ahead and kept refrigerated to save time.
- For a bright and balanced flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith.
- Serving in mini jars or small cups makes for easy portioning, especially suitable for parties and gatherings.
