Name: Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced; 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup quick oats; 1/4 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: dairy-free caramel sauce for drizzling

Sweet, gooey caramel paired with warmly spiced apples—all wrapped in a wholesome oat-and-nut butter crust. These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are everything I love about fall baking, delivered in adorable bite-sized form. Whether I’m hosting a cozy get-together or just craving something comforting but still healthy, these little cups never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced

1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup quick oats

1/4 cup almond flour

1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: dairy-free caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a mini muffin tin.

In a skillet over medium heat, I melt the coconut oil or butter, then stir in the diced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I cook it for 5–7 minutes until the apples turn soft and caramelized, then remove from heat.

In a separate bowl, I mix oats, almond flour, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until a sticky dough forms.

I press about 1 tablespoon of this dough into each muffin cup, shaping it up the sides to form little cups.

I bake the cups for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden.

After baking, I let them cool in the tin for 10 minutes before gently removing.

Finally, I spoon the warm apple filling into each cup and drizzle with caramel sauce if I’m feeling indulgent.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cups

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Calories per cup: Approximately 140 kcal

Variations

I sometimes like to mix things up by adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for a little crunch. If I’m in the mood for more spice, I’ll sprinkle in some allspice or clove. For a fun twist, I occasionally swap the apples for pears or even peaches when they’re in season.

Storage/Reheating

These dessert cups keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. I reheat them in a toaster oven or microwave just until warm. If I want to freeze them, I store the baked cups and apple filling separately, then assemble them fresh before serving.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

I prefer tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice contrast with the sweet caramel, but any firm baking apple works.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the crust and apple filling a day in advance. I store them separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Is there a nut-free version?

Absolutely—I replace the almond flour with oat flour and use sunflower seed butter in place of nut butter. It works just as well and is great for those with allergies.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Quick oats give a better texture for binding in this recipe, but I’ve pulsed old-fashioned oats in a blender a few times to mimic the finer texture, and it works too.

How do I make a homemade dairy-free caramel sauce?

I usually simmer a mixture of coconut milk, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until it thickens into a smooth caramel-like sauce—easy and delicious.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are the perfect way to capture fall flavor in a wholesome, easy-to-make treat. With their soft, chewy crust and warmly spiced filling, they always feel special without requiring much effort. Whether I’m sharing them at a party or enjoying one with my afternoon tea, they never fail to satisfy.

Recipe:

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 12 cups
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups combine a gooey, warmly spiced apple filling with a wholesome oat-and-nut butter crust. A healthier, plant-based twist on apple pie, they’re perfect for fall gatherings or everyday treats.