Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Dip

Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Dip makes for a tasty fall appetizer with a smooth caramel sauce that pairs just right with the tanginess of cream cheese and the crunch of apple slices.

I think this dip is perfect for any occasion. Seriously. No matter when you put it on the table, it will get devoured. It’s a great party appetizer, especially for fall or autumn parties, Halloween parties, or game night get together.

The first time I made it was for a family apple press party, and now my kids ask for it all the time. The best part is, it doesn’t need much prep, so you can whip up a batch in no time!

These flavors go so well together. If you love the caramel and apple combination as much as we do you will love these caramel apple cupcakes and salted caramel apple crisp.

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dip is a breeze to whip up for impromptu gatherings or snack time.
• Satisfying Crunch: The addition of chopped peanuts provides a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the dip perfectly.
• Customizable Appeal: Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this recipe. Experiment with different types of caramel sauce, vary the amount of peanuts for added crunch, or try pairing it with different fruits for a unique flavor experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Caramel Sauce – You can make your own caramel sauce with sweetened condensed milk or use a store-bought version. There are many brands you can use for this. I like Ghirardelli caramel sauce the best. It also comes in Sea Salt Caramel. Hershey’s Caramel & Nestle Carnation caramel sauce are easy to find. Caramel dip by Marzetti can be found in the produce aisle at most grocery stores.
• Apples – I prefer to use granny smith apples for this dip because they are firm and crisp and not too sweet. You can use your apple of choice, or maybe use a few different kinds to see which you like best.
• Cream Cheese – A block of Philadelphia cream cheese is perfect. I don’t really think it’s wise to use the low-fat version, however. It’s not as creamy and for me it’s just not very good.
• Chopped Nuts – I use walnuts and sometimes I even go toast them first for that extra bit of delicious crunch. You can use peanuts, pecans, pistachio – really any type of nut you like. To go extra decadent, try using toffee bits. Oh man.
• Water & Lemon Juice – This is to keep the apples from oxidizing and turning brown. If you’re going to serve it right away, it’s not strictly necessary.

Equipment Needed

• Cutting board
• Paring knife
• Large bowl
• Serving dish

Helpful Tips

• The lemon juice bath will keep the apples from turning brown from oxidation.

Variations

This dip is great just as it is but think of all the possibilities!

• Top this dip with mixed nuts, chopped peanuts, pistachios, or slivered almonds.
• For a different crunch sprinkle the top with toffee bits.
• Instead of caramel sauce try drizzling marshmallow crème, peanut butter, or chocolate syrup over the top

Can It Be Made Ahead?

This apple dip is so easy to make that it’s not really necessary to make it ahead. The most tedious part of the operation that you might want to get out of the way early is cutting the apples. If you cut the apples ahead, be sure to store them in a water/lemon bath to keep them from turning brown.

If you top the cream cheese with the caramel sauce in advance, you might find that it gets watery. That’s not the best way to serve it. So I recommend putting it together right before you serve it.

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