This easy caramel apple dip recipe is the best way to get the delicious flavor of caramel apples we all love but without all the mess. It’s definitely easier to eat too!
Caramel Apple Dip Recipe
It’s apple season and what better way to celebrate than with a creamy caramel apple dip?!?
No wonder this is such a huge hit when I make it. Who can resist crisp, tart apples dipped in a creamy dip? I know I can’t!
Fall is the time for cooler weather, camp fires, fluffy sweaters, and cozy gatherings with friends and family. And you can bet that this dip, being such a crowd pleaser, will be front and center. It is at my house.
Made with a handful of ingredients, it’s the perfect snack or dessert to whip up at a moment’s notice. My favorite way to enjoy it is with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt! I can’t resist a sweet and salty treat.
If you love apples as much as I do, check out my other apple recipes like: DIY Caramel Apple Bar, Caramel Apple Nachos, Caramel Apple Empanadas, and Apple Pie Salsa.
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Ingredients Needed
Cream cheese – Regular, low fat, or fat free work just fine.
Brown sugar – Light brown sugar. Dark brown sugar also works in a pinch.
Caramel dip – Store-bought is the easiest to heat and use.
Toffee bits – Use a crushed Heath bar or toffee bits.
Vanilla extract – Regular extract or vanilla bean paste will work.
Apples – A colorful mixture of red and green apples. Granny Smith apples are my favorite!
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How To Make Caramel Apple Dip
First: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Second: Spread the cream cheese in an even layer in the bottom of a serving bowl.
Third: Heat caramel dip according the the package and pour over cream cheese layer. Spread to cover it as best you can.
Fourth: Top the caramel layer with candy bar bits or crushed toffee and serve with fresh apple slices.
For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Dipping Options
- Any kind of apple
- Vanilla wafers
- Oreo cookies
- Fresh fruit (Strawberries, Pears, Grapes)
- Pretzels
- Biscotti
- Graham crackers
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s an easy appetizer so I don’t really make it ahead of time. But you can make the cream cheese mixture up to 3 days in advance.
Store separately and then assemble the caramel apple dip when ready.
How long does it last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze this, but the texture might change slightly so it’s not my favorite option.
How do I keep my apple from turning brown?
When slicing the apples, keep a bowl of water with a little lemon juice nearby. Add the sliced apples to the lemon water.
Continue to slice the apples until done. Remove and pat them dry before serving them with the dip.
What is the best store-bought dip for apples?
I find that this one is the most popular and can find it in the produce section of most grocery stores year round.
Are apples and caramel dip a healthy snack?
Because of the sugar in the toffee apple dip, I would say the apples are healthier on their own, but if the kids need some encouragement, the dip helps. Peanut butter also works:)
Tapas Tips & Tricks
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for cream cheese to get it smooth.
- Serve it cold or right after heating caramel dip for a hot/cold bite.
- Substitute Heath bars, Heath bits, or a SKOR bar for a crushed heath bar.
- Top with chocolate chips or sprinkles for more color.
- Add some of this Roasted Pecans Recipe, chopped walnuts, or slivered almonds.
- Use a 8×8 baking dish or 9 inch pie plate.
- Double the recipe and use a 9×13 casserole dish for a crowd.
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This cream cheese caramel apple dip is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or a fun after school snack!
Caramel Apple Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 oz block of cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 oz store bought caramel dipping sauce
- 1/2 cup toffee bits or crushed Heath bars
- Granny smith apples for dipping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Mix until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese in an even layer in the bottom of a serving bowl.
- Heat caramel dip according the the package and pour over cream cheese layer.
- Spread to cover it as best you can.
- Top the caramel layer with candy bar bits or crushed toffee and serve with fresh apple slices.
Notes
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for cream cheese to get it smooth.
- Serve it cold or right after heating caramel dip for a hot/cold bite.
- Substitute Heath bars, Heath bits, or a SKOR bar for a crushed heath bar.
- Top with chocolate chips or sprinkles for more color.
- Add toasted pecans, chopped walnuts, or slivered almonds.
- Use a 8×8 baking dish or 9 inch pie plate.
- Double the recipe and use a 9×13 casserole dish for a crowd.
Nutrition
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