Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples combine two beloved desserts—creamy cheesecake and warm baked apples—into one irresistible treat. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave comfort, these apples are hollowed, filled with luscious cheesecake batter, and baked until tender. The result is a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and lightly spiced, with the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a cozy family dessert. When I made this with honeycrisp apples, the natural sweetness paired beautifully with the creamy filling. Top them with caramel sauce, crushed graham crackers, or a dusting of cinnamon, and you have a dessert that tastes like fall in every bite.
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples – A Cozy Dessert Twist
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm, tender baked apples filled with a rich and creamy cheesecake mixture, topped with a touch of cinnamon and graham cracker crumbs for a cozy, fall-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (50g) crushed graham crackers
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cut off the tops of the apples and scoop out the cores and some flesh, leaving about 1/2 inch thickness around the sides.
- Brush the insides of the apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly into the hollowed apples.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the mixture on top of each filled apple.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until apples are tender and cheesecake is set.
- Cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use firm apples that hold their shape when baked, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
- Can be served warm or chilled.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples – Choose firm, baking varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for the best texture.
Cream cheese – The base of the cheesecake filling; smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy.
Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake mixture and balances the tartness of the apples.
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the cheesecake flavor.
Egg – Binds the cheesecake filling and gives it a custard-like texture once baked.
Cinnamon – A classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples and cheesecake.
Graham cracker crumbs – Sprinkled on top or mixed in for crunch and a hint of classic cheesecake flavor.
Butter – Melted butter helps the crumbs brown beautifully.
Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
Caramel sauce (optional) – Drizzle on top for a decadent finish.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the tops off the apples and use a spoon or melon baller to carefully hollow out the centers, removing the core and seeds while leaving sturdy walls.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, egg, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and creamy. Spoon the cheesecake filling into each hollowed apple, filling almost to the top.
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and pour about 1/2 inch of water into the bottom of the dish to prevent scorching. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set.
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the baked apples. For extra indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each apple before serving. Serve slightly warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Equipment needed
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking dish
- Apple corer or paring knife
- Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4–6 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, baking time 30 minutes, for a total of 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover baked apples in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or enjoy chilled for a creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the apples mushy.
Variations and Customizations
Crumble Topping – Add a streusel made from oats, butter, and brown sugar for extra crunch.
Caramel Pecan Twist – Top with caramel sauce and toasted pecans for a nutty finish.
Maple Cheesecake Filling – Replace sugar with maple syrup for a rich fall flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate instead of caramel for a decadent version.
Pumpkin Spice – Add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the cheesecake filling for a seasonal twist.
Mini Version – Use smaller apples for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.
Crust Layer – Add a layer of graham crumbs at the bottom of the apple before adding filling.
Honey Infusion – Add a tablespoon of honey to the cheesecake mixture for natural sweetness.
Apple Pie Blend – Mix diced apples into the cheesecake filling for extra texture.
Vegan Option – Use dairy-free cream cheese and flaxseed egg for a plant-based version.
FAQs
What apples are best for baking?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape and balance sweetness well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked apples up to a day in advance, then bake before serving.
Do I need to peel the apples?
No, the skin helps hold the structure while baking.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives a creamier, richer texture.
Can I skip the egg?
The egg helps the filling set, but you can use 1 tablespoon cornstarch instead.
How do I know when the apples are done?
They should be tender but not collapsing, and the filling should look set.
Can I freeze baked apples?
Freezing isn’t ideal as the apples can turn watery when thawed.
What toppings go best?
Caramel sauce, whipped cream, or crushed graham crackers are perfect choices.
Can I use a muffin tin for baking?
Yes, it helps keep the apples upright while baking.
Are these good served cold?
Yes, chilled baked apples taste like mini cheesecake cups.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a deliciously creative dessert that combines the creamy luxury of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of baked apples. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy evenings, this recipe is simple to make yet impressively elegant. Whether drizzled with caramel or topped with graham crumbs, these baked apples deliver all the flavors of fall in one unforgettable bite. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.