Strawberry Crunch Apples with Cream Cheese Dip

Thank you so much for being here. Seriously, I’m grateful every time someone clicks into one of these recipes—whether you’re planning for a birthday bash, looking to surprise your family with a colorful treat, or just craving something a little nostalgic and fun. You’re in for a flavorful ride today, because this one’s a real gem. Strawberry Crunch Apples with Cream Cheese Dip are the ultimate no-bake party snack that hits all the notes—sweet, tart, crunchy, creamy, and absolutely eye-catching.

Strawberry Crunch Apples with Cream Cheese Dip take the classic fruit-and-dip combo to an entirely new level. Tart green or sweet Honeycrisp apple slices get dipped in a strawberry-flavored candy coating, then rolled in a golden strawberry cookie crumble reminiscent of those childhood ice cream bars we all used to fight over. Then they’re paired with a creamy, pink-swirled strawberry dip made from cream cheese and a touch of strawberry syrup. These are bright, bold, and anything but boring.

What Are Strawberry Crunch Apples?

Strawberry Crunch Apples are a mashup between candy-coated apples and that nostalgic strawberry shortcake crunch we all remember from those ice cream truck bars. Instead of coating a whole apple on a stick, which can be cumbersome and a little over-the-top for snacking, we’re slicing the apples first. That means these are easy to eat, easy to serve, and a whole lot more versatile—perfect for kids, parties, brunches, or just an afternoon pick-me-up.

Each slice is dipped halfway into melted strawberry-flavored candy melts, then rolled in a cookie crumble made from crushed Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. They get a beautiful red-and-gold finish and a satisfying crisp. Paired with the tangy, creamy strawberry cream cheese dip, it’s a match made in snacking heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe. For one, it’s ridiculously simple. You don’t need to turn on your oven, and there’s zero risk of overbaking anything. It’s also a treat that looks like it took far more effort than it actually does.

Plus, it ticks all the boxes:

• It’s easy to prepare and totally no-bake.
• It brings major color and nostalgia to the table.
• The texture contrast between tart apples, crisp coating, and creamy dip is just delightful.
• It’s a snack and a dessert all in one.

Whether you’re making a tray for a gathering or just want something fun for movie night, these Strawberry Crunch Apples are always a hit.

The Flavor Profile

Every bite is a combination of flavors and textures. You get the juicy tartness of fresh apple—especially if you go with Granny Smith—balanced out by the creamy sweetness of the strawberry candy shell. The cookie crunch adds buttery, sweet crumbs that contrast the snap of the candy. And that dip? It’s velvety, tangy, lightly sweetened, and flavored with real strawberry, which ties everything together beautifully.

If you grew up loving those strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, this will hit you right in the memory—only it’s fresher, fruitier, and just a little more grown-up.

Healthier Indulgence Benefits

While this recipe isn’t meant to be a health food, there are a few benefits worth noting:

• You’re using fresh apples as the base, so you get fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
• Portion control is easy—one or two slices is satisfying.
• The dip is made with real cream cheese and strawberry, and it can be sweetened to your liking.
• It’s a great dessert alternative to baked goods for warmer months.

And let’s be honest—this is one of those recipes that makes fruit exciting again, especially for little ones.

Ingredients

For the Coated Apples:

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), sliced into thick wedges
• 1 cup strawberry candy melts (you can also use white or pink candy melts and add strawberry extract)
• ½ cup crushed Golden Oreos or shortbread cookies
• 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberries, crushed finely
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, helps the crunch topping bind)
• Optional: melted white chocolate for drizzling

For the Cream Cheese Dip:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon strawberry syrup or crushed freeze-dried strawberries
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream, to adjust the texture of the dip

Tools You’ll Need

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Food processor or ziplock bag with rolling pin
• Mixing bowls and whisk or hand mixer
• Parchment paper or silicone mat for setting
• Small spatula or spoon

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

This recipe is flexible and forgiving. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Use vanilla wafers or graham crackers instead of Oreos for the crunch.
• If you’re out of freeze-dried strawberries, try freeze-dried raspberries for a tangier kick.
• You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt in the dip for a lighter version.
• Add a few drops of pink or red food coloring to enhance the color of the dip.
• Use white chocolate chips instead of candy melts and stir in a bit of strawberry extract or puree.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crunch Topping

In a food processor or ziplock bag, crush the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries into fine crumbs. For extra flavor and texture, stir in 1 tablespoon of melted butter to help the topping stick more evenly.

Set the crunch topping aside in a shallow dish or plate for rolling.

2. Melt the Candy Coating

Place the strawberry candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. If the candy seems too thick, you can add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to thin it out.

3. Dip and Coat the Apple Slices

Slice the apples into thick wedges and pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps the coating stick. Dip each slice halfway into the melted candy coating, letting any excess drip off. Immediately press or roll the coated section into the strawberry crunch topping.

Place the finished slices on a parchment-lined tray. If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative touch.

4. Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and strawberry syrup or freeze-dried strawberry powder and beat until fully combined. Add milk or cream a tablespoon at a time to achieve your desired consistency—thick and creamy or slightly thinner for easier dipping.

If you want a vibrant pink color, add a few drops of food coloring or a swirl of strawberry puree.

Chill until ready to serve.

What to Serve With Strawberry Crunch Apples

These dipped apple slices shine on their own, but they’re also right at home on a fruit or dessert board. Here are some ideas to pair with them:

• Fresh strawberries, grapes, or blueberries
• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate or vanilla wafers
• Pretzel rods for a salty contrast
• Whipped cream or vanilla yogurt
• Skewered fruit kabobs for a portable option

This recipe also pairs beautifully with Mini Strawberry Cream Croissants or a big bowl of Old-Fashioned Cherry Cobbler for a fully themed fruity dessert spread.

Tips for Success

• Use cold apples from the fridge so the candy coating sets quickly and cleanly.
• Be sure the apple slices are completely dry before dipping to avoid slipping.
• If your crunch topping isn’t sticking, press it onto the coated slice with your fingers.
• Add a popsicle stick to each slice for easy handling and presentation—especially great for kids.
• Let the dipped slices set at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or chill briefly in the fridge.

Storage Tips

These are best served fresh, but you can store them for later:

• Place coated apple slices in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
• Keep the dip in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Do not freeze—the texture of the candy and dip will be compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them several hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge in a single layer to keep the coating crisp.

What apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith offers a great tart contrast to the sweet coating, but Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are also excellent for their sweetness and crunch.

Can I use real strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Fresh strawberries have too much moisture and won’t work in the crunch topping, but you can definitely blend them into the dip.

Is there a dairy-free option for the dip?
Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese and a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or coconut milk.

Can I skip the candy melts?
If you want a more natural version, skip the candy coating and just dip the slices in the cream cheese dip and sprinkle the crunch topping on top.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Apples with Cream Cheese Dip are the perfect blend of playful and polished. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Whether you’re serving these at a kids’ party, a brunch buffet, or just as a snack with friends, they add that pop of color and flavor that makes everyone reach for seconds.

Plus, if you’re planning a dessert board or sweet treat spread, don’t miss out on pairing them with these other vibrant, fruity favorites:
Try Mini Strawberry Cream Croissants for a buttery, flaky companion treat or finish your party table with Old-Fashioned Cherry Cobbler—a warm, comforting dessert classic. And if you’re craving a chocolatey twist, Reese’s Brownie Dessert Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser.

Leave a Review and Share

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear what you thought! Leave a review below and share your creations on Pinterest—did you add sprinkles, drizzle white chocolate, or use a different kind of cookie in your crunch? I want to see it all!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 85mg

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