Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake: A Tropical Dream Dessert

Indulge in the ultimate tropical escape with this Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling swirled with pineapple, and a glossy caramelized pineapple topping, this dessert is pure paradise in every bite.

In this guide, you’ll discover:
Why this cheesecake is a must-make
Step-by-step instructions for perfect results
Expert tips for the creamiest texture
Answers to all your cheesecake questions

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

This isn’t just another cheesecake – it’s a vacation for your taste buds:

Tropical flavor explosion – Sweet pineapple balances rich cream cheese perfectly
Gorgeous presentation – Caramelized pineapple topping looks stunning
Crowd-pleasing dessert – Perfect for potlucks, parties, or special occasions
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight

Ingredients for Paradise

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter

For the Filling

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained

For the Topping

• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon rum (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until resembles wet sand.
3. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan (up sides slightly).
4. Bake 10 minutes, then cool while making filling.

2. Make the Filling

1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
3. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla.
4. Gently fold in drained pineapple.
5. Pour into cooled crust and smooth top.

3. Bake to Perfection

1. Place springform pan in larger baking dish.
2. Add hot water to create water bath (prevents cracks).
3. Bake 60-70 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
4. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cool 1 hour inside.

4. Prepare the Topping

1. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat.
2. Add pineapple and brown sugar, cook until caramelized (8-10 mins).
3. Stir in rum if using, cook 1 minute more.
4. Cool completely before topping cheesecake.

5. Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate cheesecake at least 6 hours (overnight best).
2. Add pineapple topping before serving.
3. Garnish with whipped cream and toasted coconut if desired.

Pro Tips for Cheesecake Success

Use room temperature ingredients – Prevents lumps in batter
Don’t overbake – Center should still jiggle slightly
Water bath is crucial – Ensures even cooking without cracks
Chill thoroughly – Allows flavors to develop and texture to set

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cracked top – Overbaking or rapid temperature change
Dense texture – Overmixing after adding eggs
Soggy crust – Didn’t pre-bake or seal properly
Water seepage – Wrap pan in foil before water bath

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned pineapple?

A: Yes, but drain VERY well and pat dry with paper towels.

Q: How long does this keep?

A: Refrigerated up to 5 days, or freeze (without topping) 2 months.

Q: Can I make it without a water bath?

A: Not recommended – water bath prevents cracks and ensures even baking.

Q: What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A: Use 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment (harder to remove slices).

Final Thoughts: Taste the Tropics!

This Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake brings sunshine to any occasion with its perfect balance of creamy and tropical flavors. Whether you’re dreaming of beach vacations or just want a spectacular dessert, this recipe delivers paradise on a plate.

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake: A Tropical Dream Dessert

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 1H 20

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Description

Dive into a slice of tropical paradise with this Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake! This creamy and luscious cheesecake is infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

Fresh pineapple slices for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the springform pan.

Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the top of the cooled cheesecake.

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Garnish with fresh pineapple slices if desired, and serve chilled. Enjoy this tropical and delicious Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake!