Imagine a dessert that transports you to a sunny tropical paradise with every single bite. This Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is not just a dessert – it’s a culinary journey that blends the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the bright, tangy essence of fresh pineapple. Each layer tells a story of indulgence, promising to turn any ordinary moment into an extraordinary celebration of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Pineapple Layer:
- 1 can (20 oz / 567 g) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp (8 g) cornstarch
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- Pineapple chunks for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C)
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter
- Press mixture firmly into pan bottom
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool
2. Create Pineapple Layer
- Combine drained pineapple, sugar, and cornstarch in saucepan
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly
- Thicken for 5-7 minutes
- Remove from heat and cool
3. Make Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well
- Mix in vanilla and sour cream
- Optional: Fold in crushed pineapple
4. Assemble Cheesecake
- Pour half cheesecake batter over crust
- Spread cooled pineapple layer evenly
- Add remaining cheesecake batter
5. Bake and Cool
- Bake 55-65 minutes until center is set but slightly jiggly
- Turn off oven, crack door
- Cool cheesecake in oven for 1 hour
6. Chill and Decorate
- Refrigerate 4+ hours
- Top with whipped cream
- Sprinkle toasted coconut
- Garnish with pineapple chunks
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 65 minutes
- Chill Time: 4+ hours
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Calories per slice: Approximately 450-500 calories
Why This Cheesecake is a Tropical Treasure
This Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert – it’s a nutritional symphony. Packed with protein from cream cheese, brightened by enzyme-rich pineapple, and balanced with a graham cracker crust, it offers a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies both sweet cravings and nutritional needs.
The layered approach creates a complex flavor profile that dances between creamy, tangy, and sweet. Pineapple’s natural enzymes not only add brightness but also aid digestion, making this dessert as smart as it is delicious.
Pro Tip: For an extra tropical twist, try adding a splash of rum to the pineapple layer or garnishing with toasted macadamia nuts.