Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe

Introduction

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining tart baked apples with creamy, cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings, offering a warm and comforting finish to any meal.

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

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweet cheesecake filling.
• Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the filling for extra warmth and spice.
• Swap nuts for dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity variation.
• To avoid apple leakage during baking, wrap the bottom of each apple with a small strip of foil to seal.

Storage

Store leftover cheesecake stuffed apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warm before serving. For best texture, enjoy them within a day or two.

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, but tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best as they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the filling.

What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a dairy-free version?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or blended silken tofu to maintain the creamy texture while keeping the recipe dairy-free.

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe

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Cheesecake Stuffed Apples combine juicy baked apples with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling, topped with a crunchy graham cracker and nut blend, then drizzled with caramel sauce for an indulgent yet comforting dessert perfect for fall or any occasion.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

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

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)

Topping

• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the apples evenly.
2. Prepare Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water, then pat them dry. Carefully remove the core from each apple while leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity perfect for stuffing.
3. Prevent Browning: Drizzle about a tablespoon of lemon juice inside each hollowed apple cavity to prevent discoloration during preparation.
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 Flavorings: Mix in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well incorporated for a rich, spiced filling.
6. Incorporate Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the mixture and stir until fully combined, creating a luscious, creamy cheesecake texture.
7. Fold in Crunch: Gently fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula to add texture to the filling.
8. Stuff the Apples: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each apple cavity with the cheesecake mixture, packing gently but firmly to maximize the filling.
9. Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish, spooning any leftover filling around the apples for extra indulgence.
10. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the apples are tender yet hold their shape.
11. Brown the Tops: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the filling tops to brown slightly and develop a delicate crust.
12. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the apples cool for about 10 minutes to set the filling before serving.
13. Finish and Serve: Drizzle the baked apples with caramel sauce and optionally sprinkle with extra cinnamon. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast.
14. Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

• Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor.
• Chopped nuts are optional but add great texture and flavor.
• Be careful not to overbake the apples; they should be tender but not mushy.
• Leftover cheesecake filling can be baked alongside the apples for extra treats.
• Serving with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream enhances the dessert experience.
• You can substitute caramel sauce with honey or maple syrup if preferred.

Keywords: cheesecake stuffed apples, baked apples dessert, creamy apple dessert, cinnamon cheesecake apples, fall dessert recipe