Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a delightful dessert that combines the warmth and sweetness of baked apples with a creamy cheesecake filling. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a comforting, guilt-free dessert. The cream cheese filling adds a rich, smooth texture, while the baked apples provide a naturally sweet and tender contrast.
Ingredients
- Apples (6 medium-sized)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples, creating a hollow cavity in the center, leaving the skin intact.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and well-combined.
- Stuff each apple with the cream cheese mixture, packing it in gently.
- Place the stuffed apples on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesecake stuffed baked apples!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Add spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an added touch of sweetness.
- Nutty topping: Top the stuffed apples with crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for some crunch.
- Fruit variations: Use pears instead of apples for a different twist on this dish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the stuffed apples in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use any type of apple? Yes, apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala work well because they hold their shape when baked.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the apples and fill them with the cream cheese mixture, then store them in the refrigerator and bake them when you’re ready.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted, but the texture might be slightly different.
- How do I prevent the apples from getting too soft? Don’t overbake the apples. Check them after 25 minutes to ensure they are tender but not mushy.
- Can I add a crumble topping to this dish? Yes, a crumble topping made with oats, butter, and sugar would complement the apples nicely.
- How can I make this dessert vegan? Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a sweetener like maple syrup instead of sugar.
- Can I make individual servings? Absolutely! You can bake individual stuffed apples for each person to enjoy.
- Can I freeze these stuffed apples? While freezing them after baking is possible, the texture of the apples may change slightly when reheated.
- What can I serve this with? Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing touch.
- What other fillings can I use for stuffed apples? Try using a mixture of ricotta and honey, or even a caramel-flavored filling for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a comforting and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any time of year. With a creamy cheesecake filling and a soft, tender baked apple, this dish offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering or a special treat, these stuffed apples are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.