Recipe Monday: Delectable Caramel Apple Dip

It's been such a long time since I have posted a recipe on this ole' space. But after a dinner party last weekend - and a follow up text two days later reminding me I promised many people the recipe, I decided it's probably time to share one around here.

Many many moons ago, at one of our first ever Annual Gal's Night Pumpkin Carving one of my girlfriends brought an appetizer and the moment she left I knew I HAD to have the recipe. It was so delicious and everything fall appetizers are supposed to be. So, last Wednesday when we celebrated our 8th or 9th annual pumpkin gals night ... I hosted and my appetizer contribution was of course the "Delectable Caramel Apple Dip".

It is SO EASY and yet, looks so fancy - which is always a win in my book. Three layers of delectable dip scooped in heaping deliciousness upon yummy, juicy apples. Sweetened cream cheese, always amazing caramel and toffee bits for an added bonus and bit of crunch.

Here's what you're going to need:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 (8-oz) packages Cream Cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar 
• 1 (16-oz) container Marzetti Old Fashioned Caramel Dip (any brand will work, but make sure you get the thick dip and not sauce or drizzle)
• 1 cup Heath Bar Toffee Bits 
• 4 large Apples (any variety - I prefer Granny Smith) sliced medium or bagged sliced apple (they tend to brown less if dip will be set out or prepared beforehand)

And here's what you're gonna do:

DIRECTIONS: 

In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy - feel free to measure, or don't :), you just want to sweeten the cream cheese up enough so you remove the bit of sour flavor.

Once the mixture is all combined, pick a large platter and spread the mixture evenly in the center of the plate.

Now it's time to add another layer (and in my opinion the best one), the caramel dip. Right on top of the cream cheese evenly spread the caramel layer and smooth. If you accidently purchase the caramel sauce instead of the dip - don't worry - it will still taste delicious, but the caramel will spread all over and be "less pretty".

Once your layers are in place - sprinkle the toffee bits generously all over the top of the caramel, and go ahead - admire the beauty and refrain from taking your finger and dipping it directly in the center (I know, it's really hard not to). 

Once you've covered every square inch it's time for the apple dippers.

I like to nestle the edges of the apples down into the dip and have them sprawl along the endges of the plate. I think it looks beautiful, and it helps to let your guests know they are simply supposed to use the apple to scoop, rather than make them think you've forgotten the spoon.

The dip is best prepared and served quickly - however you can make ahead of time and cover with foil in the refrigerator - but be prepared to set it out about an hour before so allow the cream cheese time to soften (so it is easier to scoop with the apples). Also, if you're making ahead or plan to have it sit out for a while - you may want to substitute bagged apples for sliced apples (or make sure to coat the apples in a little bit of lemon juice - to avoid browning).

And there you have it folks - the most delectable caramel apple dip - fall on a plate - and everyone is happy (wanting seconds AND the recipe). Enjoy!