FOOD NEWS
How To Turn Standard Baked Apples Into A Decadent Dessert
BY KYLE GRACE MILLS
Baked apples tend to be a one-note dessert flavor-wise, but adding a tangy, luxe spiced cheesecake filling is perfect for adding a bit more complexity to this treat.
This simple recipe calls for a hollowed-out baked apple and a blended cream cheese filling that is flexible to numerous flavorings and twists, like pumpkin spice and caramel.
Start by using a melon baller or a cookie scoop to hollow out a firm apple, such as Pink Lady, Gala, or Granny Smith. Be sure to remove the core and seeds as you go.
Once you have a divot with about ½ inch left of the apple walls, begin rubbing the apple’s flesh with lemon juice to keep it from turning brown while you prepare the filling.
Next, whip together your cheesecake ingredients. For four apples, an 8-ounce block of cream cheese blended with ¼ to ½ cup sugar, an egg, and a bit of vanilla extract will work.
Feel free to add any additional flavoring that you desire, like pumpkin pie spice, almond extract, brown sugar, or even a bit of citrus zest. Then, fill the apples about ⅔ full.
Finally, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the filling is about set. Serve alongside creative flourishes.