When the sweet aroma of baked apples fills your kitchen, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender apple, bursting with creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are not just a dessert; they are an experience that can make any gathering feel special.
I remember the first time I made these delightful treats. My family was skeptical at first, thinking fruit couldn’t possibly be dessert. But once they took that first bite, their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning. Now, these apples have become our go-to treat for fall gatherings and cozy nights in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are super easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat
- The combination of warm baked apples and creamy cheesecake is simply irresistible
- Visually stunning, they make an elegant addition to any plate or table setting
- Versatile enough to serve as a dessert or snack, they’re sure to please everyone
I once brought these to a potluck, and people were practically fighting over the last one—definitely a win in my book!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for that rich and creamy consistency we all crave.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake filling; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the cheesecake’s flavor beautifully.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, perfect for the autumn vibe.
Walnuts (optional): Chopped walnuts provide a delightful crunch if you like some texture in your filling.
Butter: Melting butter drizzled over the apples helps them caramelize perfectly in the oven.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your favorite baking dish and set it aside—it’ll be holding all that goodness soon enough.
Prepare Your Apples: Core each apple carefully so you have plenty of room for that luscious cheesecake filling. I always use a melon baller for this task—it’s handy!
Create the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and walnuts until smooth. You want it creamy but not too runny—think fluffy clouds of deliciousness.
Fill Those Apples Up!: Generously spoon the cheesecake mixture into each apple core. Pack it in there because you want every bite to be heavenly! Place them upright in your baking dish.
Add Some Butter Magic: Melt butter and drizzle it over each stuffed apple; this is where the magic happens! It caramelizes while baking and creates a heavenly glaze.
Bake to Perfection: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out; when they start smelling like heaven and look golden brown, they’re ready!
Enjoy serving these hot out of the oven with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if you’re feeling indulgent!
With each bite of these Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples, you’ll find yourself lost in flavors that dance between sweet and tart. They’re not just another dessert; they’re memories waiting to happen around your dinner table. So go ahead—treat yourself!
You Must Know
- Cheesecake stuffed baked apples blend fruity sweetness with creamy richness, making them an irresistible dessert
- The warm spices and gooey filling create a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge
- Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples and mix the cheesecake filling while they bake for perfect timing and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter filling or sprinkle some nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick warm-up, but enjoy fresh out of the oven when possible.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When selecting apples, opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, ensuring they hold their shape during baking
- Adjust sweetness levels based on your preference by adding more sugar or using honey
- Don’t forget to let them cool slightly before serving!
Every time I make cheesecake stuffed baked apples, my friends rave about how they taste like autumn wrapped in happiness. It’s become our go-to dessert at family gatherings!
FAQ
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Yes, pears work wonderfully as an alternative fruit for this recipe.
How long do I bake the apples?
Bake the apples for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
What can I serve with cheesecake stuffed baked apples?
Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of baked apples with a creamy cheesecake filling. Infused with warm spices and topped with a drizzle of buttery goodness, these treats create a cozy aroma in your kitchen. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights, they promise to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core each apple carefully using a melon baller, leaving enough space for the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and walnuts until smooth.
- Generously fill each apple core with the cheesecake mixture.
- Drizzle melted butter over each stuffed apple.
- Place apples upright in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and tender.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed apple (200g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For a lighter filling, substitute ricotta cheese for cream cheese. Add extra crunch by topping with additional nuts or oats before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
