Cookie Dough & Caramel Apple Trifle: The Ultimate Fall Dessert

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate autumn than with a dessert that combines cozy flavors and Weight Watchers-friendly indulgence. Enter the Cookie Dough & Caramel Apple Trifle—a layered masterpiece of spiced apples, creamy cookie dough, and luscious caramel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall Flavors, Zero Guilt: Enjoy the classic combo of caramel and apples with a cookie dough twist—no sugar crash!
• Weight Watchers-Friendly: Lightened-up ingredients keep points low without sacrificing decadence.
• Easy to Assemble: No baking required—just layer and chill!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough Layer:

• 1 cup fat-free Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
• ½ cup powdered peanut butter (like PB2)
• 2 tbsp sugar-free maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (use sugar-free for fewer points)
• 3 tbsp oat flour (or blended oats)

For the Caramel Apple Layer:

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• ½ cup light caramel sauce (look for a low-sugar brand like Walden Farms)

For the Whipped Cream Layer:

• 1 cup light whipped topping (like Cool Whip Lite)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• Crumbled graham crackers (1/2 sheet per serving, add 1 point)
• Extra drizzle of caramel sauce
• Cinnamon sprinkle

Instructions

Prep the Cookie Dough

1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, powdered peanut butter, sugar-free maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Fold in oat flour and mini chocolate chips. The mixture should resemble edible cookie dough. Chill for 15 minutes.

Cook the Spiced Apples

1. Toss diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Microwave for 3-4 minutes or sauté in a nonstick skillet until tender. Let cool slightly, then mix with ¼ cup of light caramel sauce.

Assemble the Trifle

1. Layer 1: In a trifle dish or individual glasses, spread half of the cookie dough mixture.
2. Layer 2: Add half of the spiced caramel apples.
3. Layer 3: Dollop half of the whipped topping mixed with vanilla.
4. Repeat the layers (cookie dough, apples, whipped cream).
5. Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce, crumbled graham crackers (optional), and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Serve cold for the best texture!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~160
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 12g (mostly natural from apples)
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW SmartPoints: 5 (calculated with sugar-free chocolate chips and light caramel sauce).

Tips for Success

1. Keep It Low-Point: Use Walden Farms caramel sauce (0 points) and skip graham crackers.
2. Vegan Option: Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and use vegan caramel.
3. Meal Prep: Layer individual portions in mason jars for grab-and-go desserts.
4. Add Protein: Mix a scoop of vanilla protein powder into the cookie dough layer for an extra boost.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Smart Swaps: Powdered peanut butter replaces calorie-dense peanut butter, while Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein.
• Portion Control: Layering ensures each bite is balanced, preventing overindulgence.
• Fiber-Rich Apples: Apples add natural sweetness and fiber to keep you full.

Serving Suggestions

• Fall Gatherings: Serve in a large glass trifle bowl for a stunning centerpiece.
• Weeknight Treat: Pair with a cup of spiced chai tea or black coffee.
• Kid-Friendly: Let little ones build their own mini trifles with toppings.

This Cookie Dough & Caramel Apple Trifle is the ultimate fall dessert—decadent enough to satisfy your sweet tooth but light enough to keep you on track. With layers of spiced apples, creamy cookie dough, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a celebration of autumn flavors in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this trifle proves that indulgence and wellness can go hand in hand.