Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a perfect dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples with the creamy sweetness of cheesecake. Here’s how you can make this delicious treat:
Ingredients:
4 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work well)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 egg yolk
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (for topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Apples:
Slice the tops off the apples and scoop out the core and some of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of apple as a shell. Be careful not to cut through the bottom. You can use a melon baller or a small spoon for this.
Arrange the hollowed apples in a baking dish.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and egg yolk until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the Apples:
Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly into each hollowed-out apple, filling them almost to the top.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and cinnamon until combined.
Sprinkle this crumb mixture generously on top of the filled apples.
6. Bake:
Bake the stuffed apples in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set.
7. Serve:
Allow the apples to cool slightly before serving.
Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream if desired.
Tips:
Apple Variety: Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to hold up well during baking.
Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a spiced flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the apples ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
Enjoy your warm and creamy Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples, a perfect dessert for fall or any time you're craving a cozy, sweet treat!