Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightfully cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug, the Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Combining the natural sweetness and slight tartness of baked apples with a creamy, luscious cheesecake filling, this dessert delivers a comforting balance of flavors and textures. Topped with a crunchy oat crumble, these baked apples are the ultimate treat to share with family or friends during any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each play a vital role in making the Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe shine. From the tartness of Granny Smith apples to the richness of cream cheese, every component brings something special to the table.

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala): These apples hold their shape well when baked and bring a wonderful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a fresh zing.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create a beautiful golden top.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Provides the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tart apple flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Gives a warm, aromatic spice note that pairs beautifully with apples.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for the smooth and creamy filling inside the apples.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Blends seamlessly into the cream cheese for a silky, sweet taste.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth with a hint of sweet vanilla.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds tanginess and makes the filling extra moist and luscious.
• 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese or heavy cream (optional): For those who love their cheesecake super creamy, this ingredient ups the indulgence.
• 1/4 cup rolled oats: Key to creating a crunchy, textured crumble topping that complements the soft apples.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Sweetens the crumble topping just right.
• 1 tbsp flour: Binds the crumble ingredients together for a perfect crisp finish.
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle, spicy warmth to the crumble topping.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Makes the crumble golden and just crumbly enough.

How to Make Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right for gently baking the apples until tender without losing their shape.

Step 2: Core the Apples

Slice the top off each apple and carefully remove the core, leaving about half an inch of apple flesh all around. Using an apple corer or a small paring knife makes this task easier. This hollow space will be where your luscious cheesecake filling goes, so take care not to puncture through the sides or bottom.

Step 3: Prep the Apples for Baking

Place the cored apples in your baking dish. Brush the insides with lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a touch of bright flavor. Drizzle the melted butter on and then sprinkle with granulated sugar and cinnamon, which adds a beautiful glaze and warm, spiced aroma as they bake.

Step 4: Create the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth and creamy. The sweetness balances the tang of the cream cheese, making the filling irresistibly dreamy.

Step 5: Add Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream

Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream to give the filling a tangy kick and extra creaminess. If you want to elevate your dessert even more, fold in whipped cream cheese or heavy cream for an ultra-rich texture that’s simply divine.

Step 6: Stuff the Apples

Gently spoon the cheesecake mixture into each apple’s hollowed center, packing it in evenly but carefully so it doesn’t spill over. This step is where your dessert starts to take shape into something truly magical.

Step 7: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the rolled oats, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. This combination will create a wonderful sweet and spiced topping, adding texture and contrast to the creamy filling.

Step 8: Add Butter to the Crumble

Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly with just the right amount of chew—this will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 9: Top the Stuffed Apples

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over each cheesecake-filled apple. This crunchy layer is the perfect foiled finish to the soft, creamy interior.

Step 10: Bake the Apples

Pop your apples into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape, and the crumble is golden. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork slides easily into the side of an apple without it turning mushy.

How to Serve Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe

Garnishes

Once the baked apples have cooled slightly, feel free to dress them up with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a dusting of extra cinnamon. These simple touches turn your dessert into an irresistible treat that’s as elegant as it is comforting.

Side Dishes

Serve these stuffed apples alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit compote for added freshness and contrast. A warm cup of spiced tea or coffee pairs beautifully as well, making this a perfect dessert to enjoy any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try placing each stuffed apple in a small individual ramekin, or serve them atop a bed of walnut halves or toasted pecans to add an extra crunch. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top of the crumble for a new flavor dimension that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the crumble topping crisp by storing it separately if possible, then reheat just before serving.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy this dessert fresh, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed apples before adding the crumble topping. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, add the crumble topping and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the baked apples in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the apples overly soft and compromise the texture of the crumble.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples are recommended for their balance of tartness and ability to hold their shape, feel free to experiment with any apple you love. Just remember that sweeter apples will yield a sweeter dessert.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese filling?

You can substitute regular cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives made from cashews, almonds, or coconut. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing, and the texture will be just as creamy and delicious.

Can I make the crumble topping in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just sprinkle it over the apples right before baking to keep it crisp and fresh.

How can I make the filling less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the powdered sugar in the filling by half. The natural sweetness of the apples combined with cinnamon will still provide plenty of delicious flavor.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt or sour cream?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt or sour cream on hand, plain yogurt or crème fraîche are good alternatives that will still add the slight tang and creamy texture needed for the filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe — it’s cozy, comforting, and effortlessly impressive all at once. Whether you’re baking for a loved one, a festive occasion, or just because, these little delights bring warmth and joy to any table. I can’t wait for you to try making these delicious baked apples and experience for yourself how simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical.

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