Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe

Whip Up a Dreamy Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe Today

Sweet dreams meet pure bliss in this pineapple heaven cheesecake that promises tropical rapture.

Creamy layers melt into golden fruit-infused moments of pure delight.

Tropical ingredients dance together, creating a dessert that whispers summer memories.

Decadent textures blend smoothly, inviting you to savor each incredible bite.

Passion and precision combine in a recipe that feels like a culinary adventure.

Rich cream cheese swirls with caramelized pineapple chunks, creating magic on your plate.

Prepare to experience a slice of pure indulgence that will make everyone beg for seconds.

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Ingredients

Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • Butter (Melted): Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden texture.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese (Softened): The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy and smooth texture.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
  • Eggs: Act as a binding agent and help create the signature dense cheesecake structure.
  • Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tanginess to the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet notes.
  • Crushed Pineapple (Well-Drained): Brings a tropical fruity flavor and moisture to the cheesecake.
Pineapple Topping:
  • Crushed Pineapple (Drained): Provides a fresh, sweet pineapple flavor to top the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the topping.
  • Cornstarch, Water: Help thicken the pineapple topping to create a glossy, spoonable consistency.

Simple Steps For Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 325F (165C).

Grab your 9-inch springform pan and give it a light butter massage.

Wrap the outside with aluminum foil like a protective blanket to stop any sneaky leaks.

Step 2: Create Crunchy Base

Grab these ingredients:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Sugar
  • Melted butter

Mix everything in a bowl until they become best friends.

Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid foundation.

Pop it in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden.

Let it chill and cool down.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until they’re smooth as silk.

Add eggs one by one, giving each a good mix.

Gently fold in sour cream and vanilla extract, creating a dreamy mixture.

Step 4: Introduce Pineapple Magic

Drain crushed pineapple and fold it into the creamy filling.

Make sure those tropical bits are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Bake With Love

Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Create a warm water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish.

Fill the outer dish with hot water.

Bake for 55-65 minutes until the edges look set but the center still has a gentle wiggle.

Step 6: Craft Pineapple Topping

Combine in a saucepan:
  • Drained crushed pineapple
  • Sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Water

Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens like a tropical dream.

Let it cool completely.

Step 7: Chill And Rest

After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door.

Let the cheesecake rest inside for an hour.

Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 8: Serve And Celebrate

Spread the cooled pineapple topping over the chilled cheesecake.

Slice and dive into your tropical paradise!

Pro Tips For Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Remove excess moisture from crushed pineapple using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to prevent a watery cheesecake texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and use room temperature ingredients to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
  • Wrap the springform pan in multiple layers of aluminum foil to ensure no water seeps into the delicate cheesecake crust during baking.
  • Let cream cheese and eggs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to achieve a perfectly smooth and creamy filling.
  • Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe clean between each cut to create clean, beautiful slices of cheesecake.

Fun Cheesecake Options

  • Tropical Coconut Variation: Replace graham cracker crust with toasted coconut flakes and add shredded coconut into the cheesecake filling for enhanced tropical flavors.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the creamy cheesecake texture.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Create a plant-based version using cashew cream cheese, coconut milk, and agar-agar as egg replacement to craft a dairy-free, animal-product-free dessert.

Serving Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

  • Tropical Island Vibes: Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and mint leaves for a vibrant, tropical presentation that brings Hawaiian-style flair to your dessert.
  • Coconut Crunch Delight: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes around the edges of the cheesecake for an extra layer of texture and a complementary tropical flavor profile.
  • Whipped Cream Dream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on each slice, creating a light and creamy contrast to the rich, dense cheesecake.
  • Rum Drizzle Surprise: Create a quick rum glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of rum to drizzle elegantly over individual slices for an adult-friendly twist.

Storing Cheesecake

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds at 50% power to prevent texture breakdown. Let sit for a minute to distribute heat evenly.
  • Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor, ensuring the best taste and creamy texture.

FAQs

  • Why use a water bath when baking the cheesecake?

A water bath helps prevent cracks by creating a moist, even baking environment and prevents the cheesecake from overbaking or developing a dry texture.

  • Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but ensure the fresh pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the cheesecake watery. Crush or finely chop the fresh pineapple before adding.

  • How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?

The edges should be set, but the center should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. This indicates the cheesecake is cooked but will continue to set as it cools.

Pineapple Cheesecake Appeal

  • Breeze Through Preparation: This recipe offers simple steps that even beginner bakers can master, with straightforward ingredients and clear instructions that make cooking feel like a fun adventure.
  • Tropical Flavor Explosion: Packed with sweet, tangy pineapple throughout the cheesecake and topping, this dessert brings a delightful tropical twist that transforms an ordinary treat into something extraordinary.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations, this cheesecake delights everyone with its creamy texture and vibrant fruity notes that appeal to different taste preferences.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: The recipe allows you to prepare the cheesecake in advance, making it a stress-free dessert option for busy hosts who want a delicious finale to their meal without last-minute kitchen chaos.
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Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Pineapple heaven cheesecake delivers a tropical paradise of creamy richness and sweet tangy flavors. Silky smooth layers meld classic cheesecake with fresh pineapple essence, creating a delightful dessert that transports palates to island bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese (softened)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained)
  • 1 can (20 ounces or 567 grams) crushed pineapple (drained, for topping)

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Additional Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing and wrapping the exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C).
  2. Create the graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar until achieving a smooth, velvety texture. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition.
  4. Gently fold in well-drained crushed pineapple, distributing evenly throughout the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Transfer the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust. Position the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and carefully pour hot water around the pan to create a water bath.
  6. Bake for 55-65 minutes, monitoring until the edges appear set and the center maintains a slight wobble when gently shaken.
  7. Simultaneously, prepare the pineapple topping by combining drained pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  8. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside for one hour.
  9. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight to ensure proper setting.
  10. Before serving, generously spread the cooled pineapple topping across the chilled cheesecake surface. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cheesecake soggy, using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth for best results.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure smooth, lump-free batter and even mixing.
  • Create a perfectly smooth top by gently tapping the filled springform pan on the counter to release air bubbles before baking.
  • Modify for gluten-free diets by substituting graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 317 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 155 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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