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Creamy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Parfaits

caramel apple cheesecake parfaits - featured image

These easy dessert cups feature layers of creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-sautéed apples, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and rich caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings, they come together quickly and deliver nostalgic comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cinnamon graham crackers, crushed (about 8 squares)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Extra caramel drizzle (optional)
  • Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Apple slices for decoration (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and dice the apples.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until apples are soft but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin.
  5. Mix crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter in a bowl until evenly combined.
  6. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  7. Add Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and lump-free.
  8. Set out 4-6 dessert cups or parfait glasses (8-ounce size).
  9. Spoon 2 tablespoons graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each cup and press lightly.
  10. Add 2-3 tablespoons of cheesecake mixture over the crumbs and smooth.
  11. Top with 2 tablespoons of cooled sautéed apples.
  12. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon caramel sauce.
  13. Repeat layers if desired, finishing with apples and caramel.
  14. Top each parfait with whipped cream, extra caramel, and chopped nuts or apple slices if desired.
  15. Refrigerate parfaits for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, use firm apples and full-fat dairy. Chill parfaits for at least 1 hour for flavors to meld. Make ahead up to 24 hours; add whipped cream and nuts just before serving. Use gluten-free graham crackers for a GF version, and plant-based dairy for vegan adaptation. If apples are extra juicy, drain before layering to avoid soggy crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple parfaits, cheesecake parfaits, fall dessert cups, easy apple dessert, no bake parfait, autumn dessert, apple cheesecake cups