Description
Delight in these warm, comforting cheesecake-stuffed baked apples, perfect for a cozy dessert. Crisp apples are hollowed out and filled with a creamy cheesecake mixture, topped with a buttery oat crumble, and baked until tender and golden. This simple yet elegant dessert combines tartness, sweetness, and creamy textures for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Apples
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work well)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese or heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Crumble Topping
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Core the Apples: Slice the top off each apple and carefully core the center, leaving about 1/2 inch of apple around the edges using an apple corer or sharp paring knife.
- Season the Apples: Place the cored apples into a baking dish. Brush the inside of each apple with lemon juice to prevent browning. Then drizzle melted butter inside and sprinkle granulated sugar and cinnamon over them for flavor.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Dairy: Add Greek yogurt or sour cream to the mixture and continue beating until fully combined. For a richer texture, optionally fold in whipped cream cheese or heavy cream.
- Fill the Apples: Spoon the cheesecake filling into each cored apple, packing it gently to fill completely.
- Prepare the Crumble: In a small bowl, mix rolled oats, granulated sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon.
- Add Butter to Crumble: Drizzle melted butter over the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
- Top the Apples: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the cheesecake-stuffed apples.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping turns golden brown.
- Test Doneness: Insert a fork into the side of an apple; it should be tender but still hold shape, not mushy.
- Serve: Allow the baked apples to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream, or sprinkle cinnamon for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best texture after baking.
- Brushing lemon juice inside the apples prevents discoloration and enhances flavor.
- Optional whipped cream cheese or heavy cream enriches the cheesecake filling for creamier texture.
- The crumble topping adds a pleasant crunch contrast to the creamy filling and soft apples.
- Let the apples cool slightly to avoid burning your mouth and to let flavors meld.
- Serve with caramel sauce or whipped cream to elevate the dessert experience.
- These apples can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
