Baked Apples Stuffed with Cheesecake 🍏🍰
Discover a delightful fusion of warm, tender apples filled with rich and creamy cheesecake in this unique dessert. These Baked Apples Stuffed with Cheesecake are a delicious twist on traditional treats, blending the cozy flavors of baked apples with the luxurious taste of cheesecake. Perfect for a comforting dessert or an impressive dinner party treat!
🔸 Ingredients 🔸
- For the Apples:
- 5 small apples, cored (keep the bottoms intact)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened (or Neufchâtel cheese)
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 medium egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)
🔹 Instructions 🔹
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Apples
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
- Core the apples, ensuring the bottoms remain intact to hold the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, caramel sauce, egg, sugar, and apple pie spice.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 3: Fill the Apples
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each cored apple, filling about two-thirds full. Be careful not to overfill, as the mixture may expand slightly during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Apples
- Place the filled apples on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
- Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Transfer the apples to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using) and drizzle with additional caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the baked apples warm, savoring the tender texture of the apples and the creamy richness of the cheesecake filling.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Baked Apples
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji to hold their shape during baking.
- Prevent Overfilling: Fill only two-thirds to avoid spills while baking.
- Add a Crunchy Garnish: Chopped nuts or granola add texture and complement the creamy filling beautifully.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these apples ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare and bake them a few hours in advance. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have apple pie spice?
A: Substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice.
Q: Can I use other fillings?
A: Absolutely! Swap the cheesecake filling for a mix of oats, brown sugar, and butter for a classic baked apple dessert.
🚩 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake: Overbaking the apples.
- Solution: Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
Mistake: Using the wrong apples.
- Solution: Choose firm apples that don’t turn mushy during baking.
Mistake: Filling spills over during baking.
- Solution: Leave space in the apple and use a lined baking sheet for easier cleanup.
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