Festive Fall Treat: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip
As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, there’s nothing quite like the perfect fall dessert to bring family and friends together around the table. This heavenly Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip combines all the cozy flavors of the season—sweet caramel, fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy pecans—into one irresistible treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Picture creamy, spiced cream cheese rolled into a festive ball, then coated with rich chocolate and caramel sauce before being crowned with toasted pecans for the ultimate autumn indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a harvest party, planning a cozy movie night, or simply craving something special to celebrate the season, this show-stopping dessert pairs perfectly with crisp apple slices, graham crackers, or cookies. Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy-to-make masterpiece that captures all the magic of autumn in every single bite!
Why this caramel apple dip is so great:
- Perfect fall treat for a crowd, party, gathering, movie night, or party appetizer!
- Combines all of the best fall flavors in a super easy recipe.
- Easily double or triple the dip for a large crowd.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip
Servings: 4-8
Prep time: 10 minutes / Down time: 4 hours
Storage: Refrigerate
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated
- 3 tablespoons caramel ice cream topping, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup finely chopped chocolate
Directions
Peel and shred the apple.
Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy.
Add the shredded apple, 2 tbsp of caramel sauce, lemon juice and cinnamon. Beat until combined.
Stir in about half the chopped pecans and chocolate.
Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface, then form the mixture into a ball on top of it. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 4 hours.
Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and set on a small plate.
Combine the remaining chopped pecans and chocolate, then sprinkle over the cheeseball.
Drizzle the remaining caramel over the top.
Serve with:
- apple slices
- pear slices
- graham crackers
- wafer cookies
- vanilla wafers
- gingersnaps
- or any other firm fruit, cookie, or cracker!
FAQ
How long will this caramel apple dip keep fresh?
When stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, this cheeseball will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For best results, add the caramel drizzle and pecan coating just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for parties?
Absolutely! This cheeseball is actually better when made a day ahead, as it gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully. Prepare the cream cheese mixture and shape it into a ball, then wrap tightly and refrigerate. Add the final toppings and decorative drizzle about 30 minutes before your guests arrive.
What’s the best way to prevent the apples from browning when serving?
To keep your apple slices looking fresh and appetizing, toss them lightly with lemon juice or serve them in small batches, replenishing as needed throughout your gathering. You can also provide the cheeseball alongside graham crackers as an alternative dipping option.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, and the pecans can be replaced with chopped walnuts or even crushed graham crackers for added crunch. If you’re avoiding nuts entirely, try rolling the cheeseball in cinnamon sugar or crushed gingersnap cookies for a delicious autumn twist.
