These Apple Pie Parfaits are a delightful twist on the classic pie, featuring layers of caramelized apples and homemade whipped cream. I love making them when I want the cozy, comforting flavors of fall without turning on the oven. The combination of warm cinnamon apples, airy cream, and a crunchy graham cracker or pie crust topping makes every bite feel indulgent yet light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how quickly I can put these parfaits together — in just 20 minutes, I have a dessert that looks fancy enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight treat. Since there’s no baking involved, I can enjoy that apple pie flavor even on hot days. I also like that I can customize the layers with my favorite apples and choose between graham crackers or pie crust crumbs for the topping.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced very small
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
pinch of salt
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
crumbled pie crust or honey graham cracker, for garnish

Directions

1. In a medium non-stick pan over medium-high heat, I melt the butter and sauté the apples, stirring often, for about 10 minutes until they are very soft but not mushy.

2. I add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is fully incorporated. I remove the pan from the heat and let the apples cool completely.

3. In a large mixing bowl, I whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 1 minute.

4. I layer the apple mixture and whipped cream evenly among 6 dessert cups or ramekins, alternating layers.

5. I sprinkle crumbled pie crust or graham cracker crumbs on top just before serving.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, so in 20 minutes I have a beautiful dessert ready to enjoy.

Variations

I sometimes swap apples for pears for a slightly different flavor, especially when pears are in season. If I want extra crunch, I add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers. A drizzle of caramel sauce also turns this into an even richer treat.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the parfaits in the refrigerator until I’m ready to serve them. They can be made up to a day in advance, but I prefer assembling them shortly before eating so the whipped cream stays firm. Reheating isn’t necessary since this is a chilled dessert, but if the apples are prepared ahead, I can warm them slightly before layering if I want a warm-cold contrast.

FAQs

1. Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, I can use canned apple pie filling for a quicker version, though the texture will be softer and sweeter.

2. What apples work best for this recipe?

I like using Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith, but any variety I enjoy eating fresh will work well.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I can use a plant-based butter and coconut whipped cream to make a dairy-free version.

4. How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?

I make sure to whip it to stiff peaks and only assemble the parfaits close to serving time.

5. Can I freeze these parfaits?

I don’t recommend freezing them, as whipped cream loses its texture once thawed.

Conclusion

I find Apple Pie Parfaits to be the perfect mix of elegance and ease. With layers of spiced apples, fluffy cream, and a crunchy topping, they capture the essence of apple pie in a fresh, no-bake format. Whether I’m entertaining guests or simply treating myself, these parfaits always feel special.

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