If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the cozy flavors of fall with a creamy indulgence, you have to try this Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe. It takes simple apples and turns them into an elegant treat by stuffing them with a luscious cheesecake filling that’s perfectly spiced and baked to tender perfection. This recipe is an absolute showstopper whether you’re serving family at dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, and it makes the best use of seasonal fruit with a creamy twist that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe plays a crucial part in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the tartness of Granny Smith apples to the rich creaminess of the cream cheese, these ingredients are simple yet essential for delicious results.
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice tart contrast to the sweet filling.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling providing that classic cheesecake richness and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture just right without overpowering it.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor and depth to the filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A warm, fragrant note that complements the cheesecake beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings a comforting spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the filling extra smooth.
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers: Provides a bit of crunchy texture and classic cheesecake crust flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans): Offers a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling): Adds a luscious, sticky sweetness that finishes the dish with flair.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds a light citrus note.
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish): Keeps the apples from sticking and helps develop a slightly caramelized base.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, wash and dry your apples well. Carefully core each apple from the top, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t leak out. Drizzle lemon juice inside to keep them looking fresh and prevent any browning as you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Get Baking Dish Ready
Lightly grease a baking dish with butter—this small step ensures your apples won’t stick and helps them bake evenly. Arrange the apples upright in the dish, ready to be filled with that dreamy cheesecake mixture.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt, mixing well for layers of flavor. Incorporate sour cream to achieve a velvety texture. Finally, fold in crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts if using, which give the filling delightful crunch and classic cheesecake notes.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake the Apples
Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into each hollowed apple, filling them generously until they’re slightly mounded on top. If you want an extra touch of texture, sprinkle a bit more crushed graham cracker on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them by testing with a toothpick — it should slide in easily. Don’t forget to drizzle caramel sauce during the last 5 minutes in the oven to infuse that irresistible sticky sweetness.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the apples and let them cool for about 10 minutes to set the filling slightly. Then serve each stuffed apple drizzled with more caramel sauce and, for the ultimate indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely finishing touch. A drizzle of extra caramel sauce not only enhances flavor but makes the presentation stunningly inviting.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines best on its own or alongside a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more substantial accompaniment, serve it with spiced whipped cream or a light drizzle of berry coulis to add a hint of freshness and color contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cheesecake stuffed apples in rustic ramekins or vintage dessert plates to highlight their charming, homemade appeal. For a fun twist at gatherings, place mini spoons beside each apple so guests can easily savor every bite without the mess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesecake stuffed apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The apples will continue to soften, so they’re best enjoyed soon after baking.
Freezing
While this recipe is best fresh, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed apples on a baking sheet for up to a month. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat the apples gently in a preheated 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave on low heat in short intervals to avoid breaking down the filling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are preferred for their balance of tartness and firmness, you can experiment with other crisp apples like Fuji or Pink Lady to suit your taste.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?
Sour cream adds a lovely tang and creaminess similar to traditional cheesecake. If you don’t have it, Greek yogurt is a suitable substitute, though it slightly alters the texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free sour cream alternative, plus vegan caramel sauce, to keep this dessert friendly for those avoiding dairy. The baking process remains the same.
How do I prevent the apples from breaking while baking?
Choosing firm apples and baking at a moderate temperature helps. Also, avoid overstuffing the apples and check them early to ensure they remain intact while becoming tender.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
You can make the cheesecake filling a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Assemble and bake the apples just before serving for the freshest results.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe is a wonderful way to bring warmth and sweetness into your kitchen. It’s a recipe that feels special yet comes together easily, inviting you to savor the comforting flavors of fall with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert to share again and again!
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Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesecake Stuffed Apples offer a delightful twist on classic dessert by combining tender, baked apples with a creamy, spiced cheesecake filling. This easy-to-make baked dessert features a luscious blend of cream cheese, brown and granulated sugars, cinnamon, and graham cracker crumbs inside juicy Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a perfect sweet finish.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans)
- Milk, a splash (optional, to loosen filling if too thick)
Finishing
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the apples evenly.
- Prepare Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water and pat dry. Carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
- Prevent Browning: Drizzle a little lemon juice inside each apple to stop them from browning and preserve their fresh look.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking, then place the apples upright inside the dish.
- Make Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt, mixing well to combine.
- Combine with Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated into the cheesecake mixture.
- Add Crunch: Fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts, if using, to add texture and flavor. If the filling feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.
- Fill Apples: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into each apple, packing firmly and filling to the top with a slight mound of filling.
- Optional Topping: Sprinkle extra crushed graham crackers on top of each filled apple for added crunch.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until apples are tender but still hold shape. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the side of an apple; it should slide in easily.
- Drizzle Caramel: During the last 5 minutes of baking, drizzle caramel sauce over the tops of the apples to melt slightly and enhance flavor.
- Cool: Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving to set the filling.
- Serve: Place each stuffed apple on a dessert plate and drizzle more caramel sauce over the top. For an indulgent finish, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Notes
- You can use either Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples depending on your preferred balance of tartness and sweetness.
- If you want to keep the recipe nut-free, simply omit the chopped nuts.
- A splash of milk in the filling helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency if it feels too dense.
- Allow apples to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth with hot filling.
- Adding vanilla ice cream or whipped cream elevates this dessert for special occasions.
