Name: Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 baking apples such as Gala or Fuji, cored; 4 ounces (1/2 block or 4 tablespoons) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature and not cold to the touch (do not substitute fat-free); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1/4 cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzle (homemade or store-bought); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts plus more for garnish; Graham cracker crumbs, for garnish; Additional caramel sauce, for drizzle; Additional chopped walnuts, for garnish

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If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a crisp day, these Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are an absolute must-try. Imagine the perfect blend of tender, oven-baked apples filled with luscious, creamy cheesecake batter that’s rich, slightly sweet, and speckled with crunchy walnuts. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the soft fruit, decadent filling, and a touch of caramel sweetness that truly elevates this dish. Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are elegant yet simple enough to make on a weeknight, making them a top choice whenever you want to impress without fuss.

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cheesecake Stuffed Apples lies in the straightforward but complementary ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the naturally sweet apples to the creamy, indulgent filling, every component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life.

4 baking apples such as Gala or Fuji, cored: These apples hold their shape well when baked and provide a sweet and slightly tart base.
4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature: Cream cheese adds that rich, creamy texture that makes the filling irresistible—avoid sub fat-free to keep the texture perfect.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough to balance the tartness of the apples.
1 large egg, room temperature: Acts as a binder, helping the cheesecake filling set beautifully while maintaining creaminess.
1/4 cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzle: Adds a luscious, gooey sweetness that complements both apples and cream cheese perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, enhancing the flavors in the filling.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts plus more for garnish: Adds delightful crunch and a touch of earthiness to the creamy filling.
Graham cracker crumbs, for garnish: Provides a subtle crunch and a beautiful presentation touch.

How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Apples

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and ready your baking pan—an 8×8 inch or similarly sized casserole dish that can snugly hold the four apples works perfectly. This step ensures a smooth and even bake when the time comes.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together on medium-high speed using a paddle attachment if you have one—this whips the mixture until it is light and fluffy, the ideal texture for a smooth cheesecake layer. Scrape down the sides to make sure everything is well blended before adding the egg, which you then beat in until just combined.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture

Next, gently incorporate the caramel sauce and vanilla extract to give the batter its signature warmth and sweetness. Fold in the chopped walnuts, which will add a satisfyingly nutty crunch to every bite of your Cheesecake Stuffed Apples.

Step 4: Prepare and Stuff the Apples

Place the cored apples upright in your prepared baking dish. If the cores are small, carefully enlarge the center openings with a small knife to create more space for the filling—just be cautious not to cut too close to the edges, or the apples could split while baking. Spoon the decadent filling into each apple, filling them up generously.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the apples for 20 to 25 minutes, checking that the cheesecake filling sets nicely. It should be firm to the touch but might have a gentle wiggle—this tells you the texture will be just right: creamy, yet stable.

How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Apples

Garnishes

After baking, drizzle extra caramel sauce over each stuffed apple for an irresistible glossy finish. Sprinkle chopped walnuts and graham cracker crumbs on top to add both crunch and a pretty presentation. These little details make a big difference in the flavor and texture experience.

Side Dishes

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples are fantastic on their own but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can turn this dish into a show-stopping dessert. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a cup of warm spiced tea can also complement their autumnal flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve your Cheesecake Stuffed Apples on individual stylish plates topped with a sprig of fresh mint or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance. For a rustic vibe, arrange them in a wooden platter surrounded by more chopped nuts and a little bowl of caramel sauce on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place your Cheesecake Stuffed Apples in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to five days. This keeps the apples tender and the filling fresh, so you can enjoy them again without losing any delicious flavor or texture.

Freezing

While these stuffed apples are best fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze them for longer storage. Wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully to preserve their texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your Cheesecake Stuffed Apples gently in the oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as slow oven reheating helps keep the cheesecake filling creamy and the apple tender without sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Gala and Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape and are naturally sweet, feel free to try Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a slightly tarter twist. Just ensure the apples aren’t too soft to avoid mushy results after baking.

Is it okay to substitute low-fat cream cheese?

For the richest texture and best flavor, full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended. Low-fat or fat-free versions can alter the consistency and may cause the filling to be less creamy and more watery.

Can I prepare the apples ahead of time?

You can core and stuff the apples a few hours before baking, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. However, avoid stuffing them too far in advance, as the apples might soften and lose their structure.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce?

Homemade caramel is easy and tastes amazing! Simply melt sugar over medium heat until golden, then stir in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Let it cool before using. This adds a personalized touch to your Cheesecake Stuffed Apples.

What if I want to make this vegan or dairy-free?

While the classic recipe relies on cream cheese and egg, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese and egg substitutes, like flaxseed eggs. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples bring together the best of autumn’s bounty and classic dessert decadence in one beautiful, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy night in or serving guests at a festive gathering, these apples promise a symphony of flavors and textures that will make you smile with every bite. Go on—give them a try, and let this recipe become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Cheesecake Stuffed Apples Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and comforting Cheesecake Stuffed Apples featuring juicy baking apples filled with a creamy, sweet cheesecake mixture, baked to perfection and topped with caramel sauce, walnuts, and graham cracker crumbs for a delightful dessert or snack.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan or small casserole dish large enough to hold all 4 apples comfortably.
Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer on medium-high speed to beat together the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This aerates the filling and ensures smooth consistency.
Add Egg, Caramel, Vanilla, and Walnuts: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any cream cheese clumps. Beat in the egg thoroughly until incorporated, then add the caramel sauce and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts to add texture and flavor to the filling.
Stuff the Apples: Place the cored apples upright in the prepared baking pan. Using a spoon, fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture. If some apple cores are too small to hold enough filling, carefully widen the opening with a small knife, making sure not to cut too close to the apple edges to prevent cracking or leakage during baking.
Bake: Bake the stuffed apples in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set. The center may have a slight jiggle but should be firm to the touch when done.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, drizzling with extra caramel sauce and sprinkling additional chopped walnuts and graham cracker crumbs on top for crunch and added sweetness.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving to restore creaminess.

Notes

Use baking apples like Gala or Fuji as they hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
Do not substitute fat-free cream cheese as it affects texture and flavor.
Widen the apple core opening carefully to avoid breaking the apple walls.
Leftover stuffed apples can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and reheated gently for best texture.
Caramel sauce can be homemade or store-bought based on convenience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American