Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups offer the perfect blend of warm, gooey caramel, spiced apples, and crunchy pecans, all nestled in a soft, buttery biscuit cup. This easy-to-make dessert is ideal for fall, but it’s a treat that can be enjoyed year-round. With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, these dessert cups come together quickly to satisfy any sweet craving. The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples, rich caramel sauce, and toasted pecans creates a delightful bite-sized indulgence that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these caramel apple dessert cups are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Simple

This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for when you need a last-minute dessert without sacrificing flavor.

2. Perfect for Fall

The combination of apples, cinnamon, and caramel makes this dessert the ideal treat for cozy fall evenings.

3. Individual Portions

These dessert cups are individually sized, making them perfect for serving guests or for portion control.

4. Customizable

You can easily tweak this recipe by adding other ingredients, such as raisins or a drizzle of whipped cream, for added flavor.

5. Family-Friendly

Everyone, from kids to adults, will enjoy these warm, sweet, and comforting dessert cups.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuit dough
• Caramel sauce
• Chopped pecans
• Apples (cored and diced)
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon

Variations

• Add Some Spice: For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture.
• Nut-Free: Skip the pecans if you prefer a nut-free version or substitute with granola for a crunchy topping.
• Swap the Biscuits: You can use puff pastry or phyllo dough instead of biscuit dough for a flakier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Cups

Grease a muffin tin and press each biscuit dough into the cups, shaping them into a cup form.

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

In a bowl, combine diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring to coat the apples evenly.

Step 4: Fill the Biscuit Cups

Spoon the apple mixture into each biscuit cup, distributing it evenly.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Pecans

Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple mixture in each cup, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Step 6: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Allow the caramel apple dessert cups to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, which hold up well when baked.
• Even Distribution: Be sure to divide the apple mixture evenly among the biscuit cups to ensure each one gets an equal amount of caramel and pecans.
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the biscuits as they bake to prevent them from overbaking or burning. The tops should be golden brown.

How to Serve

Serve these caramel apple dessert cups warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider for the ultimate fall treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked dessert cups. Assemble the cups in the muffin tin, then cover with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply remove from the freezer, let them thaw for 15 minutes, and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat any leftover caramel apple dessert cups in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Yes, you can substitute homemade biscuit dough for the refrigerated kind, but make sure it’s soft and easy to shape into cups.

2. What kind of apples are best for baking?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are all excellent choices for baking because they hold their shape and balance sweetness and tartness.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cups in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just allow extra time in the oven if they’re cold.

4. Can I make these without pecans?

Yes, you can skip the pecans or substitute them with another nut like walnuts, or use granola for crunch if you prefer.

5. Can I use caramel from a jar?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to heat it slightly if it’s too thick to drizzle.

6. How can I add more flavor to the caramel sauce?

Try adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a salted caramel version of this dessert.

7. Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Pears, peaches, or even berries can be used in place of apples for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can omit it or replace it with nutmeg or allspice for a different warm spice flavor.

9. How do I prevent the biscuit dough from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the cups until golden brown to avoid soggy dough. The caramel sauce should be drizzled sparingly so it doesn’t overwhelm the biscuit.

10. Can I top the dessert with whipped cream?

Absolutely! Whipped cream would be a perfect topping to balance out the sweetness of the caramel.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a simple, yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for fall or any time you’re craving something sweet. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep time, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or even as a cozy treat to enjoy on a quiet evening. The combination of soft biscuit dough, caramel, apples, and crunchy pecans creates a mouthwatering bite every time. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these caramel apple dessert cups are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation.

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