Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Escapes

Sweet moments often start with a delightful pineapple cream cheesecake that whispers tropical dreams.

Creamy textures blend with tangy fruit for an unexpected dessert adventure.

Soft cheese layers mingle with bright citrus notes in each delectable bite.

Tropical ingredients dance across your palate, creating memories of sunshine and relaxation.

Home bakers can easily craft this stunning dessert with simple techniques.

Kitchen magic happens when classic ingredients meet playful imagination.

You’ll find this recipe brings joy and excitement to any gathering.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that promises pure deliciousness.

Ingredients In Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

For the Crust:
  • Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet, crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the cracker crumbs and adds rich flavor to the crust.
  • Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps the crust hold together.
For the Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and adds sweetness.
  • Eggs: Act as a binding agent and contribute to the creamy, stable structure of the cheesecake.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps create a velvety smooth texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a subtle brightness and helps balance the richness of the filling.
For the Pineapple Topping:
  • Pineapple, Fresh: Provides a sweet, tangy topping with bright tropical flavor.
  • Sugar, Water, Cornstarch, Lemon Juice: Help create a glossy, thickened pineapple sauce that enhances the cheesecake.

Baking Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Made Easy

Step 1: Pulverize Graham Cracker Base

Crush graham crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Break down the crackers completely to create a smooth, consistent texture that will form the foundation of your cheesecake.

Step 2: Create Crumb Mixture

Melt butter and combine with graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when gently pressed. This will create a sturdy, delicious crust for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Prepare Crust Layer

Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the base, ensuring a solid foundation. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Whip Cream Cheese Base

Bring cream cheese to room temperature. Beat in a large mixing bowl until completely smooth and creamy, eliminating any potential lumps. The cream cheese should be silky and free of any visible bumps.

Step 5: Incorporate Sweetness

Gradually add sugar to the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and fully integrated. The combination should look smooth and have a consistent texture.

Step 6: Add Eggs Carefully

Introduce eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Blend carefully to maintain a silky consistency and prevent overmixing, which could introduce unwanted air bubbles into the batter.

Step 7: Create Velvety Batter

Gently fold in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until just combined, creating a luxurious and smooth cheesecake batter with a delicate flavor profile.

Step 8: Fill the Crust

Pour the prepared filling over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even surface and removing any potential air pockets.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for 60-70 minutes. Look for a slightly jiggly center with set edges, indicating the cheesecake is perfectly cooked.

Step 10: Cool Slowly

Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth, crack-free surface.

Step 11: Prepare Pineapple Topping

Dice fresh pineapple into small, uniform pieces. Prepare ingredients for the topping:
  • Pineapple chunks
  • Sugar
  • Water
  • Cornstarch
  • Lemon juice

Step 12: Cook Pineapple Topping

Combine pineapple and topping ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 13: Complete Cooling Process

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

Step 14: Finish and Serve

Spread the cooled pineapple topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and serve cold, optionally garnishing with additional fresh pineapple pieces for extra flair.

Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Success Tips

  • Crush Precisely: Use a food processor or rolling pin to create uniform graham cracker crumbs for a consistent and smooth cheesecake base.
  • Prevent Cracking: Cool the cheesecake slowly by turning off the oven, cracking the door, and letting it rest for an hour to avoid unsightly surface splits.
  • Room Temperature Magic: Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free batter that blends smoothly.
  • Gentle Folding Technique: Mix ingredients gently and avoid overmixing to maintain a light, airy texture and prevent unwanted air bubbles.
  • Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to develop and achieve the ideal creamy consistency.

Swaps And Spins On Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

  • No-Bake Tropical Cheesecake: Replace baked filling with chilled mixture of cream cheese, condensed milk, and gelatin, set in refrigerator without baking.
  • Gluten-Free Hawaiian Version: Substitute graham crackers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust, maintaining similar texture and flavor profile.
  • Vegan Pineapple Cheesecake: Use cashew cream cheese, coconut milk, and agar-agar as gelatin replacement, creating plant-based alternative with similar creamy consistency.
  • Low-Sugar Tropical Option: Swap regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall calorie content while preserving cheesecake's rich taste.

What To Pair With Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

  • Pair Perfectly with Tropical Delights: Complementary Flavors for Pineapple Cheesecake
  • Sip Zesty Cocktails: A tropical rum-based mojito or piña colada will enhance the pineapple's sweetness and cut through the cheesecake's richness.
  • Complement with Fruity Wines: Select a crisp Riesling or Gewürztraminer with light sweetness that mirrors the pineapple's bright tropical notes.
  • Balance with Refreshing Sides: Serve alongside a light coconut sorbet or passion fruit granita to amplify the dessert's tropical essence and provide a cool, palate-cleansing contrast.

How To Keep Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Fresh

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. Keeps fresh for 4-5 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Remove from freezer and transfer to refrigerator 24 hours before serving. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying to restore optimal texture.
  • Warm individual slices in microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power.

FAQs About Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

  • Can I use a different type of crust?

You can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies for a unique base flavor.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, use room temperature ingredients, bake in a water bath, and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven to prevent cracks.

  • Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, though removing slices might be trickier.

What Makes Pineapple Cream Cheesecake So Dreamy

  • Craft a Foolproof Dessert: Master a classic cheesecake with simple techniques that guarantee a professional-quality result every single time.
  • Create a Crowd-Pleasing Showstopper: Impress guests with a stunning dessert that looks complicated but requires basic baking skills and minimal kitchen expertise.
  • Customize with Tropical Twist: Elevate the traditional cheesecake by adding a vibrant pineapple topping that brings bright, tangy flavors and visual appeal to the classic dessert.
  • Prepare Make-Ahead Magic: Design a dessert that can be prepared in advance, reducing stress and allowing more time to enjoy with family and friends during gatherings or special occasions.
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Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Pineapple Cream Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Smooth, tropical paradise meets creamy indulgence in this heavenly Pineapple Cream Cheesecake that brings Hawaiian sunshine right to your dessert plate. Sweet pineapple chunks and velvety cream cheese create a delightful harmony you’ll savor with pure culinary bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Base:

  • 200 g graham crackers
  • 100 g unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 680 g cream cheese
  • 200 g granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 240 ml heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 30 ml lemon juice

Pineapple Topping:

  • 400 g fresh pineapple
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 30 ml water
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin, ensuring a uniform texture for the base.
  2. Melt butter and mix thoroughly with graham cracker crumbs and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even, compact layer. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
  4. Bring cream cheese to room temperature and beat in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
  5. Gradually incorporate sugar into the cream cheese, mixing until fully integrated and the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition to maintain a silky consistency. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.
  7. Gently fold in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until just combined, creating a velvety cheesecake batter.
  8. Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
  9. Bake in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
  10. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  11. Dice fresh pineapple into small, uniform pieces for the topping.
  12. Combine pineapple, sugar, water, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.
  13. Simmer the pineapple mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
  14. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  15. Before serving, spread the cooled pineapple topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
  16. Slice and serve chilled, garnishing with additional pineapple pieces if desired.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cream cheese mixture and even mixing.
  • Prevent cheesecake cracking by baking in a water bath, which provides gentle, consistent heat and moisture.
  • Opt for fresh pineapple instead of canned for brighter, more vibrant flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Customize the recipe by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 50 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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