Grandma Phyl'S Apple Cheese Bake
A comforting apple cheese bake featuring tender apples, a cinnamon-sugar crust, and melted cheese topping—perfect for cozy family gatherings or dessert indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place apples in a greased 9-inch square pan. Combine water and lemon juice; pour over the apples. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Mix together the sugar, flour, and salt. Cut in margarine to form a crumbly crust. Add shredded cheese and mix lightly.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the apples.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes until apples are tender and topping is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding a handful of raisins or cranberries to the apples for added sweetness and texture. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter can be substituted for a richer flavor. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples; tart apples may require more sugar. This dish also pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a delightful dessert or a cozy breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs with sour cream for a comforting brunch option. This dish can also accompany a light salad for a balanced lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the apple cheese bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds, but the topping may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Phyl'S Apple Cheese Bake contains roughly 416 calories, with 6g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1339mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar is a popular choice, but you could also try a mild mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses may alter the overall taste of the bake.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the apple cheese bake before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. For baked leftovers, reheat in the oven for best results.
What type of apples work best for this dish?
For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the topping. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they may become mushy during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).