Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe
Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are a delightful twist on classic desserts, combining tender baked apples with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling. This easy-to-make treat features a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cinnamon, and crunchy graham crackers stuffed into cored apples, baked to perfection and drizzled with caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
- Author: Mia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed apples evenly.
- Prepare the apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water, pat dry, then carefully remove the core from each apple, making sure to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling.
- Prevent browning: Drizzle lemon juice inside each apple cavity to keep them from turning brown during preparation and baking.
- Make cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
- Add sour cream and mix: Stir in the sour cream until fully combined, creating a rich and tangy cheesecake base.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Gently fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula, maintaining a slightly chunky texture.
- Fill the apples: Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each apple cavity with the cheesecake mixture, packing it gently but firmly for a full and uniform filling.
- Arrange for baking: Place the filled apples upright in a baking dish, spoon any leftover filling around the apples for extra flavor and moisture.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the apples are tender but retain their shape.
- Brown the tops: Remove the foil and return the apples to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to lightly brown the cheesecake topping.
- Cool slightly: Let the baked apples cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set properly.
- Add finishing touches and serve: Drizzle the stuffed apples with caramel sauce and optionally sprinkle extra cinnamon on top. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast.
- Store leftovers: Allow any leftover stuffed apples to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to hold their shape during baking.
- Optional nuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Use lemon juice immediately after coring apples to prevent browning.
- Baking time may vary depending on apple size and oven, so check tenderness with a fork.
- Serve warm for the best flavor experience; leftovers can be gently reheated.
- For added texture, sprinkle extra crushed graham crackers on top before browning.
Keywords: Cheesecake stuffed apples, baked apples dessert, creamy apple dessert, cinnamon apples, stuffed fruit dessert, caramel drizzle dessert