Cheesecake-Stuffed Apples with Graham Cracker Topping

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect blend of tangy, sweet apples and rich, creamy cheesecake filling. The graham cracker crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender baked apples. This dessert is not only easy to make but also a fun twist on traditional cheesecake. The apples are cored and filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, then topped with graham cracker crumbs and baked to perfection. Drizzling lemon juice over the apples prevents them from browning too quickly and adds a touch of tartness to balance the sweetness. Serve these stuffed apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

Helpful Notes

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the topping. The rest of the recipe remains naturally gluten-free.
For a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar in the cheesecake filling or use a sugar substitute to make the dessert more diabetic-friendly.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, toast the graham cracker crumbs separately before adding them to the apples.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Ina Garten recommends using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape during baking and provide a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
Chef Martha Stewart suggests brushing the apples with a little melted butter before baking to enhance the flavor and ensure a golden-brown crust on top.
Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg in the filling for a spiced twist, adding extra warmth to the flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredients:

4-6 apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the apples and cheesecake filling.

Prepare the Apples:

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