Description
These Cheesecake-Stuffed Baked Apples combine the tartness of baked apples with the creamy richness of cheesecake filling, topped with a crunchy oat crumble. This delightful dessert is perfect for a cozy evening treat and delivers a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and spiced flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Apples
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the 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)
For the 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). 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 a paring knife.
- Coat the Apples: Place the cored apples in a baking dish. Brush the inside of each apple with lemon juice to prevent browning, then drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar and cinnamon to coat evenly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add Greek yogurt or sour cream and mix until well combined. Optionally, add whipped cream cheese or heavy cream for richer texture.
- Fill the Apples: Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each apple, gently packing it until fully stuffed.
- Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a small bowl, combine rolled oats, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Drizzle melted butter over the mixture and stir until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the filled apples, covering the cheesecake filling completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender (check by inserting a fork) and the crumble topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the baked apples to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream, or sprinkle with cinnamon for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling and topping to your sweetness preference.
- You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream, depending on taste and availability.
- For a richer filling, adding whipped cream cheese or heavy cream is optional but recommended.
- The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy filling and soft apple.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
