Cheesecake Stuffed Apples

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are the perfect dessert mashup—creamy, rich cheesecake tucked inside tender baked apples with a hint of cinnamon and a buttery graham cracker topping. These elegant yet easy treats are a cozy twist on classic cheesecake, making them a standout for fall gatherings, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something sweet, warm, and satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cozy & Elegant – A beautiful, individually portioned dessert with classic flavors.
Simple Ingredients – Made with everyday pantry staples.
Perfectly Balanced – Tart apples, sweet cheesecake, and a crunchy topping.
No Crust Needed – All the flavor of cheesecake, baked right into the apple.
Great for Any Occasion – Impress your guests or treat yourself on a weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Apples:

• 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala recommended)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• Pinch of salt

For the Graham Cracker Topping:

• ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Optional Garnishes:

• Caramel sauce
• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• Whipped cream

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Apple corer or melon baller
• Spoon or paring knife
• Baking dish
• Small saucepan (optional, for garnishes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash the apples and slice off the top ½ inch to create a lid.
3. Use a melon baller or spoon to core and hollow out the apples, leaving about ½ inch of flesh around the sides and bottom.
4. Brush the inside of each apple with lemon juice to prevent browning.
5. Sprinkle the insides with a mix of cinnamon and brown sugar.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and salt.
3. Mix until the filling is creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Apples

1. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into each hollowed apple, filling nearly to the top.
2. Arrange the apples in a baking dish, standing upright and close together.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar.
2. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each filled apple.

Step 5: Bake the Apples

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the apples are tender and the filling is set.
3. Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Drizzle with caramel sauce or top with chopped nuts or whipped cream if desired.
2. Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Apples
Choose Firm Apples – Varieties like Honeycrisp and Fuji hold up well during baking.
Don’t Over-Hollow – Leave enough apple around the edges to support the filling.
Smooth Filling – Use room temperature cream cheese for a lump-free cheesecake center.
Add Texture – Chopped nuts or oats can be mixed into the topping for extra crunch.
Cool Before Serving – Let the filling set slightly before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions
Holiday Dessert Table – A beautiful alternative to pie.
After-Dinner Treat – Serve with hot coffee or spiced tea.
Brunch Treat – A warm, sweet option for your breakfast spread.
A La Mode – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• These do not freeze well due to the cheesecake texture.

Reheating:

• Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Avoid overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them a day ahead and reheat before serving. They also taste great chilled.

2. Do I need to peel the apples?
No, leave the skins on to help the apples hold their shape during baking.

3. What other toppings can I use?
Try crushed cookies, streusel, mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.

4. Can I use a dairy-free substitute?
Yes. Use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream for a dairy-free version, though texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts
Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are the ultimate cozy dessert—sweet, creamy, and full of comforting flavor. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, family dinner, or just because, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s simple enough for beginners and beautiful enough for special occasions.

Give it a try and let me know how you like it. Don’t forget to share your favorite toppings and tag your creations!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 160mg

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