Introduction to Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia and indulgence, you’ve landed in the right place. These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a sweet escape from the everyday hustle. Imagine biting into a crisp apple, coated in creamy white chocolate, and topped with a crunchy strawberry crumble. It’s the perfect dessert to impress your friends or to enjoy during a cozy night in. Trust me, this recipe is a quick solution for any celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples are a game-changer in the dessert world! They’re incredibly easy to make, even for a busy weeknight. The combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy strawberry goodness is simply irresistible. Plus, they look stunning on any table, making them a showstopper for gatherings. You’ll love how quickly they come together, leaving you more time to enjoy with family and friends!
Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Medium Apples: I love using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for their sweetness and crunch. They hold up beautifully under the coating.
- Sturdy Sticks or Striped Paper Straws: These will serve as the handles. Choose something that can support the weight of the apple.
- White Candy Melts or White Chocolate Chips: This creamy coating is essential for that luscious outer layer. You can also use chocolate chips if that’s what you have on hand.
- Vegetable Shortening or Heavy Cream: This helps to achieve a smooth melting consistency for the candy melts.
- Cheesecake Extract or Vanilla Extract: For that rich, creamy flavor, cheesecake extract is a must. Vanilla works too if you’re in a pinch.
- Parchment Paper: A lifesaver for setting the coated apples without sticking.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These add a burst of strawberry flavor and a beautiful crunch. You can find them in most grocery stores.
- Golden Oreos: Crushed to create the strawberry crunch. They add a sweet, cookie-like texture that pairs perfectly with the apples.
- Melted Butter: This binds the Oreo and strawberry mixture together, giving it that sandy texture.
- Red Candy Melts or Strawberry-Flavored Chocolate: For that gorgeous drizzle on top, these add a pop of color and flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: A little bit helps the red candy melts to flow smoothly for drizzling.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: This is the base for our cheesecake whipped cream, making it rich and fluffy.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape.
- Cream Cheese: Adds that classic cheesecake flavor to the whipped cream. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Fresh Strawberries: These are the perfect garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
- Optional: Pink sugar crystals or extra strawberry crunch crumbs for garnish. They add a fun touch and extra sweetness!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
Prepare the Apples
First things first, we need to prep our apples. Start by washing them thoroughly under cool water. This step is crucial because it removes any waxy coating that can prevent our delicious chocolate from sticking.
After washing, dry each apple completely with a clean towel. Trust me, this makes a world of difference! Once they’re dry, insert a sturdy stick or striped paper straw into the top of each apple. This will be your handle, so make sure it’s secure.
Now, pop those apples in the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling them helps the coating set better later on. Plus, it’s a great way to keep them crisp!
Make the Strawberry Crunch
Next up, let’s create that irresistible strawberry crunch! Grab a food processor or a zip bag and toss in the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. Crush them until they resemble coarse crumbs. If you’re using a bag, just give it a good whack with a rolling pin!
Once crushed, stir in the melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. This will help it stick together when we roll our apples in it. Spread the crunch mixture on a parchment-lined tray and set it aside for later.
Coat the Apples
Now, it’s time for the fun part—coating the apples! In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white candy melts with a bit of vegetable shortening. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s smooth and creamy.
Once melted, stir in the cheesecake extract for that rich flavor. Take each chilled apple and dip it into the melted coating, swirling it around for an even layer. Make sure to cover the entire apple!
While the coating is still wet, roll the lower half of the apple in the strawberry crunch mixture. This adds that delightful texture we’re after. Place the coated apples on parchment paper to firm up for about 15 minutes.
Add the Strawberry Drizzle
Let’s add a pop of color! Melt the red candy melts with a splash of vegetable oil until it’s fluid. This will make it easier to drizzle.
Using a piping bag or a spoon, drizzle the melted red candy over the top of each coated apple. This step not only looks gorgeous but adds a burst of strawberry flavor. Allow the drizzle to set before moving on to the next step.
Make the Cheesecake Whipped Cream
Now, let’s whip up some cheesecake-flavored whipped cream! In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Then, add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Whip everything together until stiff peaks form. This will give you that light and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the apples. Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a beautiful finish.
Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches! Pipe a swirl of cheesecake whipped cream on top of each apple. Then, place a fresh strawberry right on top for that extra flair.
If you want to get fancy, sprinkle some pink sugar crystals or extra strawberry crunch crumbs over the whipped cream. These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples are now ready to be served! Keep them chilled until you’re ready to enjoy.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to dry the apples thoroughly after washing to help the coating stick.
- Chill the apples before coating for a better chocolate set.
- Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting candy melts to avoid burning.
- For a smoother drizzle, ensure the red candy melts are fully melted and fluid.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors!
Equipment Needed
- Microwave-safe Bowl: For melting candy melts. A heatproof glass bowl works too.
- Food Processor or Zip Bag: To crush the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. A rolling pin can substitute.
- Piping Bag with Star Tip: For decorating the whipped cream. A plastic sandwich bag with a corner cut off works as well.
- Parchment Paper: Essential for setting the coated apples without sticking.
Variations
- Chocolate Coating: Swap the white candy melts for dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans to the strawberry crunch for an extra layer of texture.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream for the whipped topping to make it vegan-friendly.
- Flavor Infusions: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist on the cheesecake flavor.
- Fruit Variations: Try using different fruits like pears or peaches instead of apples for a seasonal spin.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad to balance the sweetness.
- For drinks, consider sparkling lemonade or a fruity mocktail to elevate the experience.
- Display them on a colorful platter for a stunning presentation at parties.
FAQs about Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for their sweetness and crunch, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold up under the coating.
How long do these candy apples last?
These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples and the strawberry crunch mixture a day in advance. Just coat the apples and add the whipped cream right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for cheesecake extract?
If you don’t have cheesecake extract on hand, vanilla extract works just fine! It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still taste delicious.
Are there any dietary modifications I can make?
Definitely! You can make these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream for the whipped topping. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Creating these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples is more than just making a dessert; it’s about crafting sweet memories. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, these candy apples are sure to impress. I love how they combine the nostalgia of childhood treats with a sophisticated twist. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this recipe, and enjoy the smiles that come with every delicious bite. Happy cooking!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples: A Delicious Treat!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These candy apples bring the best of both worlds: the nostalgic crunch of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars and the silky sweetness of cheesecake. Covered in a creamy white chocolate shell, rolled in strawberry crumble, and topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries — they’re a showstopper dessert for any celebration!
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
- Ensure apples are thoroughly dried after washing to help the coating stick.
- For a smoother drizzle, ensure the red candy melts are fully melted and fluid.
- Chilling the apples before coating helps the chocolate set better.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
