If you’re craving a comforting dessert that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors, this Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine tender, juicy apples kissed with lemon juice and baked under a golden, crumbly topping rich with sharp cheddar cheese—each bite brings a nostalgic warmth that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s an irresistible combination that’s been a favorite for generations and continues to charm tables today.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect texture and taste. From the sweet apples and tangy lemon juice to the sharp cheddar cheese that adds a delightful twist, every component works in harmony to bring this classic dish to life.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the dish just right without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors for a balanced bite.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create that crumbly topping texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup cold butter: Cut into the flour mixture for rich, buttery crumbs.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a bold, savory punch that complements the sweet apples perfectly.
- 7 medium apples, peeled and sliced: The star of the dish, providing juicy sweetness and tender texture.
- 6 tbsp water: Keeps the apples moist and helps them cook evenly.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Prevents browning and adds a fresh, bright note.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dry Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350° F, setting the stage for perfect, even baking. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, salt, and flour—this trio forms the base for your topping’s sweetness and texture.
Step 2: Create the Crumble Topping
Next, cube the cold butter and cut it into your flour mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This is similar to biscuit dough preparation, so a pastry cutter works wonders here. Once crumbly, mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to bring that signature savory element.
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with water and lemon juice. This quick coating keeps the apples from browning and ensures they’ll bake up tender and flavorful while maintaining their shape.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the coated apples evenly along the bottom. Sprinkle the cheese and flour crumb mixture generously over the apples, gently pressing it down to create an even topping that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole at 350° for 40 minutes, until the top is irresistibly golden brown and bubbling. Your kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of baked apples and melted cheese—that’s the true sign of success.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once baked, serve the casserole warm for the best flavor and texture, allowing the cheesy top to contrast perfectly with the soft, juicy apples underneath.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top takes this dish into the realm of pure indulgence. For a final touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a warmly satisfying dessert experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own as a dessert but pairs wonderfully with a crisp, lightly dressed green salad if you’re serving it at a brunch or festive meal. A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the cheesy and fruity flavors beautifully as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more personalized presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets. You can also layer the apple and cheese mixture into parfait glasses and top with the crumble for a fun, deconstructed twist on the classic Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making reheated servings taste just as comforting as the first time.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it will last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat in a preheated oven at 325° F for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain that crisp, cheesy topping everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape during baking and balance sweetness with a touch of tartness.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you prefer a bit more chew and rustic flair, you can leave the skins on—just make sure to wash them well.
Can I substitute the sharp cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar provides a wonderful sharpness that complements the sweetness, but you can experiment with other firm cheeses like Gruyère or even a tangy Swiss for different flavor profiles.
What if I don’t have lemon juice?
Lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness, but you can substitute with a splash of apple cider vinegar or even orange juice in a pinch.
Can this casserole be made vegan?
To make it vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute and vegan cheddar-style cheese. Keep in mind, the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delightful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe that brings comfort, nostalgia, and a delightful flavor combination all in one dish. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or simply to treat yourself, this casserole never fails to impress. So go ahead, give it a try—you’re in for a warm, cheesy, and sweet experience that will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Print
Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Cheese Casserole combines tender, juicy apples with a rich cheddar cheese topping for a nostalgic dessert that is both sweet and savory. Baked to a golden brown perfection, this comforting casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Fat and Cheese
- 1/4 cup cold butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Fruit and Liquids
- 7 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 6 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, stir together 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup flour until well combined.
- Cut in Butter: Cube the cold 1/4 cup butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut it into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form, resembling biscuit dough.
- Add Cheese: Combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese with the flour and butter mixture, mixing thoroughly and set this cheese topping aside.
- Prepare Apples: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with 6 tbsp water and 1 tbsp lemon juice to coat the slices and prevent browning.
- Arrange Apples in Dish: Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the apples evenly along the bottom.
- Add Cheese Mixture: Evenly sprinkle the cheese mixture over the apples and gently press down to create a compact topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 350° F for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the casserole warm to enjoy the melty cheese with tender apples.
Notes
- Using sharp cheddar cheese creates a delicious contrast with the sweetness of the apples.
- Make sure the butter is cold before cutting it into the flour to achieve a crumbly topping texture.
- You can substitute Granny Smith apples or another tart variety to balance the sweetness.
- Serve this casserole as a dessert or a comforting brunch dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
