Homemade Caramel Apple Dessert Cups: Perfect Fall Indulgence

There’s something magical about the first crisp autumn day when you crave those warm, comforting flavors that signal the season has changed. Caramel Apple Dessert Cups capture that exact feeling in a single spoonful. These individually portioned treats combine tart apples bathed in buttery caramel, all nestled into a crisp, cinnamon-scented crust that shatters perfectly with each bite. They’re like apple pie’s sophisticated cousin who studied abroad—familiar yet somehow more special.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Irresistible Mini Caramel Apple Dessert Cups for Fall Gatherings
Irresistible Mini Caramel Apple Dessert Cups for Fall Gatherings

What makes these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups truly special is their perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Unlike traditional apple pie, these individual portions caramelize more thoroughly, creating pockets of gooey goodness that simply can’t be achieved in a standard pie. The cup format also creates the ideal ratio of filling to crust in every bite—no more fighting over the perfect slice! These cups are surprisingly versatile too.

They’re elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for weeknight treats. I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, adjusting the spice blend and caramel consistency until it hits that sweet spot where the apples retain their structure while still melting in your mouth.

Equipment needed: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, apple peeler, pastry cutter or food processor

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

These individual Caramel Apple Dessert Cups feature flaky pastry cups filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and homemade caramel sauce, baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you crave a comforting, portion-controlled treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Bake time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 dessert cups

Ingredients
  

For the Crust

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
  • 4-6 tablespoons ice water
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Filling

  • 4 medium Granny Smith apples peeled and diced (about 4 cups) – Honeycrisp or Braeburn work well too
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Caramel

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the pastry dough by combining flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a food processor. Pulse in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough just comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Make the caramel sauce by combining sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir! Let it cook until it turns amber (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, carefully whisk in cream (it will bubble vigorously), then butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the apple filling by tossing diced apples with both sugars, flour, spices, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and juices to release.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin generously with butter or cooking spray.
  • Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into 4-inch circles (a large cookie cutter or bowl works well). Gently press each circle into muffin cups, allowing the edges to extend slightly above the rim.
  • Spoon the apple mixture evenly into each pastry cup, filling them almost to the top. Drizzle each with about 1-2 teaspoons of the prepared caramel sauce, reserving some for serving.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Look for caramelized edges—that’s where the magic happens!
  • Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove cups using a knife to gently loosen the edges. Transfer to a wire rack to cool for another 10-15 minutes.
  • Serve warm with an additional drizzle of caramel sauce and a small scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Notes

  • For the flakiest crust, make sure all your ingredients are cold, and don’t overwork the dough.
  • You can prepare the pastry dough and caramel sauce up to 3 days ahead and store in the refrigerator.
  • To save time, use store-bought caramel sauce, but warm it slightly before drizzling.
  • These cups can be fully baked and frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle a few chopped toasted pecans on top before baking.
  • A touch of bourbon or apple brandy in the caramel sauce adds wonderful complexity.

Calories & Nutritional Info

  • Calories: Approximately 320 per dessert cup
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Allergens: Contains wheat, dairy
  • Dietary notes: Can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overworking the pastry dough – This results in tough, shrinking crusts. Mix just until combined for maximum flakiness.
  • Cutting apples too large – Dice them small (about 1/4 inch) so they cook through properly during baking.
  • Walking away from the caramel – Sugar can go from perfectly amber to burnt in seconds. Stay vigilant!
  • Under-greasing the muffin tin – These cups can stick stubbornly; be generous with your butter or cooking spray.
  • Removing the cups too soon – They need those 10 minutes in the pan to set up, or they might fall apart.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • For a gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
  • For dairy-free needs: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
  • No time for homemade caramel? Quality store-bought caramel sauce works in a pinch.
  • Fruit variations: Substitute or mix in pears, peaches, or berries for a different flavor profile.
  • Lower sugar option: Reduce the granulated sugar by 25% and add a pinch more cinnamon to enhance perceived sweetness.
  • Spice alternatives: Cardamom, ginger, or allspice can replace or complement the cinnamon and nutmeg.

FAQs

Can I make these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components separately up to 3 days ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest result, or bake completely and reheat at 325°F for 10 minutes to restore that just-baked quality.

Why did my caramel crystallize?

Crystallization usually happens when sugar crystals form on the side of the pan. Prevent this by avoiding stirring during the initial cooking phase and using a pastry brush dipped in water to wash down any sugar crystals on the sides of the pan.

Can I use pre-made pie crust for this recipe?

Yes! Store-bought pie crust works perfectly for a time-saving shortcut. Just be sure to roll it slightly thinner than it comes packaged and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra flavor dimension.

How do I know when the dessert cups are done baking?

Look for three indicators: golden brown crust edges, bubbling filling, and most importantly, caramelized edges where the filling meets the crust. This caramelization is essential for that rich, complex flavor.

Can I make these in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized versions?

Definitely! For mini versions, cut the dough into 2.5-inch circles and reduce the baking time to 18-20 minutes. They make perfect two-bite desserts for parties.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups have become my signature fall dessert for good reason. There’s something deeply satisfying about creating these little vessels of autumn joy, where the humble apple transforms into something truly special. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying one with your evening tea, I hope they bring the same comfort and delight to your table that they’ve brought to mine.

Photo of author
WRITTEN BY
Sharon Sherman is the founder of World Kitchen Tools, a home cook who turned her everyday kitchen experiences into a helpful resource for others. Like many of us, she learned through trial and error, family recipes, and lots of practice. Sharon started this blog because she believes good cooking shouldn't be complicated or expensive. When not testing recipes or kitchen gadgets, she enjoys gardening, reading cookbooks, and exploring local farmers markets with her family.

Related Articles


Quick & Easy 3-Ingredient Fudge - The No-Fail Chocolate Treat Everyone Loves

Quick & Easy 3-Ingredient Fudge: The No-Fail Chocolate Treat Everyone Loves

Matthew Kemp

Discover the magic of this foolproof 3-Ingredient Fudge that transforms chocolate chips, condensed milk, and vanilla into a luxurious treat in minutes. Perfect for beginners and busy dessert lovers alike, this recipe delivers velvety chocolate bliss without any special equipment.
Strawberry Shortcake Trifles - The Perfect Make-Ahead Summer Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake Trifles: The Perfect Make-Ahead Summer Dessert

Sylvia Meyer

Transform the classic American dessert into elegant, make-ahead Strawberry Shortcake Trifles featuring layers of tender cake, juicy macerated berries, and pillowy whipped cream. These individual servings deliver maximum visual impact with minimum effort—perfect for summer entertaining.
Easy Lemon Icebox Pie - The Chilled Summer Classic You Need

Easy Lemon Icebox Pie: The Chilled Summer Classic You Need

Sharon Sherman

This classic Lemon Icebox Pie delivers bright, zesty flavor in a creamy, cool package that's perfect for hot days. With its no-bake filling and make-ahead convenience, it's the ideal dessert for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.
Perfect Brownie Bites - Indulgent Chocolate Treats in Just One Bite

Perfect Brownie Bites: Indulgent Chocolate Treats in Just One Bite

Raymond Johnson

Discover the joy of perfectly portable chocolate indulgence with these irresistible Brownie Bites. Featuring crackly tops, fudgy centers, and endless customization options, these two-bite wonders deliver maximum chocolate impact in minimal size.
Irresistible Peanut Butter Cup Brownies - The Ultimate Chocolate-Peanut Butter Dessert

Irresistible Peanut Butter Cup Brownies: The Ultimate Chocolate-Peanut Butter Dessert

Quincy McCune

Discover the secret to perfect Peanut Butter Cup Brownies with this foolproof recipe. Featuring a fudgy chocolate base swirled with creamy peanut butter and studded with peanut butter cup pieces, these decadent squares combine America's favorite flavor duo in one irresistible treat.
Cozy Banana Bread Pudding Recipe That'll Melt Your Heart

Cozy Banana Bread Pudding Recipe That’ll Melt Your Heart

Raymond Johnson

Transform overripe bananas and day-old bread into a luscious, custardy dessert that's greater than the sum of its parts. This Banana Bread Pudding combines two beloved classics into one comforting dish that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating