Name: Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 ½ cups diced apples – peeled, cored, and diced; 1 Tablespoon water; 1-2 Tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter – melted; 6 oz. cream cheese, light; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1/4 cup caramel topping (or more if desired)

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If you love the cozy flavors of apple pie but want something a little fuss-free and cute, this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe is going to be your new go-to. I adore how this dessert is perfectly portioned and layered in little jars, making it ideal for sharing at parties or even just treating yourself after a long day. Plus, that cream cheese layer adds a lovely richness that balances the cinnamon-spiced apples beautifully.

This recipe works wonderfully anytime you crave something sweet yet comforting, especially during apple season or fall gatherings. It’s so worth trying if you want a dessert that’s visually charming but easy to pull together, and those individual jars mean no fuss about cutting slices or dealing with crumbs everywhere. Trust me, once you try this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe, you’ll want to make it over and over.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe plays its role in creating layers of flavor and texture. A good tip when you shop is to pick firm apples that hold their shape well, and for the cream cheese, make sure it’s softened for a silky smooth filling.

Unsalted butter: Helps cook the apples and adds richness to the crust without extra saltiness.
Diced apples: Choose starchy apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and tartness.
Water: Keeps the apples from sticking and helps them soften evenly.
Brown sugar: Adds that deep caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings out the classic apple pie flavor.
Graham cracker crumbs: Creates a crunchy, buttery base that’s an easy alternative to traditional pie crust.
Sugar (for crust): Provides just a touch of sweetness to balance the crackers.
Cream cheese (light): Gives the creamy layer its tang and smooth texture without being too heavy.
Heavy cream: Whipped into the cream cheese for a light and fluffy consistency.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer without graininess.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
Caramel topping: For that irresistible sticky, buttery finish on top.

Variations

I love to play around with this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe depending on the season and occasion. It’s such a simple base that you can easily personalize to suit your taste or dietary needs — and you should totally make it your own!

Swap apples: I’ve tried using pears or peaches when apples aren’t in season, and it’s surprisingly delightful with the cream cheese and caramel staying the same.
Make it vegan: I once used vegan butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cream cheese to make this dairy-free — still delicious, just a little lighter!
Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled between the cream cheese layer and caramel topping add an amazing crunch.
Spice it up: Sometimes I mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon to give it a warmer autumnal vibe.

How to Make Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Apple Filling

In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples, water, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender but not mushy—around 8 to 10 minutes. You want the apples to retain a bit of bite so that your Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe has amazing texture contrasts. A quick tip: If your apples seem to dry out before softening, add a splash more water to keep them juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

While the apples cool slightly, mix the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until evenly combined. Press about 1 to 2 tablespoons of this mixture into the bottom of each mason jar to form a sturdy crust layer. I’ve found that pressing firmly with the back of a spoon helps compact the crumbs, so your crust has a nice crunch and doesn’t crumble when you dig in.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This will create a light, fluffy layer that’s creamy, sweet, and just tangy enough to contrast the warm apples. I like to taste as I go here to balance the sweetness perfectly to my liking.

Step 4: Assemble Your Mason Jars

Layer the dessert in your mason jars starting with the graham cracker crust, then add a thick layer of the cream cheese mixture, followed by the warm spiced apples. Repeat if your jars are tall enough and top it all off with a generous drizzle of caramel topping. This layering method is why this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe is such a winner — each spoonful delivers every flavor and texture in perfect harmony.

How to Serve Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe

The image shows three small clear glass jars filled with a three-layer dessert, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly light brown crust. Above it is a thick creamy white layer that looks smooth. The top layer is made of golden-cooked apple pieces with a shiny caramel-like sauce dripping slightly down the side of the jar. Two brown spoons lie on the surface next to the jars, and a soft orange cloth is blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m a huge fan of adding a few pecan halves or a sprinkle of crushed graham cracker crumbs right on top of the caramel for extra crunch and eye appeal. A tiny sprig of fresh mint also gives a nice pop of color and freshness. These little touches elevate the dessert and make it feel extra special for guests.

Side Dishes

Because this dessert is rich and sweet, I love pairing it with simple, lightly brewed chai or black coffee. If you want something to balance the dessert on your table, a scoop of plain vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries complements it beautifully without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings or birthdays, I like to tie rustic twine around the necks of the mason jars and add a little label with festive fonts that reads “Apple Pie in a Jar.” It’s charming, practical, and makes each jar look like a little gift. Another fun idea is to serve them on a wooden tray lined with cinnamon sticks and apple slices for a warm, autumn-inspired display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover the jars tightly with their lids or plastic wrap and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cream cheese layer can start to soften a bit in the fridge, but honestly, that makes it even easier to scoop. Just give the jars a gentle shake before you dig in.

Freezing

Freezing this dessert is possible but not my favorite because the texture of the cream cheese layer changes a bit. If you do freeze it, remove the caramel topping first and add fresh caramel after thawing. Wrap the jars carefully or transfer the dessert to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the warm apple filling again, I reheat just the apple layer gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, then spoon it back over the cool cream cheese in the jar. This way, you get that perfect contrast between warm fruit and chilled creaminess that makes this Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pie filling instead of cooking my own apples?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a good quality canned or jarred apple pie filling works just fine. Just warm it slightly before layering to keep that fresh-baked vibe in your jars.
What size mason jars work best for this recipe?

I find that half-pint (8 oz) jars are ideal—they’re the perfect serving size without being overwhelming. Plus, they’re easy to eat from and look darling when layered.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies to keep your crust crunchy and delicious.
How long does this dessert keep in the fridge?

Stored properly with lids or plastic wrap, your mason jar apple pies last for about 3 days refrigerated before the cream cheese starts to change texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! I recommend assembling everything the day before but adding the caramel topping just before serving. It saves time and keeps the caramel fresh and glossy.

Final Thoughts

This Mason Jar Apple Pie with Cream Cheese Layer and Caramel Topping Recipe really has a special place in my heart because it turns a classic dessert into a charming little treat that’s easy to share and hard to resist. I love how it invites creativity and personal touches while delivering all those comforting fall flavors we know and love. So next time you want to impress friends or just indulge yourself, grab some jars and make this—you won’t regret a single bite.