Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel apples. These individual cups are perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious apple topping drizzled with caramel, these cups are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the Apple Topping

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For Drizzling

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Timing

Preparing Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of chilling time. Total time is approximately 50 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
2. Spoon the mixture into the bottom of individual dessert cups or small mason jars, pressing down firmly to create an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Apple Topping

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

1. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each cup, filling them about halfway.
2. Top the cheesecake layer with the cooked apple mixture, distributing it evenly among the cups.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple topping for added sweetness and presentation.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Place the assembled cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups (per cup, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	3g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	36g
Fiber	1g

Healthier Alternatives

• Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of regular cream cheese.
• Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol.
• Use whole grain graham crackers for the crust.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of coffee or spiced apple cider.
• Serve alongside other fall desserts like pumpkin pie or pecan pie.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream, crushed nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
• Overcooking Apples: Cook the apples just until tender; they should retain some texture and not turn mushy.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Allowing the cups to chill helps the flavors meld and the cheesecake set properly.

Storing Tips

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the caramel sauce separate until serving to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

In just about 50 minutes, you can create delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups that are perfect for any fall occasion. These individual desserts are easy to make and offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that your guests will love.

FAQs

Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake filling a day in advance. Assemble the cups a few hours before serving for the best texture.

what type of apples work best?

Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp apples provide sweetness. Feel free to mix your favorites!

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce is convenient and works perfectly for drizzling.

How can I make these cups more festive?

Add crushed nuts, a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few candied apple slices on top for added presentation.