Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake

A delicious fusion of classic pineapple upside-down cake and creamy cheesecake, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 12

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Ingredients

For the Pineapple Upside-Down Layer:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed

• 1 (20 oz / 567g) can pineapple slices (reserve juice)

• 10-12 maraschino cherries, drained

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• ¼ cup (60ml) reserved pineapple juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup (60g) sour cream

• 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour

For the Crust (Optional):

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Layer

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. In a 9-inch springform pan, pour melted butter and spread evenly.

3. Sprinkle brown sugar over the butter, pressing lightly to form an even layer.

4. Arrange pineapple slices on top (about 6-7 slices). Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (~3 minutes).

2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

3. Mix in pineapple juice, vanilla, sour cream, and flour until fully combined.

Step 3: Optional Crust Layer

• If using a crust, mix graham crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan over the pineapple layer before adding cheesecake batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour cheesecake batter over the pineapple layer.

2. Place the pan on a baking sheet (to catch drips) and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly.

3. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let it cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

2. Run a knife around the edges, then invert onto a serving plate.

3. Slice and enjoy!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

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Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes.

• Add coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple layer for extra flavor.

• Caramel drizzle: Top with caramel sauce before serving.

Enjoy this tropical twist on a classic dessert! 🍍🍰