WHAT ARE BAKED APPLES STUFFED WITH CHEESE?

It is a dessert Americana!  Apples are the quintessential American fruit. They can be baked into a pie, stuffed into a turnover, pureed into apple sauce or cooked down into butter. Apples are a beloved autumn tradition and year-round treat. Furthermore this dessert offers a twist on simple baked apples. It is a quick and easy year round dessert that features  sweetened ricotta cheese, commonly used in Italian pastries. Suddenly, baked apples acquire an international flair.

SUGGESTIONS WHEN MAKING BAKED APPLES STUFFED WITH CHEESE

• Not All Apples are Equal

As any pie baker will tell you, each variety of apple has its own characteristics that can make–or break–your preparation. For baking whole, choose a larger apple with a firmer flesh such as Rome, Empire or Honeycrisps.

• Strain Your Cheese!

For the creamiest possible result, it’s important to drain any excess water in the ricotta. The best way to do this is to put the cheese in a fine mesh strainer with a handle.  Just suspend the strainer over a bowl until the excess water is drained away.

WHAT PAIRS WELL WITH BAKED APPLES STUFFED WITH CHEESE?

The sweet of the honey balanced by the sourness of the lemon and spiciness of the anise and nutmeg are the more dominant flavors to pair to here.  In terms of wine, either go with a safe choice like a neutral white Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling.  However if you’re feeling brave and really want to try a red wine, a Syrah or Barbera MIGHT work.  But depending on the wine producer you’re really rolling the dice on this one.  So if you come up “Craps!” don’t blame us.  Among your harder liquors Calvados pairs well.  This is a dessert dish.  No other food pairings are needed. (written by Chef Stef)