These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples combine the sweet and tart flavor of baked apples with creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy graham cracker topping. A perfect dessert for cozy fall evenings, holidays, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Impressive: Simple ingredients and quick preparation create a stunning dessert.
- Comforting Flavors: The warm apples, creamy filling, and spiced topping are the essence of comfort.
- Versatile: Customize the filling and toppings to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for holidays, dinner parties, or a family treat, this dessert fits any setting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Apples
Wash and core the apples, ensuring the bottom is left intact to create a well for the filling. - Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and creamy. - Stuff the Apples
Fill each cored apple with the cheesecake mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s well-packed. - Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. - Top the Apples
Spoon the graham cracker mixture over the filled apples, pressing lightly to adhere. - Bake
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and drizzle with lemon juice to enhance flavor and prevent browning. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set. - Cool and Serve
Let the apples cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the graham cracker topping for a nutty twist.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling.
- Spiced Topping: Enhance the topping with nutmeg or allspice for a holiday vibe.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute and sugar-free graham crackers for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm.
FAQs
1. What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their balance of sweetness and firmness.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and filling in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of crumb topping?
Certainly! Oatmeal or crushed cookies can be used as an alternative to graham crackers.
4. How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Drizzle the apples with lemon juice before baking to maintain their color.
5. Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, flavored cream cheese (like strawberry or maple) can add a unique twist to the filling.
6. Are these baked apples gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or omit the topping altogether.
7. Can I make mini versions of this recipe?
Yes, use smaller apples or even hollowed-out apple slices for bite-sized treats.
8. What can I serve alongside these apples?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey pairs wonderfully with baked apples.
9. How do I core an apple without cutting through the bottom?
Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core while leaving the base intact.
10. Can I freeze these baked apples?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the apples and cheesecake filling may change upon thawing.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and tender baked apples, finished with a buttery graham cracker topping. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, they’re a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion. Try them today and elevate your dessert game!
PrintCheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples! Creamy cheesecake filling and buttery graham cracker topping baked into tender apples make the perfect dessert for fall or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 4 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the apples:
Wash and core the apples, ensuring the bottom remains intact to create a well for the filling. - Make the cheesecake filling:
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth. - Stuff the apples:
Fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture, gently pressing down to pack it tightly. - Prepare the topping:
In a separate bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. - Top the apples:
Spoon the graham cracker mixture over the stuffed apples, pressing lightly to help it stick. - Bake the apples:
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and drizzle them with lemon juice. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set. - Serve:
Allow the apples to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate comfort dessert!
Notes
- For extra indulgence, drizzle the baked apples with caramel sauce or sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Adjust sugar in the filling based on the sweetness of the apples.
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