Description
This quick and comforting Apple Pie in a Cup recipe delivers all the warm, spiced flavors of classic apple pie in a convenient single serving. Tender chunks of apple simmered with butter, brown sugar, and warming spices are layered with crunchy granola or graham crackers, then topped with optional whipped cream for a delightful dessert that’s ready in just 17 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Mixture
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon water
Topping and Base
- 1/2 cup granola or crushed graham crackers
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple: Peel, core, and chop the apple into small bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Melt Butter: Place a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely to create a rich base for the apples.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the melted butter. Stir well so that all apple pieces are evenly coated with the sweet spice mixture.
- Add Water and Simmer: Pour in the tablespoon of water and stir briefly. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Check for Tenderness: Use a fork to check the apples; they should be tender yet still retain their shape. If needed, continue cooking and check every minute to avoid overcooking.
- Remove from Heat: Once the apples are soft and fragrant, take the saucepan off the heat to prevent further cooking.
- Prepare the Serving Cup: Place a layer of granola or crushed graham crackers at the bottom of your serving cup to add a delightful crunchy texture.
- Layer the Apple Mixture: Spoon the warm apple mixture over the granola or graham cracker base gently to preserve the layers.
- Add Extra Crunch (Optional): For additional texture, sprinkle another layer of granola or crushed graham crackers on top of the apple layer.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence and a creamy contrast to the warm apple filling, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the dessert warm, savoring the combination of tender apples, crunchy base, and creamy topping.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor that complements the spices well.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste preference.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the granola or graham crackers are gluten-free.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture contrast between warm apples and crunchy granola.
- This recipe is easily doubled to serve more cups or adapted to a microwave method for even quicker preparation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American