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There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, tender embrace of baked apples paired with a luscious, creamy filling that feels like dessert and breakfast rolled into one. The Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe is a delightful treat that takes humble apples to a whole new level by stuffing them with a spiced cheesecake filling and topping them with buttery, crunchy graham crackers. Imagine the burst of cinnamon and nutmeg, the tangy smoothness of cream cheese, and the cozy softness of baked fruit all mingling in every bite. It’s simple, yet sophisticated, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating a dish that’s bursting with complex flavors and inviting textures. From the crisp apples that provide structure and natural sweetness, to the cream cheese that adds smooth richness, every component elevates the final dessert in its own unique way.
- 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice balance of tart and sweet.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling, delivering rich creaminess and a slight tang.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture just enough without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note that pairs brilliantly with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Provides a subtle hint of earthiness and complexity.
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers: Gives a delightful crunchy topping that complements the creamy filling and soft apple.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker topping so it crisps up perfectly when baked.
- Optional toppings like caramel sauce, chopped pecans, or whipped cream: For adding extra indulgence and texture variations after baking.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, get your apples ready by slicing off their tops and carefully hollowing them out. It’s important to leave about a quarter inch of apple around the sides so they keep their shape while baking.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is silky smooth and evenly combined. This spiced cheesecake mix is what makes the Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe so irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
Step 3: Stuff the Apples
Gently fill each hollowed apple with the cheesecake mixture. Take care not to overfill to avoid any spilling over while they bake — you want a neat presentation with just enough filling to complement the apple shell.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping
Combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a small bowl until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping generously over each stuffed apple. This step adds a wonderfully crunchy contrast to the smooth filling and tender fruit.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the apples in a baking dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. The gentle heat softens the apples while melting the cheesecake into creamy perfection.
Step 6: Cool and Finish
Once baked, let the apples cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set a bit, making every bite luscious and satisfying. Feel free to drizzle caramel sauce, sprinkle chopped pecans, or top with whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg beautifully, while chopped pecans offer a delightful crunch. A dollop of whipped cream brings a cool, airy contrast to the warm apples and creamy filling, turning every bite into a flavor celebration.
Side Dishes
Serve these stuffed apples alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of spiced tea for a cozy pairing. They also work well with a light salad if you want a balanced meal that ends on a sweet note without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing each apple on a small dessert plate with a cinnamon stick garnish for a rustic look. You can also cut the apples in halves after baking to showcase the creamy filling inside or arrange several on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for an elegant touch at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making for an easy grab-and-go dessert or snack during busy days.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the apples before baking. Place them in a freezer-safe container and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Avoid freezing after baking because the creamy filling’s texture can change once thawed.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. This step ensures the apples remain tender and the cheesecake filling stays soft without drying out or getting rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites due to their balance of tartness and firmness, but you can experiment with Fuji, Pink Lady, or even Gala. Just make sure the apples are firm enough to hold the filling without collapsing during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, with some substitutions! Use vegan cream cheese and replace butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil. Also, check your graham crackers since some can contain honey. The results will still be delicious with these adjustments.
How can I prevent the apples from leaking during baking?
Leaving a sturdy shell of about 1/4 inch thick and not overstuffing with the cream cheese mixture helps keep the structure intact. Covering with foil during the initial baking phase also prevents excess drying and leakage.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the cheesecake filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop more before stuffing the apples and baking them.
What makes this Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe different from regular baked apples?
The creamy, spiced cheesecake filling transforms a simple baked apple into a decadent dessert that combines the best of fruity warmth and rich cheesecake flavor, plus a delightful crunchy topping for texture contrast. It’s comfort food with a little elegant twist.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe, it’s hard not to fall completely in love with the cozy blend of creamy cheesecake and tender, spiced apples. It’s a spectacular way to enjoy fruit in dessert form, full of nostalgic warmth and just enough indulgence to satisfy every craving. Go ahead and make it your new favorite — you’ll be glad you did!
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Print
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 40m
- Total Time: 1h 0m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples, combining tender baked apples with a creamy, spiced cheesecake filling and a crunchy graham cracker topping. This comforting dessert blends warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla flavors, perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Topping
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional Toppings
- caramel sauce
- chopped pecans
- whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the stuffed apples evenly.
- Prep Apples: Slice off the tops of the apples and carefully hollow out the centers, removing the core and seeds while leaving approximately a 1/4 inch thick shell to hold the filling.
- Make Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fill Apples: Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each hollowed apple carefully, filling them without overstuffing to avoid overflow during baking.
- Prepare Topping: Mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the tops of the filled apples for a crunchy finish.
- Arrange and Cover: Place the stuffed apples into a baking dish and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to help the apples cook through without over-browning the topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping turns golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked apples to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle chopped pecans, or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples work best due to their sturdy texture and balanced sweetness.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth filling and easier mixing.
- Do not overfill apples to prevent filling from spilling during baking.
- Optional toppings add extra flavor and texture but can be omitted for a simpler dessert.
- Use aluminum foil loosely to prevent the topping from burning while baking the apples thoroughly.
