Caramel Apple Dessert Cups with Cheesecake Layers (Print version)

No-bake caramel apple dessert cups layered with graham crumbs, fluffy cheesecake filling, cinnamon apples, and caramel sauce.

# Ingredients:

For the apple layer

01 - 3 medium firm apples, peeled if desired, cored and diced
02 - 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons (25 g) packed brown sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
07 - 1 pinch fine salt

For the crumb base

08 - 1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs
09 - 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter, melted
10 - 1 tablespoon (12 g) granulated sugar
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cheesecake layer

12 - 8 oz (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
13 - 1/3 cup (40 g) powdered sugar
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - 3/4 cup (180 ml) cold heavy whipping cream

For topping

16 - 1/2 cup (160 g) caramel sauce, plus more as needed
17 - Whipped cream, extra graham crumbs, and diced apple for garnish, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring often, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
02 - Transfer the cooked apples to a plate or shallow bowl. Let them cool to room temperature before assembling so the cheesecake layer stays thick.
03 - Stir graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until evenly moistened. The crumbs should hold together when pressed.
04 - Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
05 - Divide the crumb mixture among 6 small cups and press lightly. Add a layer of cheesecake filling, a spoonful of cooled apples, and a drizzle of caramel. Repeat the layers if your cups are tall enough.
06 - Refrigerate the cups for at least 1 hour. Garnish with whipped cream, extra crumbs, diced apple, and another caramel drizzle just before serving.

# Good to know:

01 - Use 4-ounce cups or small jars for neat individual servings.
02 - Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for the cleanest layers.
03 - Best eaten within 24 hours for the best crumb texture.

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