Description

Escape to a tropical paradise with every decadent bite of our Pineapple Right Side Up Cheesecake! Combining the lusciousness of cheesecake with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the nostalgic charm of a classic upside-down cake, this dessert is sure to transport you to sunny shores and swaying palm trees. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
46 grams brown sugar
42 grams sugar
6–7 tablespoons melted butter (add slowly, may not need all)

Cheesecake:

16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
80 grams sour cream, room temperature
1 tablespoon heavy cream, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
140 grams granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 eggs, room temperature
25 maraschino cherries, cut in half
4 slices canned pineapple, cut into chunks

Garnish:

Whipped cream
Pineapple slices (use the rest from 1 can, cut in half)
Cherries with stems

Instructions

Crust: Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C). Spray a 6×3-inch removable bottom pan with non-stick spray, line with parchment, and spray again. Mix crust ingredients and press into pan. Bake 10-12 minutes. Cool on a rack over a jellyroll pan.
Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until creamy, about 4-5 minutes, scraping the bowl a few times. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Add eggs gently, then fold in cherries and pineapple. Pour into crust. Bake at 300°F for 12 minutes, then at 225°F for 95 minutes without opening the oven. Leave in the off oven for 1 hour, then crack open the oven for another hour. Cool on a rack, then chill overnight. Remove from pan, place on cake plate, and garnish.

Notes

Serving Tips:

For a stunning presentation, top each slice of Pineapple Right Side Up Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a pineapple slice, garnished with a cherry on top. This adds a delightful burst of color and flavor to each serving.
Pair this tropical dessert with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the richness of the cheesecake perfectly.
To enhance the tropical theme, serve the cheesecake alongside a refreshing piña colada or a tropical fruit salad. The combination of flavors will transport your taste buds to a beachside paradise.
Enjoy this cheesecake chilled for the best texture and flavor. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly and bring out the full range of flavors.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftover Pineapple Right Side Up Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent any odors from permeating the dessert.
To maintain the cheesecake’s freshness and prevent it from drying out, consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap before refrigerating them. This will help preserve their moisture and flavor.
Avoid storing the cheesecake in the freezer, as this can alter its texture and affect the overall quality. Cheesecake tends to become grainy and lose its creamy consistency when frozen.
If you need to transport the cheesecake, place it in a sturdy cake carrier or container to prevent it from getting damaged or squished during transit. Keep it chilled with ice packs or in a cooler to maintain its freshness.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Pineapple Right Side Up Cheesecake stays fresh, delicious, and ready to delight your taste buds whenever you crave a taste of the tropics.