Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apples (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Apple Filling

01 - 3 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 65 g granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
06 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

→ Cheesecake Filling

07 - 200 g cream cheese, softened
08 - 50 g granulated sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dough

10 - 10–12 pre-made pie crusts or homemade pie dough (rolled into 4–5 inch circles)

→ Frying

11 - Vegetable oil for frying

→ Glaze (Optional)

12 - 120 g powdered sugar
13 - 2 tablespoons milk
14 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
02 - In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
03 - Roll out the pie dough circles to about 4-5 inches in diameter if needed. Place 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling and 1 tablespoon of apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal by pressing the edges together with a fork. Chill the assembled pies in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
04 - Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 175°C. Fry the pies in batches, 2-3 at a time, for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
05 - If using glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm pies or dip them. Serve warm and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Optionally bake the pies at 190°C for 20-25 minutes with an egg wash for a golden crust.
02 - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
03 - Add a splash of caramel sauce to the apple filling for extra indulgence.