Caramel Apple Trifles

If you are looking for a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crispness of apples, look no further than Caramel Apple Trifles. This layered dessert not only looks stunning but also packs a punch of flavor in every spoonful. Perfect for gatherings, it is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Trifles are an easy and fun way to enjoy a classic flavor combination. The layers of creamy caramel, spiced apples, and crunchy granola create a delicious contrast in texture. This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on your taste or the season. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, making it a stress-free addition to any meal!

How to Make Caramel Apple Trifles

Ingredients:

1 cup (207g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) water
1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
1/2 to 1 tsp salt
3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
2 tsp lemon juice
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
4 tbsp (56g) packed brown sugar
1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup (58g) powdered sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup cinnamon granola (store-bought or homemade)

Directions:

Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves (3-5 minutes). Add the butter and let it melt. Increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil. Stop stirring and allow it to boil until it turns a deep golden color (10-15 minutes). Occasionally swirl the pan to ensure even cooking. Remove from heat and slowly add the heavy cream while whisking. Be cautious, as it will bubble up. Stir in vanilla extract and salt to taste. Allow caramel to cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Cinnamon Apples: In a medium pan, combine apples, lemon juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir well and cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes until the apples soften. Let cool.
Make the Cinnamon Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Trifles: Add a layer of whipped cream to the bottom of 4 serving glasses or jars. Add about 2 tablespoons of granola evenly over the whipped cream. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce over the granola. Spoon 2 tablespoons of cinnamon apples over the caramel. Repeat the layers once more. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top. For best flavor, let the trifles set in the fridge for 2-3 hours before serving.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Trifles

Serve your Caramel Apple Trifles chilled, either straight from the refrigerator or at room temperature. They make a lovely presentation in clear glasses or jars, showcasing the beautiful layers. For an extra touch, top with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Caramel Apple Trifles

Store any leftover Caramel Apple Trifles in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh. However, keep in mind that the granola may lose its crunch over time.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Trifles

Make your caramel sauce ahead of time to save on prep. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Feel free to use different apple varieties for a unique flavor.
If you want to cut down on sugar, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the cinnamon apples.

Variation

For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers. You can also substitute the granola with crushed cookies or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or almond milk for the whipped cream.

2. How can I make the caramel sauce vegan?
You can use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream and use a plant-based butter substitute.

3. What types of apples work best for this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are great for their tart flavor, but you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter taste.