If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the warm flavors of baked apples with the creamy richness of cheesecake, look no further! Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a comforting and elegant treat that’s perfect for fall, winter, or whenever you’re craving a warm, indulgent dessert. These apples are hollowed out, filled with a tangy cheesecake mixture, topped with buttery graham cracker crumbs, and baked to golden perfection.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through preparing a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re serving it to guests or treating yourself, you’re going to love the combination of flavors and textures in these cheesecake-stuffed apples.
Ingredients:
For the Apples:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional for added crunch)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, core the apples carefully, making sure not to puncture the bottom. You want to create a cavity deep enough to hold the cheesecake filling. After coring, drizzle the insides with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and keep the apples looking fresh and vibrant.
Step 2: Mix the Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup chopped nuts (if using). This mixture will give the apples an extra sweet-spiced flavor. Sprinkle this sugar mixture inside each apple, coating the walls of the cavity. Set the apples aside while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the 1 large egg and continue beating until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in the 1/4 cup sour cream for that rich, tangy cheesecake flavor. Mix until well combined, making sure the filling is velvety and lump-free.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Using a spoon, carefully fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture until it reaches the top. Be generous with the filling, as it will set and create a creamy center for your baked apples.
Step 5: Prepare the Graham Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This topping adds a delightful crunch and complements the soft texture of the baked apples. Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture evenly over the stuffed apples.
Step 6: Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. It’s important to ensure the apples are standing upright so the filling doesn’t spill out. Bake the apples for about 30 minutes or until they are tender, and the cheesecake filling is set. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your apples, so start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. You’ll know they’re done when the apples are soft and the filling has a slight golden hue.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the apples to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the cheesecake filling a chance to set fully. Serve the stuffed baked apples warm for the best flavor and texture. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat!
Cooking Notes:
- Apple Varieties: Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet filling, while Honeycrisp apples offer a sweeter base. Choose your favorite apple variety depending on your preference.
- Coring Apples: Be careful when coring the apples not to puncture the bottom. If you accidentally do, line the hole with a small piece of apple to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the apples and filling in advance, then refrigerate them for a few hours before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
- Garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs or chopped nuts for added texture.
- For a decadent twist, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce just before serving.
Tips:
- Crushed Graham Crackers: You can either buy pre-crushed graham crackers or crush them yourself by placing whole crackers in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
- Extra Filling: If you have any leftover cheesecake filling, don’t let it go to waste! Spoon it into small ramekins and bake for about 10 minutes for mini cheesecake bites.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per stuffed apple):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion:
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of baked apples and the creamy richness of cheesecake. The combination of the warm, tender apple with the sweet and tangy filling, topped with buttery graham crackers, makes this recipe a must-try. It’s an easy and impressive dish that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a cozy night in. So go ahead, save this recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent dessert!
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Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples – The Perfect Cozy Dessert!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Apples:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional for added crunch)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, core the apples carefully, making sure not to puncture the bottom. You want to create a cavity deep enough to hold the cheesecake filling. After coring, drizzle the insides with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and keep the apples looking fresh and vibrant.
Step 2: Mix the Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup chopped nuts (if using). This mixture will give the apples an extra sweet-spiced flavor. Sprinkle this sugar mixture inside each apple, coating the walls of the cavity. Set the apples aside while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the 1 large egg and continue beating until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in the 1/4 cup sour cream for that rich, tangy cheesecake flavor. Mix until well combined, making sure the filling is velvety and lump-free.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Using a spoon, carefully fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture until it reaches the top. Be generous with the filling, as it will set and create a creamy center for your baked apples.
Step 5: Prepare the Graham Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This topping adds a delightful crunch and complements the soft texture of the baked apples. Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture evenly over the stuffed apples.
Step 6: Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. It’s important to ensure the apples are standing upright so the filling doesn’t spill out. Bake the apples for about 30 minutes or until they are tender, and the cheesecake filling is set. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your apples, so start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. You’ll know they’re done when the apples are soft and the filling has a slight golden hue.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the apples to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the cheesecake filling a chance to set fully. Serve the stuffed baked apples warm for the best flavor and texture. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g