Description
Homemade apple pie dip brings classic American dessert flavors into a delightful shareable appetizer. Sweet cinnamon-spiced apples mingle with creamy cream cheese, offering a delectable twist you can scoop up with graham crackers or crisp cookies.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits:
- 4 large apples (2 Granny Smith, 2 Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
Sweeteners and Spices:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Cooking Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water (for slurry)
Instructions
- Carefully prepare the apples by removing the skin, extracting the core, and transforming them into delicate, uniform cubes that will ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dip.
- Protect the apple pieces from oxidation by generously coating them with freshly squeezed lemon juice, which will maintain their pristine appearance and prevent unsightly browning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the zesty lemon-kissed apple chunks with warm brown sugar, creating a foundation of sweet caramelization that will enhance the natural fruit flavors.
- Sprinkle a harmonious blend of ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the apple mixture, allowing the aromatic spices to infuse depth and warmth into the dip’s profile.
- Gently fold in softened cream cheese, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency that will bind the ingredients together while providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty undertone that complements the apple’s natural sweetness.
- Transfer the mixture into a serving dish, smoothing the top to create an inviting presentation that beckons guests to indulge.
- Refrigerate the dip for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more complex and satisfying taste experience.
- Before serving, garnish with a light dusting of additional cinnamon and a sprinkle of chopped nuts to elevate the visual appeal and provide an extra layer of texture.
Notes
- Prevent apple browning by using fresh lemon juice, which adds a bright tangy flavor while keeping the fruit looking fresh and appetizing.
- Dice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dip, creating a perfect bite every time.
- Consider using a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
- Chill the dip before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop a richer, more intense taste that will make guests want to dive right in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg