Heres a fantastic recipe for Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Applesa cozy, decadent dessert thats perfect for fall or any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Apples:
4 large apples Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work well
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg yolk
For the Crumb Topping:
1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond flour for gluten-free
1/4 cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons brown sugar or a keto-friendly sweetener
2 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and diced
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350F 175C.
Slice the tops off the apples and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core and some flesh, creating a hollow center. Be careful not to break through the bottom of the apple.
Mix the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture inside the hollowed apples.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy.
Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the hollowed apples, filling them about 3/4 of the way.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cheesecake filling in each apple.
Step 4: Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Add about 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent the apples from sticking and to create steam during baking.
Bake the apples for 30-35 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape and the topping is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Let the apples cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce or top with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
For a nutty twist, mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the filling or omit the crumb topping.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 daysjust reheat before serving.
These Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a delightful treat combining the warmth of baked apples with the creaminess of cheesecake. Perfect for dessert or even a special brunch!