Creamy Caramel Apple Dip: A Fall Favorite (Print Version)
Caramel Apple Dip is a sweet, creamy treat. Learn how to make this delightful fall dip with a personal touch and easy steps for your next gathering.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8-10 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Creamy Base
01 -
8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened
02 -
1/2 cup powdered sugar
03 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 -
1-2 tablespoons whole milk
→ Caramel Layer
05 -
10-12 oz soft caramels (individually wrapped)
06 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ For Dipping & Topping
07 -
4-5 crisp apples (like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji), sliced
08 -
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, pull that cream cheese out of the fridge a bit early. Seriously, room temperature cream cheese is a game-changer; it whips up so much smoother. I remember trying to rush it once, and my dip had these little cream cheese lumps, which, honestly, isn't the vibe we're going for with a creamy Caramel Apple Dip.
02 -
In a medium bowl, beat that softened cream cheese until it's light and fluffy. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it's all smooth and no lumps remain. Stir in the vanilla extract and that splash of milk. You want it to be spreadable but still thick enough to hold its own. This is the foundation of our Caramel Apple Dip, so make it good!
03 -
Now for the caramel! Unwrap those soft caramels – I swear this part always makes me feel like a kid again. Pop them in a microwave-safe bowl with the butter. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s all melted and gloriously smooth. Watch it closely though; burnt caramel is just sad, and I've had that unfortunate experience before, ugh.
04 -
Spread the creamy cream cheese mixture evenly in a shallow serving dish. Then, carefully pour that warm, luscious caramel right over the top. Use a spoon or a small offset spatula to gently spread it out, making sure it covers the cream cheese layer nicely. The smell at this stage? Divine, honestly!
05 -
If you're using them, sprinkle those chopped peanuts (or whatever nuts you fancy) over the caramel layer. This adds texture and a little salty kick, which, to be real, really makes the Caramel Apple Dip pop. I didn't expect that the first time I added nuts, but now I'm hooked!
06 -
Pop your Caramel Apple Dip into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the layers set a bit and the flavors meld. While it's chilling, slice up your apples – I like mine in wedges. When it's ready, pull it out, arrange those apple slices around it, and get ready for some serious dipping action!
# Notes:
01 -
Always use room temperature cream cheese for a lump-free dip, it makes a huge difference.
02 -
Store leftover dip covered in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; the caramel might firm up a bit, just let it sit at room temp for 15 mins before serving.
03 -
Tried using pre-made caramel sauce once, and it was okay, but the melted soft caramels give a much richer, thicker texture, honestly.
04 -
Serve this Caramel Apple Dip with a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance, and maybe some graham crackers too!
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Mixing bowls
02 -
electric mixer (handheld or stand)
03 -
microwave-safe bowl
04 -
serving dish
05 -
sharp knife
06 -
cutting board
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: Approx. 250-300 per serving (estimated)
Total Fat: Approx. 15-20g (estimated)
Total Carbohydrate: Approx. 30-40g (estimated)
Protein: Approx. 3-5g (estimated)