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Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake Recipe

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3.8 from 40 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake combines the classic tropical flavors of caramelized pineapple and cherries with a rich, creamy cheesecake. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust atop a luscious pineapple-infused cream cheese filling, this dessert is baked in a water bath for perfect texture and a beautiful presentation when flipped. Ideal for special occasions or a unique twist on traditional cheesecake favorites.

Ingredients

Scale

Pineapple Topping

  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 10–12 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
  • Maraschino cherries (one for each ring)

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter

Cheesecake Filling

  • 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained well)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pineapple topping. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring occasionally until the mixture bubbles and caramelizes. Immediately pour this caramel into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Arrange the pineapple rings neatly on top of the caramel, then place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Set this assembly aside while preparing the crust.
  2. Make the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press this crumb mixture firmly over the pineapple rings and caramel in the pan, extending slightly up the sides to form a crust layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling; this helps the crust set properly.
  3. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). To prevent water from leaking into the cheesecake during baking, wrap the outside of your springform pan with aluminum foil tightly. Then, place the pan inside a larger baking dish that will accommodate a water bath.
  4. Make the cheesecake filling. Using a large bowl and a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until completely smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well until incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each just until combined to avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, distributing it evenly.
  5. Assemble and bake. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and pineapple topping in the springform pan. Carefully place the pan into the larger baking dish, then pour hot water into the larger dish until it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath. Bake the cheesecake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. This gentle baking method helps ensure a smooth, creamy texture without cracking.
  6. Cool and chill. Remove the springform pan from the water bath and let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
  7. Flip and serve. To serve, carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Place a serving platter on top of the pan and invert it so that the pineapple rings and cherries are on top, creating the classic upside-down presentation. Slice and enjoy this beautiful, indulgent dessert.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling without lumps.
  • Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.
  • Wrapping the springform pan with foil is crucial to prevent water leaks during the water bath bake.
  • The water bath baking method gives a silky, crack-free cheesecake texture.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight improves slicing and flavor development.
  • Pineapple rings can be fresh or canned; if fresh, grill slightly for extra flavor before caramelizing if desired.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://a-tale-of-two.com/pineapple-upside-down-cheesecake-recipe/