Introduction to Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re like me, you’ll agree that life can get pretty hectic, especially when you’re juggling family, work, and everything in between. That’s why I absolutely adore these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples! They’re not just a treat for the eyes; they bring a sweet burst of nostalgia with every bite. Perfect for those busy afternoons or a fun family gathering, these decadent delights promise to impress both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re fun to make! So, why not spice up your dessert game with this delightful creation?
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
You’re going to adore these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples for so many reasons! First off, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for those busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The vibrant flavor of strawberries is irresistible, and that creamy cheesecake twist? It’s pure magic! Plus, they’re visually stunning – a feast for the eyes that will have everyone begging for seconds. Trust me; everyone will love them!
Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Here’s what you’ll need to create these luscious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples. Don’t worry; I’ll keep it simple, and you can find exact measurements at the end!
- Medium apples: I recommend Honeycrisp or Fuji for the perfect blend of sweetness and crunch.
- Sturdy sticks or striped paper straws: These make for easy handling and add a charming touch!
- White candy melts or white chocolate chips: The creamy coating that makes these apples irresistible.
- Vegetable shortening (or heavy cream): This helps smooth out the candy melts for a perfect dip!
- Cheesecake extract (or vanilla extract): For that dreamy cheesecake flavor! Feel free to use vanilla if cheesecake isn’t available.
- Parchment paper: It’s a must-have for easy cleanup and preventing the chocolate from sticking.
- Freeze-dried strawberries: These add an intense strawberry flavor and a beautiful crunch! You can even experiment with other freeze-dried fruits.
- Golden Oreos: These provide the delightful crunch factor! Regular Oreos also work if you prefer.
- Melted butter: It helps bind the crunch mixture together.
- Red candy melts or strawberry-flavored chocolate: These are used for the lovely strawberry drizzle. They also add a pop of color!
- Vegetable oil: Just a touch to ensure your drizzle goes on smoothly.
- Heavy whipping cream: The star ingredient for the fluffy cheesecake whipped cream!
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape.
- Cream cheese: Adds that rich cheesecake creaminess!
- Vanilla extract: A little boost of flavor for the whipped cream.
- Fresh strawberries: They’re the perfect garnish! Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra fruit on top?
- Optional: Consider adding pink sugar crystals or extra strawberry crunch for a decorative touch!
Each ingredient plays a role in making these candy apples a delightful dessert. Gather them up, and let’s get ready to create some magic! Remember, you can find the exact quantities of everything at the bottom of this article, so no need to worry about jotting it all down immediately.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Creating these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples is a breeze! With a little patience and a few helpful tips, you’ll have a stunning and delicious treat that will wow everyone. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
First things first, let’s get those apples ready! Rinse them under cool water to remove any dirt and wax. Dry each apple thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent the candy coating from sliding off.
To secure those sticks, carefully dip each apple in hot water for a few seconds, then wipe them dry. This step helps loosen the wax coating. Once they’re dry, firmly insert a stick or straw into the top of each apple. Chill the apples in the fridge for around 15–20 minutes to set them up for success!
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Crunch
Now, let’s get to the fun part: the crunch! Take your Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries and crush them into a fine mixture. You can do this either in a food processor or by placing them in a zip bag and smashing them with a rolling pin.
You’re aiming for a texture similar to coarse sand. Once crushed, mix in melted butter to bind everything together. Spread this yummy crunch mixture onto a parchment-lined tray, and set it aside while you prepare the apples.
Step 3: Coat the Apples
It’s time to coat those lovely apples in a smooth, creamy layer! Start by melting your white candy melts with a tablespoon of vegetable shortening in the microwave. Do this in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until it’s silky smooth. Stir in the cheesecake extract to enhance the flavor.
Once melted, dip each chilled apple into the candy coating, swirling it for an even layer. Don’t be shy with the coating! While the coating’s still wet, roll the lower half of the apple in the strawberry crunch mixture. Set each coated apple on the parchment paper for about 15 minutes to allow them to harden.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Drizzle
Let’s pretty these apples up! Melt the red candy melts with a drizzle of vegetable oil until it’s fluid and easy to work with. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drizzle the melted candy over the top of each apple, creating a glossy and inviting finish.
Keep it simple or get creative with patterns—you can’t go wrong here! Once finished, let them set until the chocolate hardens completely.
Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Whipped Cream
While the apples are setting, it’s time to whip up some heavenly cheesecake whipped cream! Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a bowl until it’s smooth. Add heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl.
Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form – this is your fluffy topping! Transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a beautiful swirl on top of each apple.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Your masterpiece is almost complete! Pipe a swirl of that luscious cheesecake whipped cream onto the top of each apple. Finish off with a fresh strawberry placed right on top and a sprinkle of pink sugar crystals or extra strawberry crunch for that wow factor.
For the best experience, keep the apples chilled until you’re ready to serve them. This will keep everything firm and creamy, ensuring each bite is absolutely delicious!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to thoroughly dry your apples after washing to help the coating stick.
- Use high-quality chocolate melts for the best flavor and easy melting.
- Chill your coated apples to help set the candy faster.
- Experiment with different fruits or cookies for your crunch mixture.
- Let the drizzle cool before applying for a smoother finish.
Equipment Needed
- Medium pot: For melting candy; a microwave-safe bowl works too.
- Parchment paper: Great for cleanup; a silicone baking mat is a good alternative.
- Piping bag: Essential for whipped cream; a zip bag with the corner snipped also works.
- Food processor: For crushing ingredients; a rolling pin and zip bag will do fine.
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap the white candy melts for dark chocolate for a rich flavor twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the strawberry crunch mixture for an extra crunchy texture.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free chocolate and replace the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats!
- Spiced Apple Delight: Sprinkle some cinnamon or pumpkin spice onto the apples before dipping for a seasonal touch.
- Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different freeze-dried fruits such as raspberries or blueberries for unique flavor combinations.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these delightful candy apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert moment.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- For drinks, consider sparkling lemonade or a chilled berry smoothie to match the flavors.
- Display them on a colorful platter for an eye-catching centerpiece!
FAQs about Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are my favorites, you can use any medium-sized apples like Granny Smith or Gala. Just make sure they’re firm and fresh for the best results!
How do I store leftover candy apples?
To keep them fresh, store your Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within a few days but will hold well for up to a week.
Can I make these candy apples in advance?
Yes, you can! These candy apples can be prepared a day ahead. Just make sure to keep them chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. They’ll be a hit at any gathering!
What if I can’t find cheesecake extract?
No worries! You can easily substitute it with vanilla extract. It’ll still give your coating a lovely flavor, although it might not be as rich as the cheesecake version.
Are there any gluten-free options available?
Sure! To make these candy apples gluten-free, choose gluten-free cookies for the crunch mixture, like gluten-free Oreos. They’ll still taste amazing!
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples aren’t just a treat; they’re a celebration! Each vibrant bite brings together creamy cheesecake, tart strawberries, and a delightful crunch that dances on your palate. They’re perfect for all occasions, turning a simple dessert into a joyful event. Plus, making them with your loved ones can be a wonderful bonding activity! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these candy apples promise sweet smiles all around. So gather your family, share some laughs, and indulge in this scrumptious treat. I guarantee you’ll cherish every delightful moment spent enjoying them!
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Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious strawberry-flavored candy apples with a cheesecake twist, topped with a crunchy strawberry mixture.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 6 sturdy sticks or striped paper straws
- 2 cups white candy melts or white chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable shortening (or heavy cream)
- 1 tsp cheesecake extract (or vanilla extract)
- Parchment paper for setting
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 12 Golden Oreos, finely crushed
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ cup red candy melts or strawberry-flavored chocolate
- 1 tsp vegetable oil (for smoothness)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 small fresh strawberries
- Optional: pink sugar crystals or strawberry crunch crumbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry apples thoroughly. Remove the waxy layer by dipping apples briefly in hot water, then wipe dry. Insert a stick or straw firmly into each apple. Chill the apples in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
- Make the Strawberry Crunch: In a food processor or zip bag, crush Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until crumbly. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Spread the crumble on a parchment-lined tray and set aside.
- Coat the Apples: Melt the white candy melts with shortening in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in cheesecake extract for flavor. Dip each chilled apple into the melted coating, swirling for an even layer. While still wet, roll the lower half of the apple in the strawberry crunch mixture. Set on parchment to firm up (about 15 minutes).
- Add the Strawberry Drizzle: Melt red candy melts with a bit of oil until fluid. Using a piping bag or spoon, drizzle over the top of each coated apple for a glossy, decorative finish. Let them set fully before topping.
- Make the Cheesecake Whipped Cream: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, whipping until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag with a star tip and pipe a swirl on top of each apple.
- Garnish and Serve: Place a fresh strawberry on top of the whipped cream. Sprinkle with pink sugar or extra strawberry crunch. Keep chilled until ready to serve for a firm, creamy bite.
Notes
- Make sure the apples are thoroughly dried before coating.
- For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate melts.
- These are best enjoyed when kept chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
