Name: Cheesecake Stuffed Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487533H53M22S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup crushed graham crackers; ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans); ¼ cup caramel sauce (for drizzling); 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning of apples)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m a huge fan of turning classic desserts into something new, and these Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are a perfect example. Tender baked apples are stuffed with a creamy, sweet cheesecake filling, creating a comforting dessert that’s both warm and indulgent. The caramel drizzle and cinnamon add an extra layer of sweetness, making it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a cozy dessert at home, this one is sure to impress.

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples

ingredients

(Hear’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans)
1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning of apples)

directions

First, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
I wash the apples thoroughly and pat them dry. After that, I carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity. I drizzle a little lemon juice inside the apples to prevent them from browning.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar and beat it on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
I then add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Next, I add the sour cream and continue mixing until fully combined.
I gently fold in the crushed graham crackers and chopped nuts (if I’m using them) with a spatula.
I stuff each apple with the cheesecake mixture using a spoon or piping bag, packing it gently but firmly.
I place the filled apples upright in a baking dish and spoon any leftover filling around them. Then, I cover the dish with aluminum foil.
I bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender but not mushy.
After removing the foil, I bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the tops brown slightly.
I let the apples cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Finally, I drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with extra cinnamon, if desired. For an extra treat, I serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Sometimes, I swap the nuts for a nut-free option or use different apple varieties depending on the sweetness and tartness I prefer. I’ve even tried adding a bit of honey to the filling to make it sweeter, and it worked beautifully. You can also try swapping out the caramel drizzle for a chocolate sauce for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, I simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them up in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other apple varieties?

I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their balance of tartness and sweetness, but feel free to experiment with other varieties based on your preference.

How do I prevent the apples from getting mushy?

I make sure to bake the apples until they’re tender, but not overdone. The second baking time (without foil) helps to brown the tops while keeping the apples intact.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the apples and stuff them in advance. I keep them in the fridge and bake them just before serving. This saves time if I’m preparing for a party or dinner.

What can I serve with these stuffed apples?

These Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of extra cinnamon. If I want to make them even richer, I add extra caramel sauce on top.

Are these gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, I simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure the caramel sauce is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are the perfect cozy dessert for any occasion. The combination of tender apples and creamy cheesecake filling, topped with caramel and cinnamon, creates an irresistible treat. Whether for a dinner party or a simple evening at home, I know these will always be a hit with family and friends.