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Caramel Apple Dessert Cups with Golden Spice Chocolate and Coconut Crunch Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a delicious copycat version of the popular Zupas treat, featuring fresh Gala apples coated in a luscious golden spice chocolate or milk chocolate caramel sauce, topped with a crunchy coconut and brown sugar topping and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Perfectly balanced and easy to assemble, these cups make a delightful dessert or party snack.

Ingredients

Apples

  • 4 Gala apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 cups room-temperature water

Golden Spice Chocolate Sauce

  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • 6 soft Werther’s caramels, unwrapped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

Chocolate Duo Sauce

  • 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
  • 10 soft Werther’s caramels, unwrapped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

Coconut Crunch Topping

  • 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar

Toppings

  • Coconut crunch (prepared above)
  • Ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare Apples: In a large bowl, dissolve 1 1/2 teaspoons salt in 3 cups of room-temperature water. Soak the thinly sliced Gala apples in the salted water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drain the apples using a colander, rinse under cold water, then shake off any excess moisture. Pat the apples completely dry with a towel to ensure the sauce adheres well.
  2. Make Coconut Crunch: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the sweetened coconut flakes in a thin, even layer. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the coconut and gently toss to coat. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even toasting. Watch carefully near the end to avoid burning. Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let cool completely; the coconut will crisp as it cools. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
  3. Prepare Golden Spice Chocolate Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, unwrapped caramels, and a pinch of salt. Heat 1/4 cup of heavy cream in a glass measuring cup until very hot, about 50 seconds in the microwave. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and caramel mixture, cover the bowl with a plate, and let stand for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and fully melted. If needed, microwave in 15-second increments, stirring after each until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat or scorch.
  4. Assemble Golden Spice Dessert Cups: Divide the prepared apple slices evenly among 9-ounce clear cups. Drizzle or spoon the golden spice chocolate sauce generously over the apples. Top each cup with the coconut crunch topping and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
  5. Make and Assemble Chocolate Duo Cups: Repeat the preparation process of the sauce using the milk chocolate chips, unwrapped caramel candies, heavy cream, and salt. Stir until smooth and melted. Layer apple slices in cups, drizzle the chocolate duo sauce on top, finish with coconut crunch, and serve immediately.
  6. Party Serving Option: To serve these dessert cups in a party or buffet style, fill a 6-quart Crock-Pot halfway with water and set it to high heat. Place the prepared sauces in wide-mouth mason jars, making sure the water does not enter the jars. Keep the sauces warm by stirring occasionally and adding water as needed. Arrange the sliced apples in a platter next to the jars and allow guests to build their own cups.

Notes

  • The quantity of apples can be adjusted depending on how much sauce coverage you prefer; more apples for lighter coating, fewer apples for heavier sauce.
  • Gala apples are recommended for their sweetness and crisp texture, but any crisp, sweet apple variety will work well.
  • Use high-quality chocolate chips and soft Werther’s caramels for the smoothest melts and best flavor; lower quality ingredients may seize or melt inconsistently.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed fresh after assembling to maintain coconut crunchiness and optimal texture.
  • The coconut crunch topping can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/caramel-apple-dessert-cups-with-golden-spice-chocolate-and-coconut-crunch-recipe/