Caramel Apple Trifles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Apple Trifles are the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crisp, tart apples are cooked down into a sweet and spiced filling, while the cake and Cool Whip add lightness and creaminess to the dish. The caramel sauce brings everything together with its rich sweetness, making each bite feel like a celebration. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, looks gorgeous in individual glasses, and satisfies that craving for something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients

• 3 Granny Smith apples
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 12 ounces pound cake (you could also use any cake you prefer – white, angel food, etc.)
• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 6 tablespoons caramel sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Peel, core, and chop the Granny Smith apples into small cubes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let the apple mixture cool slightly.
3. While the apples are cooling, slice the pound cake into small cubes.
4. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the ingredients starting with a spoonful of the caramelized apples at the bottom.
5. Add a layer of cake cubes on top of the apples.
6. Follow with a layer of Cool Whip.
7. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
8. Garnish with additional cinnamon or whipped cream if desired.
9. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to an hour for extra flavor melding.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: Add a crunchy topping of chopped pecans or walnuts for an added texture and flavor.
• Other fruits: You can substitute the Granny Smith apples with other apples, pears, or berries for a different twist.
• Cake alternatives: Try angel food cake, sponge cake, or even a gingerbread cake for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegan version: Use a dairy-free cake, coconut whipped cream, and vegan caramel sauce to make this dessert vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

These trifles are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the cake from becoming soggy, it’s best to store the components separately and assemble them just before serving. The caramel sauce can also be stored in a separate container for up to a week.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala, but Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the caramel and cake.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the apple filling and cake layers ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the trifles just before serving to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

3. Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce will add even more richness and flavor to the trifles.

4. Can I make these trifles without Cool Whip?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream or mascarpone cheese for a slightly different texture and taste.

5. Can I use a different cake for this recipe?

Yes, you can use white cake, sponge cake, or even angel food cake as a substitute for the pound cake, depending on your preferences.

6. How do I prevent the apples from turning brown before cooking?

Toss the chopped apples with lemon juice right after peeling and coring to prevent browning.

7. Can I make these trifles without caramel sauce?

Yes, you can skip the caramel sauce, but it adds a key sweet and rich element to the dessert. Alternatively, you could use butterscotch sauce or chocolate sauce as a topping.

8. Can I add some extra spices to the apple filling?

Yes, adding a little ginger or cloves can give the apple filling a more complex, spiced flavor.

9. Can I use a different topping instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or even ice cream as a topping if you prefer something different.

10. Can I serve these trifles in larger bowls or is individual serving better?

While individual servings are traditionally better for trifles, you can certainly assemble the dessert in a large bowl and serve family-style if you prefer.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Trifles are an indulgent and festive dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples and the richness of cake and Cool Whip. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to holiday celebrations. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!

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