Description
A delightful fusion of cheesecake and baked apples.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 Apples – Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- 8 oz Cream cheese – Softened to room temperature.
- 1/4 cup Sugar – Adjust according to your taste preference.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract – Adds a rich, warm flavor to the cheesecake filling.
- 1 tsp Cinnamon – For that classic, warm spice that complements the apples.
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice – Helps to balance the sweetness and adds a hint of tartness.
- 1/2 cup Graham cracker crumbs – For that essential cheesecake crust flavor.
- 2 tbsp Butter – Melted, to bind the graham cracker crumbs.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature. While the oven heats, wash and core the apples carefully. Leaving the bottom intact creates a small cavity that will hold the creamy cheesecake filling, preventing it from spilling out during baking. Use a spoon or a melon baller to carefully scoop out the inside of each apple, ensuring you don’t pierce through the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until they are smooth and creamy. This filling is what transforms your ordinary baked apples into something extraordinary. Make sure to taste the mixture as you work — if you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to adjust the sugar levels to your liking.
- Next, take your prepared apples and carefully fill them with the luscious cheesecake mixture. Use a spoon to pack it in gently but firmly, ensuring you maximize the filling inside each apple. The more filling, the better! As you fill, keep an eye on the top of the apples; they should be filled just to the rim without overflowing.
- In another bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon until the crumbs are evenly coated. This mixture provides that iconic cheesecake crust flavor on top of the apples. Sprinkle this crumb mixture generously over each stuffed apple, pressing it lightly to help it stick. This step is essential; it gives your baked apples that extra crunch and flavor.
- Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and drizzle with lemon juice to enhance flavor while keeping the apples from browning too quickly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender yet still hold their shape. You’ll know they’re done when the apples yield to gentle pressure but are not mushy. Let the apples cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve the baked apples warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Protein: 3 g