If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the creamy richness of cheesecake, this Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples recipe is for you. Perfect for fall or anytime you want a cozy treat, these baked apples are stuffed with a smooth cream cheese filling, baked until tender, and ready to enjoy in just under an hour.

Ingredients

Apples (4-6 depending on size)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Optional: Cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a pinch of salt for added flavor

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Core the apples, creating a hollow cavity in the center. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract.
Stuff each apple with the cream cheese mixture, pressing gently to fill the cavity.
Place the stuffed apples on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is lightly golden on top.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Variations

Toppings: Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the cream cheese mixture for a spiced flavor.
Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries to the cream cheese filling for extra sweetness and variety.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cheesecake stuffed baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

10 FAQs

Can I use any type of apple? Yes, apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith work well. Choose apples that are firm and can hold their shape during baking.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed apples in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add more sugar to the cream cheese filling? Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. You can also use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option.
Can I freeze these apples? While it’s not ideal to freeze the apples after baking, you can freeze the stuffed apples before baking. Bake them from frozen, but increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
How do I prevent the apples from getting mushy? Make sure not to overbake the apples. Check for tenderness after 25 minutes and remove them from the oven once they are just soft but not falling apart.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though the texture might be slightly different.
Can I add a crumble topping? Absolutely! A crumbly topping of oats, brown sugar, and butter can add a nice crunch to the baked apples.
Are these apples gluten-free? Yes, these cheesecake stuffed baked apples are naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients for any optional toppings.
Can I make these without sugar? Yes, you can substitute sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol for a low-sugar or sugar-free version.
How do I know when the apples are done baking? The apples should be fork-tender when pierced, and the cream cheese filling should be lightly golden on top.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the goodness of fresh apples with a creamy, sweet cheesecake filling. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy evening or serving them for a holiday gathering, these baked apples are sure to be a hit. They are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings while keeping things light and comforting.