Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Pie Dream Dessert Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 23 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 4 hours 28 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Description

Apple Pie Dream Dessert is a luscious layered treat featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy spiced cream cheese filling, a rich caramel whipped topping, and a sweet apple pie filling, all topped with a zesty lime-flavored crumble. This no-bake dessert is chilled to set, creating a crisp, creamy, and fruity combination that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Crumble

  • 3 ounces box 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 or substitute additional graham crackers for nut allergy)
  • 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
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 8 oz container frozen whipped topping (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Apple Layer

  • 1 can apple pie filling
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to prepare for baking the crumble topping.
  2. Make the Crumble: In a medium bowl, use a fork to stir together lime-flavored Jell-o, 1 cup flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1/2 cup cold butter. Work the mixture until it forms fine crumbles.
  3. Bake the Crumble: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly. Bake uncovered for 7-8 minutes without stirring, until the crumbles are set and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely, then store chilled in an airtight container.
  4. Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pecans, melted butter, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir until ingredients are evenly mixed.
  5. Press and Chill the Crust: Transfer the crust mixture into a 9 x 9 inch square baking dish. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom to form an even crust layer. Place in the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes to set.
  6. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add Sugar and Spices: Gradually mix in powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg on low to medium speed until the filling is smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  8. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined with the cream cheese mixture.
  9. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust layer in the baking dish.
  10. Prepare the Caramel Whipped Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the thawed frozen whipped topping and caramel sauce. Stir gently until the mixture is homogenous.
  11. Spread the Caramel Topping: Spread the caramel whipped topping mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer, smoothing the surface carefully with the back of a spoon.
  12. Prepare the Apple Layer: In a small bowl, mix the apple pie filling with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  13. Add the Apple Pie Filling: Spread the seasoned apple pie filling evenly on top of the caramel whipped topping layer.
  14. Top with Crumble: Sprinkle the cooled lime-flavored crumble evenly over the apple pie layer for a crunchy finish.
  15. Chill the Dessert: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
  16. Serve: After chilling, slice the Apple Pie Dream Dessert into 9 servings and enjoy the layered flavors and textures.

Notes

  • The crumble topping can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for added convenience.
  • Use pistachio Jell-o instead of lime for a different but complementary flavor.
  • If allergic to nuts, substitute pecans in the crust with extra graham cracker crumbs.
  • Make sure all softened ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
  • Allow the dessert sufficient chilling time for best texture and flavor integration.
  • Use a 9 x 9 inch square baking dish to ensure proper layering and portion size.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American