Description

This Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake combines a classic creamy cheesecake with tropical pineapple flavors and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Enhanced with white chocolate drizzle and pecans, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion that offers a delightful balance of sweetness, tanginess, and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple, drained

Toppings

1/2 cup pineapple chunks
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup white chocolate, melted

Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
Make the cheesecake batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform.
Incorporate pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese batter, mixing just enough to combine without deflating the mixture.
Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes until the center is set and the top turns lightly golden brown.
Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let it fully set and develop flavors.
Add toppings before serving: Just before serving, arrange the pineapple chunks and chopped pecans on top of the cheesecake. Finally, drizzle with melted white chocolate for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Notes

Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter.
Chilling overnight improves texture and flavor development.
The white chocolate drizzle can be replaced or omitted depending on preference or dietary needs.
For easier removal, run a knife around the edges of the springform pan before unlocking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: pineapple upside-down cheesecake, pineapple cheesecake, white chocolate cheesecake, tropical dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust