As a baker, I’m always looking for new ways to create desserts that are both delicious and easy to prepare. Today, I’m excited to share this Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples recipe with you. It’s the perfect combination of warm, tender apples with a creamy cheesecake filling, making it an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet snack, these baked apples will definitely impress. The creamy filling melts into the soft apples, and the slight caramelization from baking adds a beautiful touch of sweetness. I love how simple it is to make yet how elegant the result is.
Baked apples have been a classic dessert for years, but stuffing them with a cheesecake mixture takes them to a whole new level. The creamy cheesecake filling pairs wonderfully with the warm, baked apples, creating a balance of textures that is just perfect. Plus, you can add your own twist by topping them with your favorite fruits or nuts to make them even more special. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special holiday celebration. I’ve included all the details you need to recreate this delicious recipe, and I promise it will be a hit.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions so you can start baking these heavenly cheesecake stuffed apples in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly satisfying to make. Get ready for a deliciously sweet experience that’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients + How to Bake Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
Ingredients:
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6 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (or graham cracker crumbs)
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
How to Bake:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will allow the apples to bake evenly while softening perfectly without burning.
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Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly, and then slice off the tops, creating a flat surface. Use a spoon or melon baller to carefully scoop out the core, leaving the bottom of the apple intact. Be sure to scoop deep enough to create space for the cheesecake filling, but don’t break through the bottom of the apple.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sour cream. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. Then, stir in the crushed graham crackers to give the filling some texture. This will give it that signature cheesecake crust flavor.
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Stuff the Apples: Carefully spoon the cheesecake filling into each apple, packing it gently to ensure it fills up all the hollowed space. Don’t overfill, as the filling will expand as it bakes.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish, standing upright. Pour the melted butter over the apples, ensuring each one is coated. Then, sprinkle brown sugar over the top of each apple and, if desired, a pinch of ground nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
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Bake the Apples: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The apples should be tender, and the cheesecake filling will start to slightly brown and caramelize on top. Keep an eye on them, as baking time can vary depending on the size of the apples. You want them soft enough to easily pierce with a fork, but not too mushy.
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Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the apples from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm for the best experience. These cheesecake stuffed baked apples are perfect as a dessert or even as a treat for breakfast.
Feel free to drizzle some extra honey or caramel sauce on top for added sweetness. These apples are versatile and can be customized with nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra flair. Enjoy the delicious balance of creamy cheesecake filling and tender baked apples in every bite!
How Long to Bake… How to Store Leftovers… Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
How Long to Bake: The baking time for these cheesecake stuffed baked apples is about 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but it can vary depending on the size and type of apples you’re using. The key to knowing when they’re done is checking the tenderness of the apples. They should be soft enough that you can easily pierce them with a fork, but still hold their shape. The cheesecake filling will slightly caramelize on top, adding a golden color and a sweet, baked flavor. Be sure to check the apples around the 35-minute mark to avoid overcooking, as they can become too soft if left in the oven for too long.
How to Store Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt it, these are delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the stuffed apples in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the oven method helps to maintain that crispy top and keeps the apples from getting too soggy. If you prefer, you can eat them cold as well – they still taste amazing!
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples:
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Choose the Right Apples: Some apple varieties hold up better to baking than others. Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, making them a great choice because they don’t break down during baking. Honeycrisp apples, on the other hand, are sweet and still maintain their shape. If you’re unsure, just look for apples that are firm and not overly ripe.
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Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to fill the apples to the brim with the cheesecake filling, be sure to leave a little room at the top. The filling will expand slightly as it bakes, and you don’t want it spilling over too much. A gentle spoonful per apple will give you the perfect balance.
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Add Crunch for Extra Texture: If you like a little crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake filling.
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Drizzle with Sweetness: For an extra indulgence, you can drizzle a bit of caramel sauce or honey on top of the apples just before serving. This little touch can elevate the dessert and add another layer of sweetness.
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Experiment with Spices: If you’re a fan of spices, try adding a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice to the cheesecake filling. These spices will add a lovely warmth and complexity to the flavor, making the dessert even more comforting.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create the perfect cheesecake stuffed baked apples that are a crowd-pleaser every time! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes! While cream cheese is the traditional choice for cheesecake fillings, you can experiment with other cheeses for a unique twist. For example, mascarpone cheese provides a rich and creamy texture that’s similar to cream cheese but with a slightly different flavor. Ricotta cheese can also work if you prefer a lighter filling. Just keep in mind that the consistency might change slightly depending on the cheese you choose.
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Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! These cheesecake stuffed baked apples can be prepared ahead of time. You can stuff the apples with the cheesecake filling, then cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as instructed. Alternatively, you can bake them in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
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What can I serve these cheesecake stuffed apples with? These baked apples make a wonderful standalone dessert, but they can be paired with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you want to make it even more decadent, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top. A cup of hot tea or coffee makes for the perfect beverage pairing.
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Can I freeze these cheesecake stuffed apples? Yes, you can freeze them! If you’d like to make these ahead of time for a special occasion, you can freeze the stuffed apples before baking. Simply prepare the apples, stuff them with the cheesecake filling, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out of the freezer and bake them as you would fresh apples. Keep in mind that frozen apples may take a little longer to bake, so check for tenderness after 40 minutes.
These FAQs should answer some common questions about making cheesecake stuffed baked apples. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out!
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Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe – Easy Dessert
- Total Time: 55-60
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a simple yet decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft, warm apples filled with creamy cheesecake filling is truly irresistible. The addition of a buttery crumble topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dessert for a chilly evening or an impressive treat for guests, these stuffed apples are sure to delight. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create an unforgettable dessert that everyone will love!
Ingredients
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6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite variety)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (or graham cracker crumbs)
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Wash the apples and slice off the tops. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out the cores, creating a cavity for the filling.
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In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the crushed graham crackers.
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Stuff each apple with the cheesecake filling, packing it gently to fill the cavity.
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Place the stuffed apples in the prepared baking dish and drizzle the melted butter over them. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of each apple.
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Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is slightly golden.
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Let the apples cool slightly before serving. Optional: Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Notes
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For an extra crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
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If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
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These apples can also be made ahead and frozen. Just bake from frozen when you’re ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes