Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples Delight Recipe

The Most Heavenly Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples Delight Recipe

Cheesecake-filled baked apples create magic in dessert lovers’ hearts with their unexpected fusion of comfort and indulgence.

Rich cream cheese nestles inside tender, caramelized fruit, promising a reinventative culinary experience.

Warm spices dance through each delectable bite, awakening memories of cozy autumn afternoons.

Seasonal ingredients merge into a sophisticated yet approachable treat that surprises and satisfies.

Imagine cutting through a golden-baked apple to reveal a creamy, smooth interior that whispers sweet sophistication.

The contrast between soft fruit and velvety filling makes this dessert a conversation starter at any gathering.

When you want something extraordinary that feels both familiar and innovative, these baked apples deliver pure deliciousness.

Explore this recipe and watch ordinary ingredients become an extraordinary dessert sensation.

Cheesecake Baked Apples Overview

  • This recipe transforms classic baked apples into a decadent dessert by stuffing them with rich, velvety cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth.
  • With just a few easy steps and basic ingredients, you can create an impressive dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy bakery, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • The soft, tender baked apple pairs perfectly with the smooth cheesecake center, while the crunchy graham cracker topping adds an irresistible crispy element that makes each bite exciting.
  • By using fresh apples and controlling the ingredients, you get a lighter dessert that feels like a special treat without overwhelming guilt, making it a smart choice for those wanting a balanced sweet experience.

Ingredients for Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples

Primary Ingredients:
  • Apples: Sweet, crisp fruit that serves as the main vessel for the cheesecake filling. Firm baking varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best.
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy base for the filling, providing rich and smooth texture. Full-fat version recommended for best results.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Cinnamon: Classic flavor enhancers that add sweetness and warmth to the cheesecake mixture. Ground cinnamon provides deeper flavor than stick cinnamon.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs, Butter: Crunchy, buttery topping that adds texture and complementary flavor to the baked apples. Use fresh graham crackers for maximum crispness.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic element that prevents apple browning and adds subtle tanginess. Fresh lemon juice preferred over bottled.

Steps to Make Cheesecake Apples

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for a delightful dessert adventure.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Vessels

Wash apples thoroughly and carefully hollow out the centers using an apple corer or sharp paring knife. Keep the bottom intact to create a perfect filling holder.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Cream cheese
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon

Blend ingredients until silky smooth and completely integrated.

Step 4: Fill Apple Cores

Carefully spoon the luxurious cheesecake mixture into each apple cavity, ensuring a generous and even fill.

Step 5: Create Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Melted butter
  • Ground cinnamon

Stir until the mixture resembles coarse, sandy texture.

Step 6: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture generously over the filled apples, creating a delectable crown.

Step 7: Brighten With Citrus

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the prepared apples to enhance flavors and prevent browning.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Slide the apple creations into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for tender apples and a set cheesecake filling.

Step 9: Cool And Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the incredible blend of creamy cheesecake and baked apple goodness.

Pro Tips for Cheesecake Apples

  • Chill Cream Cheese First: Soften cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly.
  • Choose Firm Apples: Select crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
  • Core Carefully: Use a melon baller or sharp paring knife to remove apple cores cleanly, maintaining the bottom to prevent filling from leaking.
  • Prevent Browning: Immediately drizzle lemon juice over cut apples to prevent oxidation and keep them looking fresh and appetizing.
  • Check Doneness Wisely: Insert a toothpick into the apple's flesh to test tenderness, ensuring it's soft but not mushy while the cheesecake filling sets completely.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Apples

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat: Warm individual apples in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Serve: Enjoy cold or warm, adding a fresh dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Pairings for Cheesecake Apples

  • Pair with Sweet White Wine: Complement the rich, creamy cheesecake filling with a crisp Riesling or Moscato, which balances the dessert's sweetness and cuts through its richness.
  • Match with Warm Spiced Beverage: Serve alongside a hot cinnamon-infused apple cider or chai tea, enhancing the warm, comforting flavors of the baked apples and spices.
  • Garnish with Vanilla Ice Cream: Top the warm baked apples with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful temperature contrast and adding a smooth, creamy element to the dessert.
  • Add Caramel Drizzle Companion: Elevate the dessert with a light drizzle of salted caramel sauce, which intensifies the apples' natural sweetness and provides a luxurious finishing touch.

Cheesecake Apple Twists

  • Classic Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker topping with a rich caramel sauce drizzled over baked apples, adding depth and sweetness to the creamy filling.
  • Nutty Crunch Edition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the graham cracker topping for extra texture and a warm, toasted flavor profile.
  • Berry Swirl Version: Gently fold raspberry or strawberry preserves into the cheesecake mixture before filling apples, creating a vibrant fruity contrast with the creamy cheese.
  • Maple Pecan Fusion: Substitute some sugar with maple syrup in the filling and add a maple-glazed pecan topping for a decadent, autumnal-inspired dessert.

FAQs on Cheesecake Baked Apples

  • Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji work best because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice tartness.

  • How do I know when the baked apples are perfectly cooked?

The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheesecake filling will look set with a slight golden color on top. Baking typically takes 25-30 minutes.

  • Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the apples and filling up to a day in advance. Just store the filled apples covered in the refrigerator and bake right before serving for the best texture.

  • Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or use almond flour mixed with cinnamon as a topping alternative.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples Delight Recipe

Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples Delight Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sweet autumn magic meets classic dessert in this Cheesecake-Filled Baked Apples Delight. Warm spices and creamy cheesecake nestled inside tender baked apples create a comforting seasonal treat you’ll savor with pure joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (60 grams) graham cracker crumbs

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

  • ¼ cup (50 grams) sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Binding and Preparation Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Meticulously prepare your culinary workspace by establishing a preheated oven environment at 375°F, ensuring optimal baking conditions.
  2. Select pristine, unblemished apples and carefully excavate their cores, maintaining a solid base to cradle the luscious cheesecake filling.
  3. Craft a velvety cheesecake blend by thoroughly amalgamating cream cheese with granulated sweetener, aromatic vanilla essence, and warm cinnamon until achieving a silky, homogeneous consistency.
  4. Generously populate each hollowed apple vessel with the luxurious cheesecake concoction, allowing minimal overflow.
  5. Construct a crisp, textural graham cracker crown by combining finely pulverized graham crumbs with melted butter and a whisper of cinnamon, creating a golden, crumbly topping.
  6. Artfully distribute the graham cracker mixture atop the cheesecake-filled apples, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  7. Enhance the apples’ brightness by delicately cascading fresh lemon juice across their surfaces, which will prevent browning and introduce a subtle tangy undertone.
  8. Transfer the prepared apples to the preheated oven, allowing them to bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until the fruit achieves tender perfection and the internal filling sets with a gentle firmness.

Notes

  • Choose firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best baking results.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling that blends easily.
  • Check apple tenderness by piercing with a fork – they should be soft but not mushy when done.
  • Allow apples to cool for 10-15 minutes after baking to help the cheesecake filling set properly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 276
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 36 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star