Description
Apple Pie Dream Dessert is a luscious, no-bake layered treat consisting of a graham cracker crust, creamy spiced cream cheese filling, caramel whipped topping, and classic apple pie filling, topped with a crunchy lime-flavored crumble. This dessert combines the familiar warmth of apple pie spices with a refreshing twist from lime Jell-o crumbs, creating a delightful and visually appealing dish perfect for gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients
Crumble
- 3 ounces lime flavored Jell-o (or pistachio Jell-o)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and divided)
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup pecans (finely chopped in a food processor) or additional graham cracker crumbs if allergic to nuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 1/3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 8 oz container frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 can apple pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to prepare for baking the crumble topping.
- Make the Crumble: In a medium bowl, use a fork to stir together the lime Jell-o powder with half of the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and half of the cold butter. Mix until you achieve a fine crumbly texture.
- Bake the Crumble: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly across it. Bake for 7-8 minutes without stirring to set. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Store Crumble: Once cooled, store the crumble in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use. Before using, stir the crumbs with a fork to break any clumps. This makes about 3 cups of crumble.
- Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pecans (or extra graham cracker crumbs if preferred), melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the Crust: Transfer the crust mixture to a 9 x 9-inch square baking dish. Press firmly into the bottom to create an even layer. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.
- Make the Filling: In a stand mixer or using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, beating on low-medium speed until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and stir until combined.
- Assemble Filling Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust using a spatula.
- Prepare the Whipped Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the thawed whipped topping with caramel sauce, stirring until evenly combined.
- Assemble Whipped Topping Layer: Spread the caramel whipped topping evenly over the cream cheese layer, smoothing gently with the back of a spoon.
- Add Apple Pie Filling: Evenly spread the canned apple pie filling on top of the caramel whipped topping layer.
- Top with Crumble: Sprinkle the prepared lime crumble evenly over the apple pie filling.
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice into 9 servings and serve chilled for a refreshing and flavorful dessert experience.
Notes
- You can substitute pistachio Jell-o for lime Jell-o if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- If allergic to nuts, omit pecans and increase graham cracker crumbs accordingly for the crust.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
- Allow ample chilling time for the dessert to set well; overnight is ideal.
- This dessert is best served cold and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American