Name: Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Prep time: PT-488454H56M9S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/3 cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 1/2 cups cold milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1 cup heavy whipping cream

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I whipped up these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups to bring together the comfort of cinnamon-spiced apples, the richness of caramel mousse, and the crunch of a buttery cookie crust. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that delivers cozy fall flavors in every bite—perfect for parties or treating myself.

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these dessert cups combine sweet, creamy, tart, and crunchy textures all in one compact serving. They’re simple to prepare, look impressive, and I don’t even have to turn on the oven. Whether I’m making them ahead for a gathering or just craving something seasonal and delicious, these little cups always hit the spot.

Ingredients

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

3 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

I start by peeling and dicing the apples, then cooking them in a pan over medium heat with brown sugar and cinnamon. After about 7 to 10 minutes, once they’re soft and caramelized, I set them aside to cool.

While the apples cool, I crush the vanilla wafers and stir in melted butter to create a crumbly crust. I press a spoonful of this mixture into the bottom of each small dessert cup.

Next, I prepare the caramel mousse by whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. I stir in the caramel sauce, then gently fold in whipped heavy cream until the mousse is fluffy and smooth.

To assemble, I layer the caramel mousse over the cookie crust, then spoon the cooled cinnamon apples on top. I chill the cups for at least an hour so everything sets nicely before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 28 mini dessert cups (2-ounce size), ideal for parties or small gatherings.
Prep time: 30–40 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: About 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the vanilla wafers for crushed graham crackers or shortbread, depending on what I have on hand. I’ve also tried mixing a little sea salt into the caramel sauce for a salted caramel twist. When I want extra texture, I sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top. For a lighter version, I’ve replaced the whipped cream with Greek yogurt or coconut whipped topping—and it still turns out delicious.

storage/reheating

I store the dessert cups in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or lids, for up to 3 days. They hold their shape well and the flavors deepen with time. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the mousse changes after thawing. When I’m ready to serve, I just chill them again briefly if needed.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make these?

I usually make them up to 2 days ahead. The flavors actually improve as they sit, and they stay fresh and creamy in the fridge.

Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use canned apple pie filling if I’m in a hurry. I just chop the slices a bit smaller so they layer better in the cups.

What size cups should I use?

I like using 2-ounce mini cups—they’re perfect for single servings and easy to serve at parties. For a more generous dessert, I’ve used 4-ounce cups too.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely. If I have extra time, I make a simple homemade caramel sauce. It gives the mousse an even richer, deeper flavor.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, I can substitute coconut milk and a dairy-free pudding mix, along with coconut whipped cream. It changes the flavor slightly, but still turns out creamy and satisfying.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are one of my favorite ways to enjoy classic fall flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Every spoonful gives me that cozy combo of apple pie and caramel mousse, and they always impress when I serve them. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or just want a sweet treat for myself, these dessert cups are a go-to indulgence I keep coming back to.