Cheesecake stuffed baked apples are like a warm hug on a chilly day, with each bite bursting with creamy goodness and the sweet aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen. Imagine biting into a tender apple, its skin slightly crisp, and revealing a luscious cheesecake filling that dances on your taste buds. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel all nostalgic, like when grandma would sneak you cookies when you thought she wasn’t looking.
These delectable treats are perfect for cozy family gatherings or a spontaneous weeknight indulgence. Picture yourself serving these beauties at a dinner party, and watch as your friends’ eyes light up! The anticipation builds as they take their first bite—trust me, it’s pure magic.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesecake stuffed baked apples are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks
- Their rich flavor profile combines the sweetness of apples with creamy cheesecake bliss
- Visually appealing, these stuffed apples look stunning on any plate, tempting everyone around
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an impressive dessert or a delightful brunch treat
Ingredients for Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Granny Smith Apples: These tart apples balance the sweetness of the cheesecake nicely; choose firm ones for better baking results.
Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for that rich, creamy texture; it’s essential for achieving the best flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Just enough sugar is needed to sweeten the cheesecake filling without overpowering the apple’s natural flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the cheesecake’s flavor; skip imitation extracts for best results.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice to both the filling and the baked apples; it’s a must-have!
Butter: Melted butter helps caramelize the apples while they bake; it also enhances their natural sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your apples will bake evenly and become perfectly tender while the cheesecake filling gets all melty and delicious.
Next, prepare your Granny Smith apples by washing them thoroughly. Carefully core each apple using an apple corer or a knife; be sure to leave about half an inch at the bottom so all that tasty filling stays inside.
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy—this is where you’ll experience that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Once your mixture is ready, spoon it generously into each prepared apple. Don’t be shy here; you want these little guys fully loaded with scrumptious cheesecake goodness!
Melt some butter in a small bowl and brush it over each filled apple. This step is crucial because it helps create that golden-brown exterior while baking—plus, who doesn’t love buttery deliciousness?
Place your stuffed apples in a baking dish and pour a little water into the bottom of the dish—just enough to cover about half an inch. This moisture helps steam the apples as they cook so they’ll be juicy rather than dried out.
Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell irresistible—just try not to burn your nose sniffing too eagerly!
Let them cool slightly before serving; this way you won’t scorch your tongue on that gooey cheesecake filling! Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or even a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
And there you have it! A delightful dessert that combines two classics: cheesecake and baked apples. Enjoy every last bite—your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- Cheesecake stuffed baked apples are not just a dessert; they’re a cozy hug in edible form
- Picture warm apples filled with creamy cheesecake goodness, all topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon
- This delightful treat is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home with a good book
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the apples. Core them, mix the cheesecake filling, then stuff the apples generously. Bake until they’re tender and the filling is bubbling to perfection. Timing is key for that melty, dreamy experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your cheesecake stuffed baked apples! Swap out cream cheese for mascarpone for added richness, or toss in some chocolate chips for a delightful surprise. You can also experiment with different spices or toppings like nuts or caramel sauce.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesecake stuffed baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or back into the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cheesecake stuffed baked apples, use firm apples like Granny Smith to hold their shape during baking
- Always taste your cheesecake filling before stuffing; adjust sweetness as desired
- Lastly, let them cool slightly before diving in to avoid burning your tongue!
I remember the first time I made cheesecake stuffed baked apples; my friends couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious they were. Their smiles said it all, and I knew I had stumbled upon a winner!
FAQs :
What are Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples?
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a delightful dessert combining baked apples with a rich cheesecake filling. The apples are cored and filled with a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, then baked until tender. This treat offers a perfect balance of sweetness from the apples and creaminess from the cheesecake, making it a popular choice for both special occasions and everyday desserts.
How do I make the cheesecake filling for the apples?
To create the cheesecake filling, start by blending cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract for flavor, and mix well. You can also incorporate sour cream or Greek yogurt for added tanginess. This creamy mixture is then spooned into the cored apples before baking. The filling should complement the natural sweetness of the apples beautifully.
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various apple types to make Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples. Popular choices include Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking. Each variety will contribute a unique flavor profile to your dish, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.
How long should I bake Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples?
Bake Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the apples used. They should be tender when pierced with a fork but not mushy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
Conclusion for Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples :
In summary, Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples offer a delightful dessert option that combines wholesome baked fruit with creamy cheesecake filling. Utilizing fresh apples allows you to customize flavors easily while maintaining a healthy twist on traditional desserts. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike. Enjoy these delicious treats warm from the oven or chilled as a refreshing snack!
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a warm and inviting dessert that combines the comforting sweetness of baked apples with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, making this treat perfect for cozy family gatherings or an indulgent weeknight dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a visually stunning and delicious dish that will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 Granny Smith apples
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the Granny Smith apples, leaving about half an inch at the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Generously spoon the cheesecake filling into each cored apple.
- Brush melted butter over each filled apple.
- Place stuffed apples in a baking dish with water covering about half an inch at the bottom.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed apple (140g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
