Name: Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups apples, peeled and diced; ⅓ cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafers (about 40 wafers); 4 tablespoons melted butter; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 cup cold milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling); Whipped cream, for topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s no-fuss but still feels elegant enough for a dinner party. The combination of caramel mousse with warm cinnamon apples and crunchy cookie crust gives the perfect balance of textures and flavors. I also enjoy that they’re served in cups, making them easy to portion and fun to eat.

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
⅓ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter
1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
4 tablespoons melted butter (for crust)
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)

Directions

I start by making the apple layer: in a skillet over medium heat, I cook the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized. I set them aside to cool.
For the crust, I combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter, then press a spoonful into the bottom of each dessert cup or jar.
For the caramel mousse, I whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. I fold in caramel sauce until smooth and fluffy.
To assemble, I layer crust, caramel mousse, and cinnamon apples in each cup. I repeat layers if my cups are tall enough.
I drizzle with extra caramel sauce and add whipped cream on top before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 dessert cups. It takes 20 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook the apples, so it’s ready in about 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap vanilla wafers with graham crackers, Biscoff cookies, or even ginger snaps for the crust. I’ve also added chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. If I want a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt folded with caramel sauce instead of mousse. For a fall party, I like to serve them in mini mason jars for a rustic touch.

storage/reheating

I store the assembled cups in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. The crust will soften slightly, but the flavors meld beautifully. I don’t recommend freezing since the mousse doesn’t hold its texture well.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What apples work best?

I like using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the caramel.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works great, but homemade caramel sauce makes it extra special.

Can I make this without mousse?

Yes, I use whipped cream or vanilla pudding layered with the apples and crust for a quicker version.

How can I make it lighter?

I swap the mousse for Greek yogurt mixed with caramel or use sugar-free caramel sauce and light whipped topping.

Conclusion

Caramel apple dessert cups are one of my favorite fall treats because they’re quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I love the layers of buttery crust, creamy caramel mousse, and spiced apples all in one bite. Whether I serve them at a holiday dinner or make them as a simple weeknight treat, they always disappear fast.