Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples: A Decadent Dessert Delight
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with our Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples. This exquisite dessert blends the creamy richness of cheesecake filling with the wholesome goodness of baked apples, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Cost: $$
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and creamy. The soft, warm apples pair beautifully with the smooth cheesecake filling, creating a comforting dessert that’s both simple and pleasing. It’s ideal for fall gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Context/Background
The tradition of baking apples has been cherished in American cuisine for generations. By adding a cheesecake twist, we’ve modernized this classic treat while preserving its nostalgic essence. The creamy filling brings a luxurious texture that transforms an everyday fruit into a gourmet delight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the apples, leading to a mushy texture
- Using apples that are too tart
- Filling the apples too loosely
- Skipping the graham cracker topping, which binds the flavors
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
- Choose apples that hold their shape when baked
- Compact the cheesecake filling firmly into the apples
- Add nuts for an extra crunch
- Serve slightly warm for the best texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Use ricotta cheese for a lighter filling
- Substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup
- Add raisins or cranberries to the filling for extra flavor
- Use walnuts or pecans for different textures
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy them as a decadent dessert after a cozy autumn meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving to enjoy the full flavors.
Make Ahead Instructions
You can prepare the cheesecake filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the apples just before baking for a fresh taste.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 30g
Dietary Notes
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (with suitable graham cracker alternatives)
The Recipe
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Apple corer or melon baller
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
Ingredients
- 4 large apples
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples keeping their bottoms intact. Scoop out some flesh to make room for the filling.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture, packing it tightly.
- Optionally, top with nuts for a crunch.
- Place apples in a baking dish, sprinkle graham crumbs on top, and add butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the apples are tender and filling set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Choose firmer apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- The filling can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.
Community Tips and Photos
Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #cheesecakestuffedapples on social media.
Questions and Answers
- Can I use a different type of cheese? While cream cheese provides the best texture, ricotta or mascarpone may be used as alternatives.
- How do I prevent the apples from tipping over? Use a baking dish that fits the apples snugly to keep them upright during baking.