Indulge in the autumn vibes with these Cheesecake-Stuffed Apples! This delightful dessert marries the tartness of fresh apples with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling and a satisfying graham cracker topping. Ideal for fall, when apples are bursting with flavor, this dish offers a fresh twist on traditional cheesecake. The soft and tender baked apples perfectly complement the rich filling, while the graham cracker layer adds that irresistible crunch.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake-Stuffed Apples

This recipe beautifully blends the classic flavors of cheesecake with warm, baked apples, making for a dessert that feels both cozy and luxurious. The contrast of the sweet, creamy filling against the slightly tart apples will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Serve it warm for an inviting dessert or surprise your guests with this delightful fall treat!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Honey or caramel sauce for drizzling (optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the perfect baking environment.
2. Prepare the apples: Carefully slice off the tops of each apple and hollow out the centers, removing all the core and seeds to create room for the cheesecake filling.
3. Make the cheesecake filling: In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and the egg. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling is the star of the show!
4. Fill the apples: Generously spoon the cheesecake mixture into the hollowed centers of each apple, making sure to fill them to the brim.
5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and cinnamon. This will create a delightful crispy topping.
6. Top the apples: Sprinkle your graham cracker mixture generously over the cheesecake filling in each apple, allowing it to create a beautiful crunchy layer as it bakes.
7. Bake: Place the stuffed apples into a baking dish and pop them into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling has set.
8. Serve: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle the warm stuffed apples with honey or caramel sauce before serving. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These Cheesecake-Stuffed Apples are best served warm straight from the oven. They can be enjoyed as they are, or you can elevate the experience with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
• Storage: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

• If you want an extra bit of crunch and flavor, consider adding some chopped nuts over the graham cracker topping before baking.
• No graham crackers? No problem! Crushed digestive biscuits or any sweet cookie crumbs can serve as an excellent substitute.
• To save time, feel free to make the cheesecake filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fill the apples and bake them.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
   Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are popular choices, you can opt for any firm apple variety, such as Fuji or Pink Lady, to achieve a sweeter flavor.
2. How do I prevent the apples from browning?
   Lightly brushing the cut surfaces of the apples with lemon juice is an effective way to keep them from turning brown before you fill them with cheesecake.
3. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep both the apples and the filling in advance. Just store them in the fridge, then fill and bake them when you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to sprinkle the graham cracker topping on just before baking, so it stays crispy.
4. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
   Crushed digestive biscuits or even crumbled oatmeal cookies can serve as a tasty alternative if you don’t have graham crackers on hand.
5. Do I have to peel the apples?
   No, there’s no need to peel the apples for this recipe! The skin helps maintain their shape while baking and looks beautiful on your plate.