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+ servings
Close-up of two jars filled with Caramel Apple Trifle Layers, topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

Caramel Apple Trifle

This Caramel Apple Trifle is a delightful layered dessert featuring spiced apples, homemade caramel sauce, cinnamon whipped cream, and crunchy granola. It's perfect for fall gatherings and can be made ahead.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4 trifles
Course: Dessert

Ingredients
  

Caramel Sauce
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt to 1 tsp, adjust to taste
Cinnamon Apples
  • 3 Granny Smith apples peeled and diced
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp packed brown sugar
Cinnamon Whipped Cream and Granola
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup Cinnamon Granola store-bought or homemade

Equipment

  • medium to large saucepan
  • medium pan
  • large mixer bowl
  • Whisk
  • 4 cups or jars

Method
 

  1. To make the caramel sauce, combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook until sugar dissolves, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Add butter and melt. Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir to prevent crystallization. Boil until the mixture turns a deep golden copper color, about 10-15 minutes. You can tip the pan occasionally for even cooking.
  3. Remove from heat and slowly stream in heavy whipping cream while whisking quickly until combined. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble.
  4. Whisk in vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add more salt if desired.
  5. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.
  6. For the cinnamon apples, combine diced apples, lemon juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a medium pan. Toss to coat.
  7. Cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until apples reach your preferred softness. Let cool for 10-15 minutes.
  8. For the cinnamon whipped cream, add heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon to a large mixer bowl. Whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  9. To assemble the trifles, add an even layer of whipped cream to the bottom of each cup or jar.
  10. Top with about 2 tablespoons of granola.
  11. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce over the granola.
  12. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of apples over the caramel.
  13. Repeat the layers once more. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of each trifle.
  14. For best flavor and texture, chill the trifles in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.

Notes

Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and are best consumed within 1-2 days. The caramel sauce can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. You can substitute store-bought caramel sauce if preferred.

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