Description

Sticky caramel meets creamy, tangy goodness in this easy Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip—a fall party favorite that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Crisp apple slices dipped in sweet caramel and fluffy cream cheese make for a cozy, irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best texture)
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)
1/3 cup crushed toffee bits (Heath or Skor bars)
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
Mini chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional)
4–5 crisp apples, sliced (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Gala, etc.)
Lemon juice (just a splash to keep apples from browning)

Instructions

Remove cream cheese from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until softened.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Transfer the whipped cream cheese mixture to your serving dish and spread into an even layer, about 1/2 inch thick.
Warm caramel sauce in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed (should be pourable but not hot). Pour caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer and gently spread with a spoon to cover evenly.
Sprinkle crushed toffee bits and/or chopped nuts on top. Add mini chocolate chips or sprinkles if desired. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt for a salted caramel vibe.
Core and slice apples into thin wedges. Toss slices with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange around the dip for serving.
Serve immediately or cover and chill for up to 2 hours. For firmer cream cheese, chill longer, but caramel may thicken.
If cream cheese is too stiff, add a tablespoon of milk and blend again. If caramel is too runny, chill for 15 minutes before layering. For a swirl effect, gently swirl caramel into cream cheese with a toothpick.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and a rich, buttery caramel sauce. You can make the cream cheese layer ahead and add caramel/toppings just before serving. For gluten-free, check caramel and toppings labels. Nut allergies? Skip nuts and use extra toffee or pretzels. Apples are best sliced fresh and tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning. The dip can be customized with spices, chocolate drizzle, or different crunchy toppings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 2 tablespoons dip with apple slices
Calories: 120
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 90
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 15
Fiber: 1
Protein: 2

Keywords: caramel apple dip, cream cheese dip, fall party appetizer, easy dessert dip, apple recipes, autumn snacks, Halloween party food, Thanksgiving dip