Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesecake stuffed baked apples are not only delicious but also easy to prepare! The combination of the soft, tender apples with the creamy, spiced cheesecake filling is irresistible. The graham cracker topping adds a crunchy contrast, while the caramel drizzle and whipped cream make every bite feel indulgent. It's the perfect dessert to enjoy in the fall or anytime you're craving something sweet and comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for serving
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Apples:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Cut off the tops of the apples and use a spoon to carefully hollow out the cores, creating a well for the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to cut through the bottoms of the apples.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
Fill the Apples:
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each hollowed-out apple, filling them generously and mounding the mixture on top if desired.
Add Graham Cracker Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until combined.
- Sprinkle this graham cracker mixture evenly over the tops of the filled apples.
Bake the Apples:
- Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish, adding a small amount of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set.
Serve:
- Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream.
- Serve warm for the best flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Different fruits: You can swap the apples for pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the cheesecake filling for extra warmth and flavor.
- Nutty topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker topping for a crunchy, nutty texture.
- Chocolate drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle the baked apples with chocolate sauce instead of caramel.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake stuffed apples in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes! You can use any apple variety that is good for baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala.
2. Can I make the cheesecake filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just stuff the apples right before baking.
3. How do I know when the apples are done baking?
The apples are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the cheesecake filling is slightly firm.
4. Can I make these apples ahead of time?
While the apples are best served fresh, you can prepare them and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.
5. Can I freeze these cheesecake stuffed apples?
It’s best to avoid freezing the stuffed apples because the texture of the apples may change. However, you can freeze the cheesecake filling separately and use it for future batches.
6. Can I use non-dairy cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy cream cheese substitute for a vegan-friendly version of this dessert.
7. How can I make the topping crunchier?
To make the topping crunchier, toast the graham cracker crumbs in a skillet with the butter for 2-3 minutes before sprinkling it on top of the apples.
8. Can I skip the caramel sauce?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter dessert, you can skip the caramel sauce and enjoy the cheesecake-stuffed apples as they are.
9. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?
Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs work just as well as homemade. Make sure to check for any added sugar if you're watching your sweetness.
10. Can I serve these apples cold?
While these apples are best served warm, you can refrigerate and enjoy them cold if preferred.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect cozy dessert, with the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and warmth. With a simple yet decadent combination of cheesecake filling, spiced apples, and graham cracker topping, this dessert will quickly become a favorite. Top it with whipped cream and caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress!
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect dessert for any occasion. A warm, cozy treat, combining tender baked apples with a creamy cheesecake filling, graham cracker crumbs, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. This indulgent yet easy-to-make dessert is full of flavor and texture, making it the ideal comforting treat for the fall or any time you crave something sweet.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Cut the tops off the apples and carefully hollow out the centers.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Stuff each apple with the cheesecake mixture, mounding it on top.
- In a separate bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the stuffed apples.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and add a small amount of water to the bottom.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is set.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Different Fruits: Try using pears or peaches for a unique twist.
- Spices: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.
- Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Swap caramel sauce for chocolate sauce for a decadent twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American