Name: Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Introduction to Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Ah, the joy of biting into a delicious treat that combines strawberry goodness with creamy cheesecake! That’s exactly what you’ll get with Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples. As a busy mom, I know how precious those moments can be when you want to surprise your loved ones with something special, yet simple. These candy apples are colorful, fun, and perfect for parties or as an after-dinner delight. Plus, the kids will absolutely love them. It’s a sweet solution that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen and brings smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Life gets busy, and who doesn’t appreciate a quick, tasty treat? These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples are a delicious way to please any crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. They blend the irresistible flavors of strawberries and cheesecake into a fun, portable dessert. Plus, they’re perfect for special occasions or a simple family dessert night. Trust me, these sweet bites will bring joy and smiles to your table!

Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples:

Apples: Choose medium-sized apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweet flavor and firm texture. They hold up beautifully when coated!
Sticks or Paper Straws: Sturdy options are key for easy handling. I prefer striped paper straws for a fun twist!
Candy Melts or Chocolate Chips: White candy melts create a sweet, creamy coating. You can also use white chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Vegetable Shortening or Heavy Cream: This helps the candy melts achieve that smooth melting consistency, perfect for an even coat.
Cheesecake Extract: A splash adds a creamy, dreamy flavor that marries perfectly with strawberries. Vanilla extract can work in a pinch.
Parchment Paper: Essential for keeping your coated apples from sticking to surfaces while they set.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These are the secret ingredient for that delicious crunch! They’re sweet, flavorful, and add great texture.
Golden Oreos: Finely crushed, they give the crunch a rich, buttery flavor. Feel free to get creative with different cookie types!
Melted Butter: A little mixed into your crumble helps it to bind together beautifully.
Red Candy Melts: These make for a fun, colorful drizzle, adding a decorative touch to your apples.
Vegetable Oil: This helps make the red candy melts smooth and easy to drizzle.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is a key player for that light, fluffy cheesecake whipped cream topping.
Powdered Sugar: A little sweetening for just the right taste in your whipped cream.
Cream Cheese: Creamy and tangy, it enhances the cheesecake flavor in the whipped topping.
Fresh Strawberries: A delightful garnish for that extra touch of freshness on each finished apple.
Optional Garnishes: Pink sugar crystals or extra strawberry crunch crumbs to add a little extra sparkle and fun!

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

First things first, let’s get those apples ready! Start by washing them under cool running water. Be sure to dry them thoroughly with a clean towel.

Here’s a little trick: dip each apple in hot water for about 10–15 seconds to remove the wax coating. This step is key for a better candy coating!

After you’ve prepped the apples, insert a sturdy stick or paper straw into the top of each apple. This will make them easy to hold and eat. Now, chill those apples in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes. The cooler they are, the better the candy will stick!

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Crunch

Now onto the delicious crunch! In a food processor, combine the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. Pulse them until they’re finely crushed. If you don’t have a processor, just place everything in a zip bag and crush away with a rolling pin—it’s a great stress reliever!

Once you have a crumbly mixture, stir in the melted butter until it resembles coarse sand. Spread this mixture out on a parchment-lined tray, creating an even layer. Set aside; we’ll roll our apples in this delightful crunch soon!

Step 3: Coat the Apples

Let’s make some magic! Melt the white candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with 30-second bursts, stirring in between until they’re smooth.

Mix in your cheesecake extract for that creamy kick! Dip each chilled apple into the melted candy coating, angling it slightly for an even finish. Don’t forget to swirl it around.

While the coating is still wet, immediately roll the lower half of each apple in that scrumptious strawberry crunch mixture. Place the apples back on the parchment paper to set for about 15 minutes. They’re gonna be so cute!

Step 4: Add the Strawberry Drizzle

It’s time for the fancy part! Melt the red candy melts in a small bowl, adding a dash of vegetable oil to get a smooth pour.

Using a piping bag or a spoon, drizzle the melted red candy over the top of each coated apple. This adds a beautiful touch and is oh-so-fun! Let the drizzle set completely before moving on.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Whipped Cream

For the whipped cream, start by beating the softened cream cheese in a bowl until it’s creamy and smooth. Then, gradually add in the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

Whip it all together until you achieve stiff peaks. This makes for a light and airy texture that’ll make your apples even more decadent! Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a beautiful presentation.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Now for the grand finale! Pipe a swirl of that luscious cheesecake whipped cream on top of each candy apple. It’s the cherry on top—well, sort of!

Finish each apple with a fresh strawberry on top. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle with pink sugar crystals or some extra strawberry crunch. Keep the apples chilled until you’re ready to serve.

These delightful treats are perfect for sharing or showing off at get-togethers. Get ready for compliments!

Tips for Success

Use fresh, firm apples for the best flavor and texture.
Chill the apples after prepping; it helps the candy coating stick better.
Crush the cookies finely for an even crunch.
Work quickly when coating; it ensures a smooth finish.
Experiment with different toppings for a personalized touch!

Equipment Needed for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Microwave-safe Bowl: Essential for melting candy melts; a glass bowl works best.
Piping Bag or Spoon: Use a piping bag for precision drizzling; a spoon can work too.
Food Processor: Great for crushing cookies; a zip bag with a rolling pin is a handy alternative.
Parchment Paper: Keeps your apples from sticking; wax paper can be used in a pinch.

Variations of Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Chocolate-Covered Apples: Swap the white candy melts for dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent twist.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts—like almonds or pecans—to the strawberry crunch for added flavor and texture.
Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with other extracts such as almond or hazelnut to create unique flavor profiles.
Fruit-Filled Crunch: Incorporate crushed freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries for a mixed fruit crunch.
Lower Sugar Option: Use sugar-free candy melts and swap out Oreos for sugar-free cookies to reduce sweetness.
Vegan Version: Try using dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream for the whipped topping for a plant-based delight.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sweet treat.
Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a berry medley for a colorful display.
Enhance the experience with a sparkling lemonade or fruity mocktail.
Present them on a decorative platter, sprinkled with mint leaves for a fresh touch.

FAQs about Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are my favorites, feel free to experiment with Granny Smith or Gala apples. Each variety offers a unique flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store your Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples in the refrigerator, preferably in a single layer to avoid smashing. They are best enjoyed within a day or two for optimum taste and freshness!

Can I make these candy apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance! Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making them even tastier!

What if I can’t find cheesecake extract?

No worries at all! Vanilla extract is a great substitute and will still provide a lovely flavor. You might even find you prefer it!

Can I make these candy apples gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap out the Golden Oreos for gluten-free cookie alternatives, and you’re good to go. Everyone can enjoy these delicious treats!

Final Thoughts on Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples

There’s something magical about Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Candy Apples that brings joy to the kitchen. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family treat or at a gathering, their vibrant colors and delightful flavors create instant smiles. I love how simple yet impressive these candy apples are, turning an ordinary day into a special occasion.

Each bite is a sweet adventure, with the bright strawberry crunch and creamy cheesecake complementing the apple perfectly. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these delicious candies as I do. They truly are a treat to remember!