If you’re craving a dessert that combines the cozy flavors of caramel apples, the vibrant sweetness of strawberries, and a satisfying crunchy texture, this Caramel Apple Strawberry Crunch Dessert is your ultimate treat.
It’s a showstopper that merges the warmth of baked apples, the freshness of strawberries, and the richness of caramel into one indulgent layered masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to surprise your family, this dessert offers a balanced bite of fruity goodness, creamy indulgence, and a delightful crunch in every spoonful. Easy to prepare and impossible to forget, this dish is perfect for any season but shines especially during fall and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 1/2 cup crushed pretzels (for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the fruit layer
In a bowl, combine the diced apples and chopped strawberries. Add lemon juice and granulated sugar. Mix well and set aside for 10–15 minutes to allow the fruits to release their natural juices and soften slightly.
2. Make the crunchy base
In another bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, crushed pretzels, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press half of this crunchy mixture evenly into the bottom of a serving dish or individual dessert cups.
3. Prepare the creamy layer
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and a portion of the whipped cream until smooth and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or whisk by hand until the texture becomes airy and light.
4. Assemble the layers
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over the crunchy base. Next, spoon a layer of the apple-strawberry mixture over the cream layer. Drizzle with caramel sauce to enhance the sweetness and bring out the rich fruit flavors.
5. Add more crunch
Sprinkle the remaining crunchy mixture on top of the fruit-caramel layer to add texture and depth. For an extra treat, drizzle a bit more caramel sauce on top.
6. Chill before serving
Cover and refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the layers set and allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Garnish (optional)
Just before serving, you can top the dessert with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberry or apple slices, and a final drizzle of caramel for presentation.