Caramel Apple Dip (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dip Basics

01 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened and ready to use
02 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure
04 - 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
05 - 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus a bit extra for topping

→ Extra Decorations

06 - A pinch of ground cinnamon to sprinkle
07 - Extra caramel for drizzling, if desired

→ Serving Suggestions (pick a mix)

08 - Crisp apple slices (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith work great)
09 - Graham crackers broken into smaller bits
10 - Twisted or rod-shaped pretzels
11 - Vanilla wafers or butter cookies for dipping

# Instructions:

01 - Let the cream cheese sit out of the fridge for about 2 hours to get soft. You want it to feel really smooth and creamy when gently pressed.
02 - Take a mixer with a paddle attachment and beat the softened cream cheese with the brown sugar. Keep going for about 2-3 minutes until it’s creamy and there aren’t any clumps left. Scrape down the sides with a spatula to mix it evenly. Scoop this mixture into a small bowl and set aside.
03 - In the same bowl (no need to wash it), pour in the heavy cream and add the vanilla. Swap to a whisk attachment and whip until the cream forms sturdy peaks, holding its shape after about 2 minutes.
04 - Turn the mixer to low and drizzle the caramel sauce into the whipped cream. Turn it up slightly and mix lightly for about 30 seconds, just until combined. Overmixing might make it lose its fluffiness.
05 - Add the cream cheese mixture back into the whipped cream. Blend it gently on low for about a minute until everything looks smooth and airy. Avoid overdoing it or you’ll lose that light texture.
06 - Scoop the finished mixture into your favorite serving bowl. Add a little caramel drizzle in the middle for a nice touch. If you’d like, sprinkle some cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
07 - Place apple slices, crackers, or other dippers around the bowl. If using apple slices, you can coat them in lemon juice to keep them from turning brown. Let the dip chill slightly before serving—it tastes best cool, but not super cold.

# Notes:

01 - You can keep this dip in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s great for prepping ahead of time for parties or fun gatherings.
02 - For a cozy fall vibe, serve this alongside snacks like apple slices, pretzels, cookies, and graham crackers.
03 - Try swapping the brown sugar for maple syrup for a twist that pairs well with apples and caramel.