The Hot Caramel Apple Dip Recipe – Easy Fall Dessert Idea
This hot caramel apple dip recipe is a gooey, sweet, and irresistible dessert made with cream cheese, caramel, and apples. Perfect for fall parties, cozy nights, or holiday gatherings when you want a crowd-pleasing treat.
Equipment
- Baking dish (8x8 or similar)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (optional for sweetness)
Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Apple Topping:
- 2 Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, diced
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or drizzle of melted chocolate
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Base: In a bowl, soften cream cheese and mix with powdered sugar if desired. Spread evenly in a baking dish.
- Layer Caramel: Pour caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading evenly.
- Add Apples: Sprinkle diced apples on top of the caramel.
- Bake: Place dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until warm and bubbly.
- Garnish: Top with nuts, chocolate chips, or sea salt.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then serve with apple slices, graham crackers, or pretzels.
Notes
- Apple Choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance sweetness best.
- Caramel Tip: Homemade caramel adds depth, but store-bought works for convenience.
- Cream Cheese: Always soften before spreading to avoid lumps.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble layers in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Serving Tip: Present with assorted dippers for variety—fruit, cookies, or salty pretzels.