Save A luscious, creamy dip blending warm spiced apples with a sweet praline crunch—perfect for fruit, cookies, or graham crackers.
I first whipped up this spiced apple praline dip for a fall potluck, and it disappeared fast. Everyone kept asking for the recipe, and now it's a staple at our family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples: peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: used to cook both apples and praline
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: for sweetening apples
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: to spice apples
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: for added warmth
- Pinch of ground cloves: for depth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: brightens apple layer
- Pinch of salt: balances flavor
- 1/2 cup pecans: coarsely chopped for praline
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: coats pecans in praline
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: melts with pecans
- Pinch of salt: for praline
- 8 oz cream cheese (225 g): softened, for whip layer
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: sweetens whip
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: added to whip
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: beaten cold until stiff
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Apple Layer:
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and syrupy (about 7 minutes). Cool completely.
- Make the Praline:
- Wipe out the skillet and add 1 tbsp butter. Add chopped pecans, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until sugar melts and coats the nuts (about 3 minutes). Cool on parchment paper, then break into small clusters.
- Prepare the Whip:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream to stiff peaks. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until combined.
- Assemble the Dip:
- Spread half the cream cheese whip in a serving dish. Top with half the spiced apples and half the praline. Repeat layers. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save This dip feels extra special when we gather for movie nights, and the kids love helping sprinkle on the praline clusters.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with sliced apples, pears, graham crackers, or ginger cookies for dipping. It pairs perfectly with a mug of spiced cider.
Allergen Information
This recipe features dairy and pecans, so double-check your ingredients and dippers if cooking for anyone with allergies.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 285 calories, 21 g total fat, 22 g carbs, and 3 g protein.
Save Chill before serving for best flavor and texture. Enjoy with your favorite dippers and savor the cozy flavors.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use different nuts for the praline?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes for pecans, offering varied flavor and texture.
- → How do I make the dip lighter?
Opt for light cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream and full-fat cream cheese.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Sliced apples, pears, graham crackers, or ginger cookies complement the dip beautifully.
- → How long does it need to chill?
Chill the assembled dip for at least 30 minutes to develop the best flavor and consistency.
- → Can I add a twist for adults?
Add a splash of bourbon to the apple layer for extra depth and warmth in the overall flavor.
- → Is this vegetarian?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, but check labels for any hidden allergens.