Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe

Introduction

Cheesecake stuffed apples are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the tartness of fresh apples with creamy, cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling. This recipe is perfect for a cozy gathering or a simple treat to enjoy any time of year.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 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)
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning of apples)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry.
3. Step 3: Carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity.
4. Step 4: Drizzle a little lemon juice inside each apple to prevent browning.
5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Step 6: Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well incorporated.
7. Step 7: Add the sour cream and mix until fully combined.
8. Step 8: Fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts, if using, with a spatula.
9. Step 9: Fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture using a spoon or piping bag, packing it gently but firmly.
10. Step 10: Place the filled apples upright in a baking dish. Spoon any leftover filling around the apples.
11. Step 11: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
12. Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the apples are tender but not mushy.
13. Step 13: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the tops slightly.
14. Step 14: Let the apples cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
15. Step 15: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.
16. Step 16: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast.

Tips & Variations

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
• For a nut-free option, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
• Try adding a handful of mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for extra indulgence.
• Use a piping bag to fill the apples neatly and avoid mess.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed apples covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as this may cause the apples to become mushy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any firm apple variety that holds its shape when baked. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices because of their tart flavor and firmness, but Fuji or Pink Lady apples also work well.

Can I prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cheesecake filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Fill and bake the apples just before serving for the freshest taste.

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 500 reviews

Delight in these Cheesecake Stuffed Apples, a warm and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Crisp apples are hollowed out and filled with a creamy cheesecake mixture made from cream cheese, sugars, sour cream, and spices, then baked to tender perfection. Finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and optional nuts, this dish offers a delicious blend of fruity tartness, creamy sweetness, and delightful textures.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)

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)

Toppings

• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed apples.
2. Prepare Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry. Carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity for the filling.
3. Prevent Browning: Drizzle a little lemon juice inside each apple cavity to prevent browning during the preparation and baking process.
4. Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
5. Add Flavors: Incorporate the brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt into the cream cheese mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Mix Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the mixture and stir until fully combined, creating a smooth filling.
7. Fold in Crunch: Gently fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts (if using) using a spatula, ensuring an even distribution of texture and flavor.
8. Fill Apples: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into each hollowed apple cavity, packing it gently but firmly to fill completely.
9. Arrange for Baking: Place the filled apples upright in a baking dish. Spoon any leftover filling around the apples to bake alongside.
10. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
11. Brown the Tops: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the tops of the cheesecake filling slightly.
12. Cool Slightly: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the apples cool for about 10 minutes to set partially before serving.
13. Add Toppings and Serve: Drizzle the warm stuffed apples with caramel sauce and sprinkle extra cinnamon if desired. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent contrast.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavors.
• Softened cream cheese will blend more smoothly into the filling.
• Lemon juice in the apples helps prevent discoloration and enhances freshness.
• Optional nuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for nut allergies.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the dessert experience.
• Store any leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2 days for best texture and flavor.

Keywords: Cheesecake stuffed apples, baked apples dessert, creamy stuffed apples, caramel stuffed apples, easy fall dessert, baked fruit dessert