Caramel Apple Dip

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Indulge in the classic flavors of fall with a twist! Caramel Apple Dip transforms the nostalgic taste of caramel-coated apples into a creamy, shareable treat.

This dip offers a harmonious blend of sweet caramel and tangy apples, perfect for gatherings or a simple snack. Whether you’re enjoying it with crunchy apple slices or other delightful dippers, this recipe brings a touch of warmth to any occasion.

What’s in caramel apple dip?

To whip up the classic caramel-apple flavor combination in dip form, you’ll need to collect the following ingredients:

• Cream cheese – Used to form the creamy base of the dip.
• Powdered sugar – Add a touch of sweetness to the cream cheese. Feel free to add more or less sugar to your tastes.
• Caramel dip – The star of the show! This is poured on the cream cheese layer to create this two-layer dip. You can also use a homemade caramel dip.
• Toffee bits – A delicious blend of toffee, almonds, and chocolate, these bits of candy add a nice crunch to the dip. You can also omit this topping if you’d like.
• Apples – Because caramel apple dip is just not complete without some sliced apples.

What type of caramel sauce should you use?

The best type of caramel to use is the thick caramel dip typically found in the produce section of most grocery stores. If you’re unable to find it, caramel ice cream topping is a close alternative.

It’s crucial to mention that I advise against using melted caramel candies for this dip. Many caramels, once cooled, turn thick and stiff, similar to the coating on a caramel apple. This isn’t ideal for a dip, as it would form a hard layer over the cream cheese, making it difficult for apples to dip into.

What type of apples should you use?

While any apple will do, it’s best to use slightly sour and tart green apples to balance out the sweetness of the caramel. Granny Smith apples are the best fit.

How do you keep apples from browning?

This dip is best served with fresh apples for dipping, and if you plan on leaving this dip out for your guests, you’ll be faced with a common problem:

How do you keep cut apples from turning brown?

You can do this in a couple of different ways, and I’ve listed my favorites below. Some of these may impact the taste of the fruit, but it should be very minor. It’s a small price to keep your painstakingly sliced fruit from looking unappetizing. Because, really, what does a hint of flavor matter if no one eats them at all? It’s better to have a good presentation so no one hesitates to enjoy the dip.

• Choose Varieties that Brown Less: If you’d like to limit browning altogether, some varieties of apples naturally brown less quickly than others, such as Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, and Cortland.
• Keep Slices Submerged: After cutting, submerge the apple slices in a bowl of cold water until you’re ready to use or serve them.
• Soak in Lemon Juice:
  • Add sliced apples to a large bowl.
  • Pour anywhere from 1/3 cup to 1/2 cup lemon juice over apples, then toss to coat.
  • Let them sit for three to six minutes, then drain and store.
• Soak in Lemon Water:
  • Mix 1 part lemon juice with 3 parts water in a large bowl.
  • Add apple slices to the bowl, submerging them in the lemon water solution.
  • Let them sit for three to six minutes, then drain, rinse, and store.
• Soak in Salt Water:
  • Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in four cups of water.
  • Soak the apple slices in salt water for about five minutes.
  • Drain the slices and rinse them under cool water to remove any salty taste.
• Soak in Honey Water:
  • Mix two tablespoons of honey with one cup of water.
  • Add apple slices to the bowl, submerging them in the honey water solution.
  • Let them soak for 30 seconds, then drain and store.
• Soak in Club Soda:
  • Add apple slices to a large bowl and submerge in club soda.
  • Let them sit for three to six minutes, then drain, rinse, and store.

Can you make this dip in advance?

Yes, you can, but with a catch – I’d recommend only preparing the cream cheese layer. Wait to add the caramel and toffee bit toppings until you’re ready to serve the dip.

To ensure the best presentation, the cream cheese layer can be made and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to serve, let the dip sit on the counter for 30 minutes so the cream cheese can soften, then finish preparing it as directed.

How long is it good for?

Once prepared, this dip can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three to five days.

Can you freeze it?

Due to the cream cheese in this recipe, I cannot recommend freezing this dip. The freezing and thawing process causes the texture of cream cheese to change, and in most cases, it will ruin the smooth creaminess of this dip.

How long can you leave out a dessert dip?

Dips are designed to be a “serve it and forget it” type of snack, but be sure you’re also following food safety guidelines.

For most foods, the general rule of thumb is that a perishable item should not be in the “danger zone” for more than two hours. And by “danger zone,” this is usually at or just above room temperature. This dip will be served at about room temperature, which should give you a maximum of two hours to leave it out, depending on any outside factors, such as the room’s temperature.

As the party goes on, you can return the dip to the refrigerator once you get past the two-hour mark. If your guests still want more dip, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before bringing it back out again.

Want to dig deeper into food safety? Take a look at the USDA’s Food Safety Basics, especially the part about the above-mentioned “danger zone.”

Notes & Tips for caramel apple dip

• This dip forms two slim layers, each about 1/2 to 3/4 inches deep, spread over a broad surface. While an 8×8 baking dish usually works, its sides, ranging from three to five inches tall, might make the dip seem “shallow” in contrast. I lean towards using 8- or 9-inch pie pans for a better visual. They offer the desired depth and surface area, ensuring a more appealing presentation.
•  If you can’t find toffee bits in-store, you can shop for them online.
•  As an alternative to toffee bits, try crushed and crumbled Heath bars. This will give the dip a combination of toffee, chocolate, and almonds.
•  If toffee bits are not your thing, try garnishing the dip with other types of candy like M&M’s or crumbled Snickers. You can also keep it simple with chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, festive sprinkles, or chopped pecans.
•  This dip is designed to be served with apples, but if you’re looking for other alternatives, give pears, graham crackers, pretzels, or vanilla wafers a try.
• I’ve made this dip with both old-fashioned and low-fat caramel dip and found both delicious and flavorful; I never would have known the difference had I not made the dip myself.

More delicious dessert dips

Other great recipes with apples

How to make caramel apple dip

Step 1 – Combine cream cheese and powdered sugar in a stand mixer, or a hand mixer paired with a sizable bowl. Mix on medium-high to achieve a blended and smooth consistency.

Step 2 – Once mixed, transfer the creamy blend into a 9-inch pie pan or any similar low, wide dish, spreading evenly.

Step 3 – Then, layer on the caramel, ensuring it covers the cream cheese base. For a finishing touch, sprinkle toffee bits over the caramel.

Step 4 – Serve and enjoy!