Hide your spoons. You’ll want to use them to eat this dip instead of sliced apples. Apples will at least make you think that you’re being somewhat healthy. But I won’t judge either way. You guys know me, I can’t resist a good dip and if a spoon is handy, well then, why not?! How long it takes: 10 minutes, tops Equipment you’ll need: mixing bowl Servings: makes 2 cups When apples are in season, caramel apples start appearing everywhere. This dip is kind of a deconstructed caramel apple: crisp fresh apple slices, sticky sweet caramel yumminess, and peanuts, too. If you’re a fan of caramel apples, this dip is definitely for you. Grown-ups love this dip, too, as they sip an apple cider mule ( the fall version of a Moscow mule) or an apple cider mocktail (or cocktail, if you prefer). The apples and sweet dip are the perfect balance for more savory offerings like bacon wrapped water chestnuts or wild mushroom crostini with goat cheese. P.S. Check out more of my appetizer ideas if you’re hosting a get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Dip
Tastes like caramel apples! This dip is SO yummy. Have I gotten that point across yet? It’s weird because the dip is made with peanut butter and cream cheese but somehow tastes like caramels. Kid friendly. Kids love dips and this one is no exception. Set out a big platter of sliced apples and just watch those apples disappear when caramel apple dip is on hand. It makes a pretty special lunchbox treat, too. Goes well with other dippers, too. I guess I should also mention that while this dip is perfect for apple slices, it’s also great with graham crackers or animal crackers. Or a spoon. Did I mention that? So easy to make. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to make apple dip. The hardest part is remembering to take the cream cheese out of the fridge an hour or so ahead of time to soften. But don’t worry, there’s a fast and easy way to soften cream cheese, too (keep reading). Ready to get started? Got your spoon ready? Let’s go!
Ingredients
How To Make Apple Dip
Mix ingredients. Once your cream cheese has softened, place it in a medium sized bowl. Add the white sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and smooth. I like to use my electric mixer. Mix the dip on medium speed, scraping the sides of the bowl frequently. Add nuts. Fold in the chopped nuts until they are distributed throughout the dip. You may want to set a couple tablespoons of nuts aside to use as a garnish. Put the dip into a serving bowl or covered container if you’re not using it right away. Serve. Arrange sliced apples around a bowl of apple dip, and dive in!
Make It Your Own
Stir ins: Add your own embellishments. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top (or mixed in) is really good. Chocolate lovers can stir in mini chocolate chips. Love toffee? Make the dip with toffee bits instead of chopped peanuts. Try substituting maple extract for the vanilla. Substitute yogurt. Not a fan of cream cheese? Make this dip with yogurt instead. Substitute 1 cup plain Greek yogurt for the cream cheese. The texture of the dip will be slightly different. Peanut-free option: Omit the peanut butter and chopped peanuts. The dip will be creamy and delicious. Another option is to substitute sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter (SunButter). Stir in roasted sunflower seeds instead of chopped nuts.
Make-Ahead Ideas
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Keep the apple dip in a tightly covered container. It can be refrigerated at least five days assuming it hasn’t sat out on the counter for hours. To Serve: Remove the apple dip from the refrigerator ten minutes ahead of time to allow it to soften a bit, and give it a good stir.
