Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake. These baked apples are filled with a velvety cheesecake mixture, topped with a touch of cinnamon, and baked to perfection. It’s an indulgent yet lighter dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you’re craving something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These baked apples are a fun twist on traditional cheesecake. The warm apples provide a perfect contrast to the creamy, tangy filling, and the cinnamon and brown sugar create a comforting flavor. It’s an easy, one-pan dessert that feels special and indulgent but is simple to make. Plus, they’re gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with a few substitutions!

Ingredients

For the Apples:

• 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or any apple that holds its shape when baked)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a tangier taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup granola (optional)

• Whipped cream or caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut yogurt or cashew cream.)

Directions

Prepare the Apples:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice off the top of each apple and carefully remove the core, creating a hollow space for the cheesecake filling.

3. Place the apples in a baking dish. Brush the outsides and interiors of the apples with the melted butter.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture evenly inside each apple, filling the core.

5. Bake the apples for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender but still hold their shape.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the vanilla extract, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and lemon juice, and continue mixing until the filling is smooth and fluffy.

3. Once the apples are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Assemble the Cheesecake Stuffed Apples:

1. Spoon the cheesecake filling into the hollowed-out apples, dividing it evenly between the four apples.

2. Return the stuffed apples to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is lightly set and the apples are soft.

3. Remove from the oven and let the apples cool slightly before serving.

Optional Topping:

1. If desired, sprinkle granola over the cheesecake filling for crunch.

2. Drizzle with whipped cream or caramel sauce for added richness.

Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 stuffed apples. Prep time is about 10 minutes, bake time is 35-40 minutes, making the total time about 45 minutes.

Variations
I like to:

• Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cheesecake filling for extra texture.

• Use a mix of apples for a more complex flavor profile.

• Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sweetness.

• Use a scoop of vanilla ice cream instead of whipped cream for a dessert with more indulgence.

Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 30-40 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any apple that holds its shape when baked. Granny Smith, Gala, and Fuji apples all work well for this recipe.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff the apples with the cheesecake filling and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking them the second time.

Can I make these without the cheesecake filling?
Sure! You could fill the apples with a crumble topping or a simple butter and brown sugar filling for a lighter version.

Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect balance of warm, soft apples and creamy cheesecake filling, creating a decadent yet comforting dessert. They’re easy to make, and their individual servings make them great for a dinner party or cozy evening treat. This dessert is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a healthy yet indulgent way.

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