Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe for Dreamy Tropical Delight

Creamy cheesecake meets tropical pineapple in a dessert that dances with unexpected flavors.

Sweet chunks of tropical fruit nestle between silky cream cheese layers.

Crushed graham crackers create a perfect crispy foundation for this delightful treat.

Memories of summer breeze through each delectable bite, transporting you to sunny islands.

Texture and taste combine in a symphony of smooth and bright notes.

Exotic yet familiar, this dessert promises to become a crowd-pleasing favorite at any gathering.

Tips for a Perfect Creamy Cheesecake

  • Select Quality Ingredients: Choose ripe, fresh pineapple for the most vibrant flavor and use full-fat cream cheese to ensure a rich, creamy texture.
  • Prevent Cracking Technique: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and bake in a water bath to create a smooth, crack-free surface and prevent overbaking.
  • Room Temperature Magic: Let cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy ingredients sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before mixing to achieve a silky, lump-free filling.
  • Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Pat pineapple chunks completely dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making the cheesecake watery or soggy.
  • Chill for Perfect Texture: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and achieve the ideal creamy consistency.

Storage Tips for Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Slice the cheesecake, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Keep frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Move frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight for gradual, even defrosting. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent texture changes.
  • Enjoy cold directly from the refrigerator or let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Complementary Sips and Bites for Cheesecake

  • Pair the pineapple cream cheesecake with a crisp Riesling that complements its creamy texture and bright fruit notes.
  • Serve alongside a sparkling passion fruit mocktail to enhance the tropical pineapple flavors and provide a zesty counterpoint.
  • Add a scoop of coconut sorbet as a side, creating a harmonious blend of tropical textures and cooling sensation that matches the cheesecake's richness.
  • Introduce a ginger snap cookie or light cardamom biscuit to add a subtle spicy crunch that cuts through the dessert's smoothness.

Variations for Pineapple Cheesecake Fans

  • Gluten-Free Crust Option: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly base.
  • Tropical Coconut Variation: Add shredded coconut to the crust and mix diced toasted coconut into the cheesecake filling for extra tropical flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar and incorporate Greek yogurt to reduce overall calorie content while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Vegan Cheesecake Adaptation: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream, and create a nut-based crust with dates and almonds for a plant-based version.

FAQs About Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

  • What are the key ingredients for the pineapple cream cheesecake?

The key ingredients include cream cheese, fresh pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. These components create a rich, creamy dessert with a tropical twist.

  • Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use well-drained canned pineapple as a substitute. Just make sure to pat the canned pineapple dry to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.

  • Is this cheesecake difficult to make for beginners?

This recipe is relatively straightforward and suitable for intermediate bakers. The key is to follow the steps carefully, ensure ingredients are at room temperature, and avoid overmixing the batter.

  • How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open after baking.

Why Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Is a Dreamy Dessert

  • Easily whip up this cheesecake with basic ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Pineapple adds a delightful twist to classic cheesecake, creating a refreshing and unique dessert that stands out from traditional recipes.
  • Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations, this cheesecake offers a crowd-friendly option that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Prepare the cheesecake in advance, giving you stress-free entertaining and the flexibility to focus on other party details or simply relax before serving.

What’s in Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

Base Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs, Sugar, Unsalted Butter: Classic cheesecake crust with sweet and buttery texture, creating a sturdy foundation for the dessert. Best with fresh, crisp graham crackers and high-quality butter.
Dairy Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Rich and smooth base for cheesecake, providing creamy texture and tangy flavor. Room temperature cream cheese blends more easily. Full-fat varieties recommended for best results.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and subtle tanginess to the cheesecake. Full-fat version provides better texture and flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates light and airy filling, helping achieve smooth consistency. Fresh cream yields best results.
  • Eggs: Binds ingredients and helps cheesecake set properly. Use large, fresh eggs at room temperature.
Flavor Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances cream cheese's tanginess. Pure white sugar preferred.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, classic taste. Pure vanilla extract recommended over artificial versions.
  • Fresh Pineapple: Provides natural sweetness and tropical flavor. Ripe, golden pineapple works best, with minimal brown spots.
  • Pineapple Juice: Intensifies pineapple flavor in the cheesecake. Fresh juice preferred over canned.

Step-by-Step for Making Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Dial your oven to a cozy 325°F (163°C). Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a light butter massage to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create A Crunchy Foundation

Gather your crust ingredients:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Sugar
  • Melted butter

Mix these ingredients in a bowl until they’re perfectly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove and let it cool while you prep the creamy filling.

Step 3: Whip Up The Cheesecake Filling

Ingredients for the filling:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh pineapple chunks

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and velvety. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing. Incorporate eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until the mixture is silky. Gently fold in chopped pineapple chunks.

Step 4: Pour And Bake The Cheesecake

Carefully pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes. The center should have a gentle wobble when you nudge the pan.

Step 5: Cool And Chill

Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then remove and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Carefully release the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled. Optional: Garnish with extra pineapple chunks or whipped cream.

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Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Silky smooth pineapple cream cheesecake dances with tropical sweetness, blending creamy texture and tangy fruit notes into a delightful dessert. Dessert lovers will savor each rich, refreshing bite of this heavenly tropical treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 cup (240 ml) crushed pineapple, drained well

Topping Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 ml) crushed pineapple, drained well
  • ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, whipped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the foundation by combining crushed graham crackers with sugar and melted butter, creating a uniform mixture that will serve as the cheesecake’s base.
  2. Gently press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, ensuring an even, compact layer that will provide stability for the creamy filling.
  3. Briefly toast the crust in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 8-10 minutes, allowing it to develop a light golden color and enhance its nutty flavor.
  4. Allow the crust to cool completely while assembling the luxurious cream cheese mixture, which will transform into a velvety, decadent filling.
  5. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps, creating a silky texture that will define the cheesecake’s luxurious mouthfeel.
  6. Gradually incorporate sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese, mixing thoroughly to ensure a uniform, creamy consistency without overmixing.
  7. Fold in the fresh pineapple chunks with gentle precision, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture to provide bursts of tropical sweetness in every bite.
  8. Carefully pour the pineapple-infused cream cheese filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any potential air pockets.
  9. Place the assembled cheesecake in the center of the oven, baking at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly, typically requiring 50-60 minutes.
  10. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar, allowing it to cool gradually and prevent potential cracking.
  11. After reaching room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly firm.
  12. Before serving, carefully release the springform pan and garnish with additional fresh pineapple pieces or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Select graham crackers with consistent texture to ensure an even, crisp crust foundation.
  • Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for smoother, lump-free mixing and better blending.
  • Consider adding extra pineapple chunks directly into cheesecake batter for enhanced fruit flavor and textural surprise.
  • Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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