Ingredients
- 6 large apples (preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions can be your best friend in the kitchen. If you prefer a sweeter apple, try using Fuji or Gala. For a healthier twist, swap the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully hollow out the cores of the apples, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling. This step always reminds me of the meticulous care my grandmother took when preparing her dishes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed-out apple, filling them generously.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture over the top of each apple.
- Place the apples in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheesecake filling is set. The aroma will transport you to a cozy autumn day, much like the ones I cherish from my childhood.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the delightful combination of warm, spiced apple and creamy cheesecake with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International