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If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that combines creamy cheesecake and warm spiced apples in a delightfully crispy shell, this Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine biting into a golden, perfectly fried pie bursting with luscious cheesecake filling and tender apple pie goodness — it’s like your favorite desserts had the best collaboration ever. Whether for a family gathering or a fun weekend indulgence, these mini pies will quickly become your go-to comfort dessert that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe is both simple and rewarding. Each component plays a crucial role, adding that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and a little bit of magic that takes these pies from ordinary to unforgettable.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: Using pre-made crusts speeds up preparation while delivering a flaky, buttery base for our pies.
- Apple pie filling: Sweet and spiced, the chopped apple filling offers that quintessential autumnal warmth inside every bite.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its creamy, tangy richness that complements the apples beautifully.
- Powdered sugar: A touch of sweetness that smooths out the cheesecake layer perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic depth and enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
- Cinnamon: The quintessential spice that brings cozy warmth and enhances the apple notes.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, providing that irresistible golden crisp exterior.
- Egg: Mixed with water for an egg wash that seals edges and creates a beautiful crust.
- Cinnamon sugar (optional): For coating warm pies and adding an extra touch of sweet spice.
How to Make Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Start by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you get a smooth, creamy blend. This luscious mixture is the heart of the stuffed cheesecake flavor that contrasts so wonderfully with the sweet apples.
Step 2: Shape Your Pie Crusts
Roll out your refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface for easier handling. Use a biscuit cutter or a round bowl about 4 inches wide to cut out perfect circles. This step creates the individual pie pockets that will hold our delicious stuffing.
Step 3: Fill the Pies
Place about a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling and a tablespoon of the chopped apple pie filling right in the center of each dough circle. This careful layering ensures every bite is packed with creamy, fruity goodness.
Step 4: Seal the Pies
Fold each dough circle over to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal. For an extra secure seal, brush the edges with a mixture of egg and water—this egg wash also helps the crust brown beautifully when fried.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pies in batches, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn irresistibly golden brown. This frying step gives the pies their signature crunchy exterior that contrasts with the soft fillings inside.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
Once fried, transfer the pies onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. While they’re still warm, toss them in cinnamon sugar if you like your pies with an extra layer of sweet spice and sparkle. This finishing touch elevates the flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Whether you prefer them warm straight from the fryer or cooled to room temperature, these stuffed pies are incredible either way. For a decadent treat, drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with more powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pies with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce to complement the rich cream cheese and sweet apples. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also make delightful companions that take this dessert to the next level.
Side Dishes
Serve these pies alongside a cup of hot coffee or spiced apple cider for a cozy combination that’s perfect for chilly afternoons. A crisp green salad can help balance the richness if you’re enjoying these pies as part of a larger meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange mini versions of these fried pies on a decorative platter, garnished with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. You can even serve them in individual mini baskets lined with festive napkins to make guests feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They keep crispy, but for the absolute best experience, enjoy them fresh whenever possible.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unfried pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
Reheating
To revive leftover pies, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method restores the crispy crust without making them soggy, unlike the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works beautifully if you prefer, and it can add a personal touch. Just make sure it’s rolled out evenly for consistent frying.
Is it necessary to fry or can I bake these pies?
While frying gives these pies their signature golden crispness, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes if you want a lighter version, though the texture will be different.
Can I prepare these pies in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pies ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. This makes them perfect for prepping before a party or busy day.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I have dietary restrictions?
Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can work in a pinch, though it might change the flavor slightly. Be sure to adjust sweetness to taste.
How do I ensure the pies don’t burst open while frying?
Sealing the edges firmly with a fork and using egg wash to help stick the dough together are key steps. Be careful not to overfill them, as too much filling can cause splitting.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe that brings together your favorite dessert flavors in one crispy, gooey package. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for all seasons and occasions. Trust me, once you try making these, they will become a warm, comforting classic in your recipe collection — so go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful delight.
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Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 mini pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies are a delightful twist on classic apple pies. Featuring a creamy cheesecake filling paired with warm, cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling inside a crispy, golden fried crust, these mini hand pies offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for dessert or special occasions, they’re easy to make and irresistible to enjoy warm with optional cinnamon sugar or caramel sauce.
Ingredients
Pie Crust and Filling
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts), softened
- 1 1/2 cups apple pie filling, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For Frying and Finishing
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 inches deep)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water
- Optional: cinnamon sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cut the pie crusts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Using a large biscuit cutter or bowl approximately 4 inches in diameter, cut out circular shapes from the dough to form the bases of your mini pies.
- Fill the pies: Place about 1 teaspoon of the prepared cheesecake filling onto the center of each dough circle. Top this with 1 tablespoon of chopped apple pie filling, ensuring not to overfill for easier sealing.
- Seal the pies: Fold each dough circle over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the pies. For extra sealing strength, mix the egg with water to create an egg wash and brush it along the edges before pressing them together.
- Fry the pies: Heat vegetable oil about 2 inches deep in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pies in batches, carefully placing them in the hot oil. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and coat: Remove the fried pies from oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. While still warm, toss the pies in cinnamon sugar if you desire an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
- Serve: These pies are best enjoyed warm but can be served cooled as well. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with additional powdered sugar for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Be sure not to overfill the pies to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
- Use a deep-frying thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for best results and safety.
- If cinnamon sugar coating is desired, toss pies immediately after frying while still warm to help the coating stick.
- Leftover pies can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.
- For a lower-fat version, consider baking the pies instead of frying, though the texture will be different.
