My Apple Caramel Cheesecake Dip might just be the easiest (and most irresistible) dessert you'll ever make! It's sweet, creamy, and crunchy all at once! It tastes like a caramel apple and a cheesecake had the most delicious baby! It's the perfect fall treat for gatherings, game days, or when you just want something quick and impressive. Every time I make it, it's a huge hit!
The creamy cheesecake layer pairs perfectly with rich caramel sauce and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. It tastes like something you'd find at a fair or your favorite bakery, but it comes together in minutes,no baking required!
Serve this apple caramel cheesecake dip on a dessert board with fresh fruit, cookies, and graham crackers. It's the kind of simple dip that disappears fast, especially when fall rolls around and everyone's craving caramel apples and cozy treats!
If you love this recipe and you're looking for some more appetizers, you will love my apple and brie crescent rolls, my healthy sausage balls, and my 3 ingredient boursin fig dip!
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Ingredients
- Philadelphia no bake cheesecake: This makes up the creamy, tangy base! No oven needed, just instant cheesecake flavor!
- Caramel sauce: Use store-bought caramel topping for convenience, or try making your own date caramel for a healthier twist. I like this 4 ingredient date caramel from Eating Bird Food.
- Crushed peanuts: Add the perfect crunch without extra sweetness, they balance the caramel apple vibes beautifully.
- Optional toppings: toffee bits and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for a deluxe version!
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Spread the no bake cheesecake evenly into your serving dish, creating a smooth base layer.
- Step 2: Spoon the caramel sauce (or homemade date caramel sauce) over the top to create a luscious caramel layer.
- Step 3: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts for texture and that satisfying crunch.
- Step 4: Chill for about 15 minutes (if you can wait!) to help the layers set. Serve with your favorite dippers and enjoy!
What to dip
This dessert dip is the star of any snack spread! Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:
- Apple slices (Granny Smith apples are perfect for that tart balance!)
- Vanilla wafers
- Graham crackers
- Pretzels (sweet and salty perfection)
- Strawberries or sliced pears
- Biscotti or shortbread cookies
- Mini rice cakes for a lighter option
Hint: Soak your apples in some salt water for 15 minutes, rinse and serve to prevent from browning. I do 1 teaspoon salt per 1 apple. Alternatively, you can add some lemon juice as well!
Substitutions and Dietary Swaps
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices for dipping. Check the caramel sauce you use to make sure the ingredients are gluten-free as some foods use added fillers that contain gluten.
- Nut-Free: Skip the peanuts and top with crushed graham cracker crumbs or toffee bits for crunch without nuts.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly! Just double-check your caramel sauce or date caramel for gelatin-free ingredients.
- Peanuts: Use toffee bits instead of peanuts for some added crunch.
Variations
- Add a Cool Whip layer: Mix cool whip into the cheesecake for an extra light and fluffy dip.
- Make it a pie: Spread the same layers into a pie crust and refrigerate for a no-bake caramel cheesecake pie.
- Swap the caramel: Use brown sugar and butter to make your own quick caramel topping if you're feeling fancy.
Equipment
All you need to make this apple caramel cheesecake dip is a:
- Serving dish or shallow bowl
- Rubber spatula for spreading layers
- Small food processor (if making homemade date caramel)
- Plastic wrap for covering leftovers
- Sharp knife for slicing apples
Storage
If you have leftover dip (which rarely happens!), cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also transfer to an air-tight container. Stir gently before serving again. The caramel layer may firm up slightly in the fridge, but it softens nicely at room temperature.
Christina's Dietitian Tip
This dessert dip is certainly not the healthiest option but it is very delicious! I used peanuts instead of toffee bits to add some healthy fats and crunch without the added sugar. While this is not a health food, you can definitely balance it a little bit by making your own date caramel sauce and using fruits as your dipping vessel for some added fiber! The best tip here is to portion control and enjoy this as part of a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats and tons of fiber!
FAQ
Yes! Prepare the layers up to a day in advance, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.
Definitely! Toffee bits add extra sweetness and crunch, but peanuts balance the caramel flavor with a little saltiness.
Granny Smith apples are a great option because their tartness balances the sweet caramel cheesecake dip perfectly.
Freezing isn't recommended because the texture of the cheesecake base and caramel layer won't hold up well once thawed.
Appetizers
Looking for other easy appetizer recipes like this? Try these:
Jump to: Recipe
Easy 3 Ingredient Apple Caramel Dip
Equipment
- Serving dish or shallow bowl
- Rubber spatula for spreading layers
- Small food processor (if making homemade date caramel)
- Plastic wrap for covering leftovers
- Sharp knife for slicing apples
Ingredients
- 1 Tub 24.3 ounces Philadelphia no bake cheesecake
- ⅓-1/2 cup Caramel sauce: try making your own date caramel for a healthier twist.
- ¼-1/3 cup Crushed peanuts
- Optional toppings: a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or toffee bits
Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:
- Apple slices (Granny Smith apples are perfect for that tart balance!)
- Vanilla wafers
- Graham crackers
- Pretzels (sweet and salty perfection)
- Strawberries or sliced pears
- Biscotti or shortbread cookies
- Mini rice cakes
Instructions
- Spread the no bake cheesecake evenly into your serving dish, creating a smooth base layer.
- Spoon the caramel dip (or homemade caramel sauce) over the top to create a luscious caramel layer.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts for texture and that satisfying crunch.
- Chill for about 15 minutes (if you can wait!) to help the layers set. Serve with your favorite dippers and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
This Apple Caramel Cheesecake Dip is creamy, dreamy, and addictive! It's the kind of dessert dip that makes you the star of the party without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering, family movie night, or a casual get-together, this easy caramel cheesecake dip is always a crowd-pleaser!
Food Safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
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