Ultimate Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip is an easy-to-make dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, comforting flavors of caramel and crisp apples. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to celebrate the fall season.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- serving bowl
- Spatula
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 2-3 medium apples, such as Honeycrisp or Gala, cored and diced
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts, cinnamon, chocolate chips
- Apple slices, graham crackers, pretzels, vanilla wafers, or cinnamon pita chips for serving
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese. Place the cream cheese in a mixing bowl and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s completely softened. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free dip!
- Beat the cream cheese and sugars. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the softened cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla and caramel. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of caramel sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the apples. Add the diced apples to the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold them in with a spatula until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the apples release their juices and make the dip watery.
- Chill the dip. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dip to thicken slightly.
- Serve and enjoy! Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts, cinnamon, or chocolate chips, if desired. Serve with apple slices, graham crackers, pretzels, or your favorite dippers.
Notes
For the best flavor, use high-quality caramel sauce. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the dip. This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days, but the apples may release some juice. For a richer flavor, use a combination of salted and unsalted caramel sauce.