This dip is a bowl of cream cheese beaten smooth with powdered sugar and vanilla, then stirred with caramel sauce, diced apple and a little cinnamon. It takes 5 minutes, there is no cooking, and it makes 6 servings. You serve it right away with graham crackers, apple slices or pretzels.
Save this recipe for later:
The only equipment is a bowl and a mixer. That makes it an easy choice for a party table, where it takes less time to make than it does to set out the dippers.
What Goes in the Bowl
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): the base, and what gives the dip its thick, creamy texture.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): sweetens the cream cheese and balances the other flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): rounds out the flavor.
- Caramel sauce (1/2 cup, plus extra for drizzling): the main flavor. It adds a rich, gooey sweetness that goes with the apples.
- Diced apples (1/2 cup): Granny Smith or Honeycrisp give a crunchy texture and fresh taste.
- Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): a warm spice that gives the dip some depth.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): for crunch.
- Graham crackers, apple slices or pretzels: for dipping.
Mixing the Dip
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and mix until fully combined. Then stir in the caramel sauce, diced apples and cinnamon until they are evenly distributed.
If you are using nuts, fold them in now. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top and serve immediately.
Tips for a Smooth Dip
- Soften the cream cheese: cold cream cheese is stubborn and leaves lumps. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before you start.
- Try other apples: Fuji or Gala apples add a different sweetness and texture than Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Serve it fresh: the dip is creamiest and the apples are crunchiest right after mixing. If you need to make it ahead, refrigerate it for a short time and give it a quick stir before serving.
Equipment
A medium mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons and a serving bowl are the basics. An electric mixer saves effort, though a whisk works if you prefer. A food processor can chop the apples quickly if you would rather not dice them by hand.
Ways to Change It
- Greek yogurt: use it in place of the cream cheese for a lighter dip with a tangy flavor. The card suggests cutting the powdered sugar to 1/4 cup in that case.
- Mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut: stir either in. The coconut adds a chewy texture.
- Different nuts, or none: almonds or cashews work. Leave the nuts out for a nut-free dip if anyone has an allergy.
- Warm spices: a pinch of nutmeg or allspice suits fall gatherings and holidays.
What to Serve With It
Graham crackers, apple slices and pretzels are the dippers in the recipe. Sliced strawberries or pears are also good, since their juicy sweetness contrasts with the creamy dip. Crackers or chips add a savory crunch against the sweetness.
For drinks, sparkling water with lemon or lime clears the palate between bites, and herbal tea or coffee suits a quieter evening.
Nutrition per Serving
One serving has about 180 calories, 8 grams of fat (4 grams saturated), 22 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 10 grams of sugar, 2 grams of protein and 150 milligrams of sodium.
FAQ
Can I make the dip ahead of time?
Yes, but it is best served fresh. The texture and the crunch of the apples are at their best right after mixing.
What can replace the cream cheese?
Greek yogurt. It keeps the dip creamy and adds a tangy flavor.
How long does the dip last in the fridge?
Up to 2 days in an airtight container. Stir it quickly before serving to refresh the texture.
The Foodie Yummy Cookbook
12 reader-favorite recipes in one printable PDF. Enter your email and download it instantly.
Made it or loved it? Share this recipe
Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip – 5 Minute Party Favorite is a must-try!
Ingredients
Instructions
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, and mix until fully combined.
Stir in the caramel sauce, diced apples, and cinnamon until evenly distributed.
If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for garnish.
Serve immediately with graham crackers, apple slices, or pretzels for dipping.
Notes
For a healthier twist, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt and reduce the powdered sugar to 1/4 cup.
Experiment with different toppings like mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 calories |
| Sugar Content | 10g |
| Sodium Content | 150mg |
| Fat Content | 8g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 4g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 0g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 22g |
| Fiber Content | 1g |
| Protein Content | 2g |
| Cholesterol Content | 30mg |