Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups
Buttery graham cracker crumbs layered with creamy vanilla cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a rich caramel drizzle. These easy no-bake dessert cups are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy sweet treat!
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
For the Cinnamon Apples
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Caramel Drizzle
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Divide the crumb mixture evenly among 6 small dessert cups or jars, using about 2 tablespoons per cup. Press gently to form an even layer.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream until light and fluffy.
Set the cheesecake mixture aside.
3. Cook the Cinnamon Apples
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Cook for about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Cups
Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust.
Add a layer of cinnamon apples.
Repeat the layers if your cups are tall enough, finishing with a spoonful of cheesecake filling or cinnamon apples.
5. Add the Caramel Drizzle
Warm the caramel sauce slightly if needed. For a thinner drizzle, stir in the heavy cream.
Drizzle the caramel sauce over each cheesecake cup.
Sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs or a pinch of cinnamon, if desired.
6. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
Serve chilled with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Optional Toppings
These cheesecake cups are delicious topped with:
- Whipped cream
- Extra caramel sauce
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Graham cracker crumbs
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
- Thin apple slices
- Toffee bits
Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups
- Use crisp apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture.
- Let the cooked apples cool before layering so they do not soften the cheesecake filling.
- Soften the cream cheese fully for the smoothest filling.
- Chill the cups before serving to help the layers set.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade caramel sauce.
- Assemble the cups in small jars for an easy make-ahead dessert.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 cups