Description
When fall rolls around, it’s time to indulge in the sweet and comforting flavors of caramel and apple. These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups bring together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the seasonal goodness of caramel and apples. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a special treat for yourself, these little cups are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. The crispy Pecan Sandies crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and decadent caramel topping create a dessert experience that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cheesecake cups are a delightful twist on a classic.
Ingredients
- 12 Pecan Sandies (trimmed to fit in the muffin tin)
- 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2.5 oz freeze-dried apples, roughly crushed
- 1 cup Kraft Caramel Bits
- 1 TBSP flour
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 275°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, preferably white for a classic look. Trim the Pecan Sandies to fit in the bottom of each muffin cup and place one cookie at the base of each liner.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Using a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat for about 1 minute after each addition, scraping down the bowl as needed. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined, then add the sour cream and continue beating until smooth.
Step 3: Add Apples and Caramel Bits
Fold in the freeze-dried apple pieces. In a medium-sized bowl, toss together the Kraft Caramel Bits and the flour until the bits are coated, then fold this mixture into the cheesecake batter.
Step 4: Fill the Cups and Bake
Fill each muffin cup with the cheesecake batter to the top. Bake for 22 minutes, rotating the muffin tin halfway through to ensure even baking. Once done, remove the cups from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Make the Caramel Topping
For the caramel topping, melt the Kraft Caramel Bits and water in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until smooth and creamy. Spoon the caramel over the top of each cheesecake cup.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Chill the cheesecake cups in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Once set, they’re ready to serve.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 22 minutes | Total Time: 42 minutes + chilling
Calories: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Serve these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups chilled directly from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
- For an extra touch, garnish with a few additional crushed freeze-dried apples or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture.
- These cheesecake cups are perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or even as individual treats for special occasions.
- If desired, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the tops just before serving for a more indulgent presentation.
Storage Tips:
- Store leftover cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you plan to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the cheesecake cups. To do so, place the cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cheesecake cups in the refrigerator overnight, then top with caramel just before serving.
By following these simple storage and serving tips, you can keep your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you’re craving a sweet, fall-inspired treat!