Caramel Apple Dessert Cups – Best No-Bake Fall Dessert

Craving a cozy fall dessert that’s as easy as it is irresistible? These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups combine the rich sweetness of salted caramel mousse with tender cinnamon apples layered over a vanilla wafer crust — all packed into individual servings. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet weeknight indulgence, these no-bake treats bring the comforting taste of caramel apples to a creamy, spoonable format. Whether you’re entertaining or meal-prepping for the week, this dessert hits all the right seasonal notes with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the perfect blend of nostalgic flavor and modern convenience. Here’s what makes them a must-try:

• No-Bake and Effortless: Skip the oven — this recipe is made entirely on the stovetop and chilled for easy prep.
• Seasonal Favorite: Caramel and cinnamon apples are iconic autumn flavors that appeal to all ages.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping ahead for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
• Portion-Controlled: Served in 2-ounce dessert cups, they’re ideal for single servings or tasting menus.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Vanilla Wafer Cookies: Provide a buttery, lightly sweet base with a crunch that softens just enough when chilled.
• Unsalted Butter: Binds the cookie crust and adds rich flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Adds tangy depth and stabilizes the mousse texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mousse without grittiness.
• Caramel Sauce: The star of the mousse — brings creamy sweetness and that classic caramel apple vibe.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped to fold into the mousse, giving it a light, airy texture.
• Apples (peeled and diced): Offer freshness and a tart contrast to the rich mousse.
• Brown Sugar: Adds molasses warmth to the apple filling.
• Ground Cinnamon: Delivers cozy spice that complements the apples and caramel.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the apples and prevents browning.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the apple mixture to a jammy consistency.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

• Graham Crackers instead of vanilla wafers for a nuttier crust.
• Greek Yogurt can replace half the cream cheese for a lighter mousse.
• Dairy-Free Whipped Cream and vegan butter make this recipe plant-based.
• Pre-Made Caramel Sauce is convenient, but homemade versions work too.
• Apple Varieties: Try Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for tartness.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

1. Make the Crust
   Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin. Mix with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press into the bottoms of small dessert cups and chill to set.
2. Prepare the Caramel Mousse
   In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, caramel sauce, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the caramel mixture to create a light, fluffy mousse.
3. Cook the Apple Filling
   In a saucepan, cook diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir often until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens to a jammy consistency. Let cool completely.
4. Assemble the Cups
   Spoon or pipe the caramel mousse over the prepared crusts. Top with cooled cinnamon apples. Chill for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
5. Serve
   Serve chilled with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce, a sprinkle of crushed cookies, or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cups Every Time

• Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Let it sit at room temp to avoid lumps in your mousse.
• Use Stabilized Whipped Cream: For longer-lasting texture, add a spoonful of cornstarch or use whipped topping.
• Let Apples Cool: Hot filling can deflate or melt the mousse — be sure to cool it first.
• Layer Neatly: Use a piping bag or spoon carefully to keep layers distinct and visually appealing.
• Chill Thoroughly: Give the cups at least an hour in the fridge for the mousse to set and flavors to meld.

Delicious Variations and Pairings

• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne or nutmeg to the apples for a subtle heat.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before serving.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
• Serve with: Hot apple cider, spiced tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
• Mini Cheesecake Bar: Include these along with pumpkin and chocolate mousse cups for a trio of fall flavors.

Celebrate Fall with Every Spoonful

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups offer the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spiced — all without turning on the oven. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or craving something festive on a weekday, these no-bake treats deliver all the comfort of classic caramel apples in a refined, indulgent package. Their make-ahead nature, minimal cleanup, and crowd-pleasing flavor make them a seasonal staple you’ll return to every fall.

Conclusion: A Spoonful of Fall in Every Bite

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the kind of dessert that makes fall feel magical — indulgent, easy to make, and packed with seasonal comfort. From the buttery cookie crust to the smooth caramel mousse and warm cinnamon apples, every layer is thoughtfully crafted to delight. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this no-bake recipe is your ticket to a fuss-free, flavor-packed dessert that everyone will love.

Make a batch ahead of time and keep them chilled for those moments when only a spoonful of sweet, spiced goodness will do. They’re not just a dessert — they’re a celebration of fall in the most delicious way possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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