If you are ready to delight your taste buds with a dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of fall with a luscious twist, the Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe is exactly what you need. These pies are golden pockets of joy, filled with a sweet and tangy apple mixture perfectly balanced by creamy cheesecake filling, all wrapped in a crispy, flaky crust. Whether you’re looking for a fun treat to serve at your next gathering or a special homemade dessert to cozy up with, this recipe brings a delightful crunch and luxurious creaminess in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a starring role in delivering the classic flavor and texture that makes these stuffed pies irresistible. From the tangy cream cheese filling to the spiced apple chunk filling, every component adds richness and warmth.
- Apple pie filling (2 cups): Chopped into small pieces to provide sweet, tender chunks throughout the pies.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a cozy spice that complements the apples beautifully.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Gives the pies a luscious, tangy creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the fruit.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling to silky perfection.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cheesecake flavor with a warm, comforting note.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (1 package): Quick and convenient dough that creates the perfect flaky shell for the pies.
- Egg (1, beaten): Used for an egg wash to seal the pies and give them a beautiful golden color.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Combined with cinnamon to coat the fried pies, adding a sweet crunch.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Mixed with sugar for the outer coating to bring that signature spiced finish.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the pies to a perfect golden crisp.
- Caramel sauce (optional): A decadent drizzle that takes these pies to the next level.
How to Make Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple and Cheesecake Fillings
Begin by stirring the apple pie filling with cinnamon to distribute that warm spice evenly, setting it aside so the flavors meld. Next, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. These two fillings form the heart of your pies, offering the perfect balance of sweet fruit and rich cheesecake.
Step 2: Shape the Pie Crusts
Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface and use a 5-inch cutter or small bowl to cut out circles. These pieces will become your individual pies, providing the sturdy but flaky shell that holds the fillings inside perfectly. This step is key because uniform circles ensure even cooking and a neat presentation.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Pies
Place about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling and 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture in the center of each pie crust circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the edges with the beaten egg to help everything stick together during frying. This careful sealing prevents leaks and keeps your pies looking perfect.
Step 4: Fry the Pies to Golden Perfection
Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) — a thermometer is helpful here to maintain the right temperature. Fry the pies in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once fried, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. The frying creates a crispy exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy and fruity filling inside.
Step 5: Add a Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon on a shallow plate. While the pies are still warm, roll them gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. This final step adds a crunchy, sweet spice layer that is simply irresistible and makes these pies extra festive.
How to Serve Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, drizzle the pies with warm caramel sauce for extra gooey sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream also works beautifully to complement the rich flavors inside the pies.
Side Dishes
Serve these pies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of spiced chai tea to create a cozy, comforting dessert experience. Fresh fruit or a simple green salad can also balance the richness on your plate if you’re serving these for a special event.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these golden treats on a rustic wooden platter or wrap each pie in parchment paper tied with a pretty ribbon for a charming presentation. For parties, use colorful napkins or garnish the serving plate with apple slices and cinnamon sticks to highlight the flavors inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.
Freezing
If you want to keep these pies longer, freeze them before frying by placing the sealed pies on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and fry directly from frozen following the same frying instructions—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp. This method restores their delightful crunch and melty filling without sogginess.
FAQs
Can I bake the Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, brush the pies with egg wash and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Baking still delivers a delicious result with less oil.
What type of cheese is best for the cheesecake filling?
Cream cheese is ideal because of its smooth texture and mild tang, which balances nicely with the sweetness of the apple filling and sugar.
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated dough?
Yes, homemade crust works wonderfully. Just roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness before cutting circles to ensure the pies have a flaky, crisp shell.
How do I prevent the pies from bursting during frying?
Make sure to seal the edges well by pressing firmly with a fork and using egg wash as glue. Avoid overfilling to give the dough room to seal tightly.
Is it okay to substitute the apple pie filling with fresh apples?
You can, though chopping apples finely and pre-cooking them with sugar and cinnamon helps achieve the soft, sweet texture needed inside the pies.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way the Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe melds rich, creamy cheesecake with warm, spiced apples in a crispy crust. This recipe is not just a dessert but a joyful experience to share and savor. I encourage you to whip up a batch — your kitchen will smell like autumn, and every bite will feel like a celebration of comfort and flavor!
Print
Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these decadent Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies, featuring a creamy cheesecake filling combined with classic spiced apple pie filling inside a crispy, golden fried crust. Perfectly rolled and fried to perfection, these hand pies offer a warm, indulgent dessert experience, enhanced by a cinnamon sugar coating and optional caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Ideal for fall gatherings or any time you crave a comforting, fried treat.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 2 cups apple pie filling (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust and Coating
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Serving
- Caramel sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a small bowl, mix the chopped apple pie filling with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Cut Pie Crusts: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts and, using a 5-inch cutter or a small bowl, cut the dough into circles to create the base for the pies.
- Assemble Pies: On each dough circle, place 1 tablespoon of the cheesecake filling followed by 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Brush the edges with beaten egg wash to ensure a tight seal during frying.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Monitor the temperature carefully for even cooking.
- Fry the Pies: Fry the pies in batches, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn a rich golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the fried pies and drain on paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then roll the warm pies in this mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve: Present the pies warm, optionally drizzling with caramel sauce for added sweetness and indulgence.
Notes
- For a baked alternative, brush the sealed pies with egg wash and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- These pies can be prepared ahead of time and reheated in an oven or air fryer for convenience.
- Make sure to monitor oil temperature closely to prevent greasy or undercooked pies.
- Use a gentle hand when sealing edges with a fork to avoid filling leakage during frying.
