Description
This easy caramel apple dip recipe combines a creamy, sweet caramel base with tender, spiced apples and an optional nutty crunch. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and butter. Stir constantly until butter melts and mixture is smooth.
- Reduce heat to low; stir 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened and light caramel color. Avoid burning.
- Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and salt. Cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add cooled caramel mixture, beating on low speed until combined. Scrape down sides as needed.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, beating on low speed until light and fluffy. Do not overbeat.
- Stir in half the caramel sauce; reserve remaining for drizzling.
- Gently fold in pecans or walnuts (if using).
- In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and slightly caramelized (10-15 minutes). Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Remove from heat; cool slightly.
- Gently fold cooled apples into the caramel cream cheese mixture. Do not overmix.
- Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce.
- Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to chill and meld flavors.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter.
- Experiment with different nuts.
- Substitute other tart apples if needed.
- Add ginger or cardamom to apples for spiced flavor.
- Add apple liqueur or bourbon for a boozy twist.
- Make ahead: Prepare completely and refrigerate up to 2 days. Let come to room temperature before serving.
- For a smoother dip, briefly pulse caramelized apples in a food processor before adding to cream cheese mixture.
- Garnish with extra nuts, cinnamon, or caramel candies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: Caramel Apple Dip, Fall Dessert, Apple Dip Recipe, Cream Cheese Dip, Easy Fall Recipe, Homemade Caramel Dip, Party Dip, Autumn Appetizer, Spiced Apple Dip