How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples – A Perfect Fall Dessert

Ella
Ella
Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by...
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If you’re looking for the perfect fall dessert with a twist, cheesecake stuffed baked apples are about to become your new obsession. Juicy apples, creamy cheesecake filling, and a touch of warm spice come together for a treat that’s as comforting as it is impressive. One bite, and you’ll be hooked—read on to discover how to make this irresistible delight at home.

This cozy dessert recipe wraps classic American flavors in creamy cheesecake comfort.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 1 stuffed apple

Ingredients

  • 6 large baking apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 third cup granulated sugar
  • Half teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Additional graham cracker crumbs for topping

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Apple corer or paring knife
  • Spoon
  • Baking dish
  • Pastry brush
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat a baking dish with just enough butter or neutral oil to prevent sticking. You want all your apples to fit snugly so they do not tip over while baking.
  2. Step 2: Wash and dry your apples. Using an apple corer or a sharp paring knife, carefully remove the core from each apple, stopping just before you reach the bottom. You can use a spoon to help scoop out a nice well that will hold the filling. Aim for about one to one and a half inches in width. The goal is to have enough room for the cheesecake center without weakening the apple structure.
  3. Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg, sour cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon. Beat together with an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is silky smooth and fluffy. This mixture should be thick, almost like a soft frosting.
  4. Step 4: Use a spoon to evenly divide your cheesecake filling among the apples. Fill each cavity just below the rim of the apple. Do not overfill to avoid spillage while baking.
  5. Step 5: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle about one teaspoon on top of the cheesecake filling in each apple. This creates a beautiful golden topping that will remind you of your favorite cheesecake crust.
  6. Step 6: Arrange your filled apples upright in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the center rack of the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The apples should soften so that a fork slides in easily, and the cheesecake should puff slightly and set like a delicate custard. I like to check at the 30-minute mark and give them a few more minutes if they need it.
  7. Step 7: Remove the apples from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. They smell absolutely divine at this point. If you prefer a firmer filling, allow them to chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving. This gives the cheesecake center time to set fully, like a dense New York-style slice.
  8. Step 8: Just before serving, garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs or drizzle a little warm caramel sauce over the top. Serve as-is, or go decadent with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Either way, prepare to fall in love with every bite.

Nutrition per serving

Calories 290
Protein 4g
Carbohydrates 34g
Fat 17g
Sugar 27g
Fiber 4g
Sodium 115mg

Description

Cheesecake stuffed baked apples are the culinary embrace of fall’s finest offerings and indulgent dessert comfort. Imagine tender, warm apples with their centers gently hollowed and filled with a sweet, rich cheesecake filling. As they bake, the apples soften into spoon-tender bites while the creamy interior bakes into a soft and luscious cheesecake core. Each bite delivers the cozy warmth of apples paired with the creamy tang of cheesecake, wrapped in a dessert that feels both nostalgic and novel.

The aroma will fill your kitchen with cinnamon spice and vanilla warmth, capturing the essence of a crisp autumn afternoon. This dessert is like having the classic caramel apple and a slice of creamy cheesecake all in one dreamy spoonful. Whether served with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, a drizzle of caramel, or simply enjoyed as-is, these baked apples evoke the down-to-earth charm of home baking with a gourmet twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will love how effortlessly elegant this recipe is. It is easy enough for a weeknight treat yet beautiful and crowd-pleasing enough for a dinner party or holiday gathering. The ingredient list is simple and the process requires just a few basic steps, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned home cooks.

These cheesecake stuffed baked apples offer flexibility too. You can switch up the apple variety or add your favorite toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate drizzle. Plus, they are portion-controlled and naturally gluten free, so serving them is a breeze no matter your guests’ preferences.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve these baked apples warm from the oven or let them cool slightly for a firmer cheesecake texture. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds until warm. These do not freeze well due to the fresh fruit and soft filling, but you can prep ahead by stuffing the apples and refrigerating them uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.

For added flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel drizzle or add a few chopped toasted pecans on top. Both add lovely texture and balance to the sweetness.

FAQ

Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar?

Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste, keeping in mind the texture will change slightly if you do.

How do I make the cheesecake filling extra rich?

Use full-fat cream cheese and add an extra tablespoon of sour cream for added creaminess. You can also fold in a few mini white chocolate chips for a sweeter version.

What is the best way to core apples without an apple corer?

A small paring knife or grapefruit spoon works wonderfully. Just cut a circle around the stem about one inch wide and scoop downward then use a spoon to hollow a nice cavity carefully.

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Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples

Cheesecake stuffed baked apples are a cozy fall dessert featuring tender, hollowed apples filled with a creamy cheesecake mixture. Baked until the apples are soft and the filling is luscious, this dessert brings the nostalgic flavors of apple and cheesecake together, finished with a hint of cinnamon and a graham cracker crunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large baking apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Additional graham cracker crumbs for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish that will fit all the apples snugly.
  • Wash and dry apples. Use an apple corer or paring knife to remove the core from each apple, being careful not to puncture the bottom. Hollow out a cavity about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, egg, sour cream, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Use an electric hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly into the hollowed apples, filling each to just below the top.
  • In a small bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle about one teaspoon of this mixture on top of each filled apple.
  • Arrange the stuffed apples upright in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until apples are tender and cheesecake centers are set.
  • Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. For a firmer filling, chill in the fridge for an hour before serving.
  • Garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs or caramel drizzle if desired. Serve warm or chilled.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 17gSodium: 115mgFiber: 4gSugar: 27g
Keyword baked apples, cheesecake dessert, fall dessert, easy holiday recipes
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Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by home, travel, and the joy of simple ingredients. From cozy comfort food to bold global flavors, YummyHorizon is your place to explore, taste, and create. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, I'm here to guide you through flavorful journeys- one delicious recipe at a time. Welcome to my kitchen, where every meal opens a new horizon.