Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake

This delightful cheesecake combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a creamy, rich texture, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a wonderful twist on a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

• Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup sugar

• Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

• Topping:

  • 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into rings or 1 can of pineapple rings, drained
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
3. Make the topping: In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter with the brown sugar over medium heat until combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture.
4. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, sour cream, and crushed pineapple.
5. Pour the filling over the pineapple rings in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour.
7. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
8. Serve: Carefully run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake before removing it from the springform pan. Place a serving platter over the top and carefully flip it to reveal the lovely pineapple topping.

Flavor Profile

This Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake bursts with tropical flavors! The caramelized brown sugar and pineapple create a sweet and slightly tangy topping that beautifully complements the creamy, rich texture of the cheesecake filling.