Bavarian Apple Torte

By Gilmore

This rich, creamy torte has always been one of my favorite autumn desserts. Mom uses the freshest apples from a local orchard and bakes this treat until the apples are crisp-tender. It tastes as good as it looks. -Alyson Armstrong, Parkersburg, West Virginia

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• FILLING:•2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• TOPPING:•3 cups thinly sliced peeled tart apples
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation

Step 1

Combine the first four ingredients. Press onto the bottom of an ungreased 9-in. springform pan. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Pour over the crust. Combine topping ingredients; spoon over filling. Bake at 350° for 55-65 minutes or until the center is set. Cool on a wire rack. Store in the refrigerator. Cut into wedges with a serrated knife.

Editor's Note: Even a tight-fitting springform pan may leak. To prevent drips, place the pan on a baking sheet in the oven.