Virginia'S Apple Cheese Dessert
Virginia'S Apple Cheese Dessert offers a delightful combination of tender sliced apples topped with a cheesy, cinnamon-scented crumble. The sweet and tangy flavors make it perfect for fall gatherings or comforting family dinners, providing a warm and satisfying dessert with a hint of citrus freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a shallow greased baking dish with sliced apples.
- Sprinkle the apples with lemon juice and 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Mix the flour, cinnamon, salt, and remaining 1/2 cup sugar together.
- Cut in the butter or margarine until the mixture becomes granular.
- Stir in the grated cheese.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the apples.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. If you're short on time, pre-sliced apples or even canned apple slices can work in a pinch, just adjust the sugar accordingly. For a deeper flavor, try using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or gouda.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served warm, making it a delightful dessert on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a seasonal touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside a glass of Comfort Eggnog for a cozy treat. It also makes a wonderful addition to brunch, complementing savory dishes like Hot Corny Cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dessert in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds, but the oven method will help maintain the texture and crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia'S Apple Cheese Dessert contains roughly 425 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1277mg per serving (56% 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 other fruits besides apples?
While this recipe is specifically for apples, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape during baking. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit used, as some may require less sugar than apples.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Virginia's Apple Cheese Dessert gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the cheese and sugar, are also gluten-free. This will allow everyone to enjoy this delicious dessert without worry.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
The recipe calls for grated cheese, and sharp cheddar is a classic choice that complements the sweetness of the apples wonderfully. However, you can also use a milder cheese like Monterey Jack or even a blue cheese for a more adventurous flavor. Just ensure the cheese is grated for even distribution.
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).