My caramel apple dip recipe is smooth and creamy with a decadent toffee topping. Serve with apple slices, graham crackers, pretzels and more for the best snack.
I could eat this dip by the spoonful. The combination of cream cheese, caramel, toffee and more really makes this dip special. It is super easy and always a hit. It is the perfect appetizer recipe for many occasions.
If you love apples, you will also love Instant Pot apple butter recipe or these caramel apple slices.
Why this Recipe Works
We love making dessert dip recipes for game day parties, fall gatherings, or just to snack on during the week. This caramel dip is one of our favorites. You only need 5 ingredients that can easily be bought at the grocery store.
It is always a crowd favorite because of the rich and creamy layers.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese – Let it soften to room temperature so it blends smooth and creamy.
- Caramel Dip – Use a thick caramel dip, usually found near the apples in the produce section. Avoid thin caramel sauce since it will not hold its layer as well.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a light caramel flavor to the cream cheee layer.
- Cinnamon – Adds warm spice that pairs well with the apples and caramel.
- Toffee Bits – Adds a sweet crunch on top. Look for them near the chocolate chips and baking ingredients.
For the full list of ingredients and the recipe, scroll to the bottom to see the recipe card.
Substitutions and Additions
- Pumpkin Spice – If you are making this homemade caramel apple dip for your Thanksgiving meal, add in a teaspoon of pumpkin spice.
- Brown Sugar – We used light brown sugar in this recipe, but feel free to use dark brown sugar.
- Toppings – I love the crunch of the toffee bits, but you can use chocolate chips for this creamy caramel dip.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce – Use homemade caramel sauce in place of the store bought caramel dip. For the best results, use a thick caramel sauce so it stays in a layer.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dip
Follow my simple recipe to learn how you can make your own apple dip.
Step 1 – Beat the cream cheese in a medium size mixing bowl. Mix with a hand held or stand up mixer until smooth and creamy.
Step 2 – Add in the brown sugar and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.Â
Step 3 – Spread the cream cheese layer in a serving dish. You want the mixture to be approximately ½ inch thick, so choose the serving dish based on that.
Step 4 – Pour the caramel dip or sauce over the cream cheese mixture in a single layer. Then top with the toffee bits. Serve with apple slices and enjoy!Â
Recipe Tips
- Serving – If you are planning on making this dip ahead of time, allow the dip to set out for about 20 minutes to come to room temperature. This allows the dip to easily be served with your favorite dippers.
- Combining Ingredients – Use a hand mixer or a standing mixer to combine the ingredients into a smooth and creamy texture.
- Soften the cream cheese. Let it come to room temperature so the dip mixes smooth without lumps.
- Use thick caramel. A thick caramel dip works better than a thin, runny sauce.
- Add toffee last. Sprinkle it on just before serving so it stays crunchy.
Topping Ideas
Try chopped pecans or peanuts, mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. For fall parties, add seasonal sprinkles for Halloween or Thanksgiving.
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Dip
This caramel apple dip can be served with a variety of things. These are some of our favorites.
- Sliced Apples – Granny Smith apples are a great choice because their tart flavor balances the sweet caramel dip. Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples are sweeter options and work especially well for kids.
- Pretzels – Serve it with the twists or the pretzel sticks.
- Graham Crackers – The cinnamon sugar ones are the best.
- Animal Crackers – The perfect size to serve with this dip.
- Cookies – Any flavor of cookies can be served.
- Ice Cream – Drizzle it over your favorite ice cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can assemble the dip ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Wait to add the toffee bits until just before serving so they stay crunchy.
Keep sliced apples separate from the dip until serving. Freezing is not recommended because the cream cheese layer can change texture after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This apple dip will last up to 2 weeks.
Yes, if you are making this for a crowd, we recommend doubling the recipe. You can make it in a large serving platter or separate it into two pans.
Granny Smith apples are a great tart option, while Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji apples are sweeter choices.
If you prefer to slice fresh apples, they turn brown before serving. Place the apples in a bowl with a tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 cup of water. Let them soak for about 3 to 5 minutes. Then remove from water and rinse.
Yes. Cream cheese, caramel dip, and toffee bits make an easy 3 ingredient version. The brown sugar and cinnamon add extra sweetness and warm flavor but are optional.
More Easy Dip Recipes
We love hearing from you. If you make this recipe, leave us a comment.
Caramel Apple Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese
- 16 ounces Caramel Dip (or thick caramel sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup Toffee Bits
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Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the brown sugar and cinnamon and mix until fully combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture into a shallow serving dish, about ½-inch thick.
- Evenly spread the caramel dip over the cream cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the toffee bits evenly over the top.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy with fresh apple slices.
I make this without the cinnamon i. Tye cream cheese. And I add mini chocolate chops on top of the heath bits. It is always people’s favorite dip.
Julie – I’m so glad everyone loves it! Thanks for sharing your yummy variations!
Made this for a baby shower. Yum