I love combining classic desserts with a fresh twist, and these cheesecake stuffed baked apples do just that. They bring together the warmth of baked apples with the creamy richness of cheesecake, making a perfect treat that feels both cozy and indulgent.
Ingredients
Apples
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I wash and core the apples carefully, making sure to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling.
In a bowl, I mix the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
I fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture, pressing gently to pack it in evenly.
In another bowl, I combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, then press this mixture on top of each stuffed apple.
I place the apples in a baking dish and drizzle lemon juice over them to keep the apples fresh and add brightness.
I bake them for about 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set.
Once out of the oven, I let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect warm, creamy dessert.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes 25-30 minutes, so the total time is roughly 40-45 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes like to add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the graham cracker topping for extra crunch. Another variation I enjoy is mixing a little maple syrup or honey into the cheesecake filling for a subtle natural sweetness. For a seasonal twist, adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling can deepen the flavor. If I want a lighter option, I swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt, but it won’t be as rich and creamy.
Storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the apples soft and the filling creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! I prefer tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold up well to baking and balance the sweetness of the filling.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, I sometimes prepare the apples and filling ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just add the graham cracker topping and bake when ready.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese?
Yes, I’ve used dairy-free cream cheese substitutes and it works well, though the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. I swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts to keep it gluten-free.
What can I serve these with?
I like serving these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Conclusion
This cheesecake stuffed baked apples recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert combination with minimal effort. I appreciate how it’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for sharing or treating myself. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night at home, these baked apples never fail to satisfy my sweet tooth while feeling a little special.
Recipe:

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and indulgent dessert combining warm baked apples with creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
4 apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and core the apples carefully, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
- Fill each apple with the cheesecake mixture, pressing gently to pack it in evenly.
- In another bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, then press this mixture on top of each stuffed apple.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and drizzle lemon juice over them to keep the apples fresh and add brightness.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving for the perfect warm, creamy dessert.
Notes
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the graham cracker topping for extra crunch.
Mix maple syrup or honey into the cheesecake filling for a natural sweetness.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a seasonal twist.
For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt (less creamy).
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to keep soft and creamy.
Use gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts to make it gluten-free.
Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed baked apple
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg