Transport yourself to a sunny tropical getaway with this decadent Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake. A perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and vibrant pineapple flavors, this dessert promises to be a showstopper at any gathering, bringing a slice of paradise to your table.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups (240g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
- 2 cups (300g) fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
Pineapple Topping
- 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Fresh pineapple chunks for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar
- Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan
- Bake for 10 minutes, then cool
- Prepare Pineapple:
- Drain pineapple chunks
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture
- Chop into smaller pieces
- Make Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour
- Fold in pineapple chunks
- Pour mixture over cooled crust
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Bake for 60-70 minutes
- Center should be slightly jiggly
- Cool at room temperature
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours
- Prepare Pineapple Topping:
- Combine pineapple juice, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly
- Cool completely
- Pour over chilled cheesecake
- Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks
Nutritional Information
Per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 70 minutes Chilling Time: 4 hours Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes Servings: 12
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother cheesecake
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks
- Use a water bath for more even baking
- Allow cheesecake to cool slowly to prevent surface cracking
- Refrigerate overnight for best texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Crust Alternatives:
- Use vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
- Add coconut flakes to graham cracker mix
- Dietary Modifications:
- Use low-fat cream cheese
- Substitute with gluten-free graham crackers
- Use dairy-free cream cheese for vegan option
- Flavor Variations:
- Add coconut extract
- Sprinkle toasted coconut on top
- Add rum for a tropical twist
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking? A: Avoid overmixing, use room temperature ingredients, and bake in a water bath.
Q2: Can I use canned pineapple? A: Yes, but drain thoroughly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
Q3: How long will the cheesecake keep? A: Refrigerate for up to 5 days, covered.
Q4: Can I freeze this cheesecake? A: Yes, freeze without topping for up to 1 month.
Q5: What if I don’t have a springform pan? A: Use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 5 days
- Keep covered to prevent drying
- Add topping just before serving
- Freeze without topping for longer storage
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight
Indulge in this Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake and let every bite transport you to a tropical paradise!