Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe

Dreamy Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe for Sweet Joy

Sweet pineapple cheesecake tantalizes taste buds with its tropical allure and creamy texture.

Smooth cream cheese mingles with bright, tangy fruit for a delightful culinary experience.

Tropical ingredients redefine an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary indulgence that promises pure satisfaction.

Rich layers of velvety filling capture the essence of sunny island flavors.

Delicate balance between sweet and tart creates a mouthwatering sensation that dances across your palate.

Silky smooth consistency and golden crust elevate this classic treat to new heights of deliciousness.

Creamy, luscious, and utterly irresistible, this dessert will become your new favorite summer indulgence.

Island‑Style Assembly for Your Pineapple Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) to get ready for baking magic.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Melted butter

Blend until perfectly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into a 9×9 inch baking dish. Bake for 9 minutes, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Prep the Pineapple

Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly, removing all excess liquid to keep your dessert perfectly balanced.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

Using a stand mixer, blend:
  • Softened butter
  • Cream cheese

Mix until silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to mix. Gently fold in 3/4 of the drained pineapple. Spread this luscious mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 5: Layer the Fluffy Topping

In a separate bowl, softly combine:
  • Cool whip
  • Remaining crushed pineapple

Spread this light and airy layer over the cream cheese base.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Crunch

Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top for an extra delightful texture.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This allows all the flavors to mingle and create pure deliciousness.

Step 8: Serve and Celebrate

Slice into perfect squares and serve chilled. Get ready for a tropical taste explosion that will make everyone’s taste buds dance with joy!

Pro Tips for a Silky‑Smooth Tropical Cheesecake

  • Drain Thoroughly: Squeeze excess moisture from pineapple using a clean kitchen towel to prevent a watery cheesecake texture.
  • Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
  • Crumb Crust Technique: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, crisp base that won't crumble.
  • Layer with Care: Use a spatula to spread each layer gently, creating clean, distinct layers for a visually appealing dessert.
  • Chill Completely: Allow the cheesecake to set overnight for maximum flavor melding and the perfect creamy consistency.

Storage Solutions for Your Pineapple Cheesecake Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Carefully cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Serve Cold: Always enjoy this dessert chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor. Avoid leaving at room temperature for extended periods.

Sip and Savor: Drink Pairings for Tropical Cheesecake

  • Tropical Rum Pairing: Complement the pineapple cheesecake with a smooth coconut rum cocktail, enhancing the tropical fruit notes and adding a subtle kick that perfectly matches the dessert's creamy texture.
  • Sparkling Moscato Match: Select a chilled, sweet Moscato wine to balance the tangy pineapple and rich cream cheese layers, creating a light and refreshing flavor combination that dances on the palate.
  • Crisp Coffee Contrast: Serve alongside a cold brew or iced espresso to cut through the sweetness, providing a bold counterpoint that highlights the dessert's creamy and fruity elements.
  • Vanilla Bean Sidekick: Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to amplify the dessert's creamy texture and add an extra layer of indulgent richness that elevates the entire tasting experience.

Twist It Up: Funky Flavors to Mix with Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Tropical Sunshine Remix: Replace cool whip with coconut cream and add toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra tropical flavor burst.
  • Caramel Pineapple Dream: Drizzle caramel sauce between cream cheese and whipped layers, creating rich swirls of sweet complexity.
  • Berry Pineapple Paradise: Incorporate fresh raspberries or strawberries between cream cheese and topping layers for a vibrant color and tangy contrast.
  • Nutty Island Escape: Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts or pecans across the top layer for added crunch and nutty warmth.

Discover the Tropical Charm of Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Tropical Flavor Explosion: Bursts with sweet and tangy pineapple throughout every creamy layer, creating a mouthwatering tropical dessert that transports your taste buds to a sunny paradise.
  • No-Bake Creamy Convenience: Requires minimal cooking skills and offers a simple layered preparation method that's perfect for beginner bakers, with most of the time spent chilling rather than active cooking.
  • Texture Wonderland: Combines multiple delightful textures from the crunchy graham cracker base to the smooth cream cheese layer and light cool whip topping, providing a satisfying sensory experience in each bite.
  • Make-Ahead Party Pleaser: Can be prepared entirely the night before, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations without last-minute stress or complicated preparation.

Pantry Essentials for a Sunshine‑Inspired Dessert

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sweet and crunchy base that provides a classic cheesecake foundation with delightful texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds rich, golden flavor when melted.
Cream Cheese Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth, tangy base that creates the classic cheesecake richness and creamy texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Softens the mixture and adds a subtle, rich undertone to the cream cheese layer.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth, light consistency.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Adds tropical sweetness and moisture to the cream cheese filling, with extra reserved for topping.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Cool Whip: Light and fluffy topping that adds a creamy, airy finish to the dessert.
  • Reserved Crushed Pineapple: Adds a fresh, fruity garnish and brings a pop of tropical flavor to the top of the dessert.
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Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe

Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy New York-style pineapple cheesecake delivers tropical paradise on a plate. Rich cream cheese melts with sweet caramelized pineapple, offering pure indulgence that sweeps you into delightful dessert bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 20 ounces (567 grams) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cool whip
  • 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups (300 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Binding/Additional Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup reserved crushed pineapple

Instructions

  1. Craft the foundational graham cracker base by thoroughly incorporating melted butter into the crumbs, creating a cohesive mixture that will form a sturdy crust.
  2. Transfer the buttery crumb blend into a 9×9 inch baking vessel, pressing firmly to establish an even, compact layer that will anchor the dessert’s structure.
  3. Carefully toast the crust in a preheated 350°F oven for approximately 9 minutes, allowing it to develop a golden, crisp texture before removing and permitting complete cooling.
  4. Meticulously drain the crushed pineapple, eliminating excess moisture to prevent potential sogginess in the final dessert.
  5. Utilize a stand mixer to whip softened cream cheese and butter until achieving a silky, uniform consistency that promises a luxurious mouthfeel.
  6. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, continuously blending until achieving a smooth, lump-free texture.
  7. Gently fold three-quarters of the drained pineapple into the cream cheese blend, distributing the fruit evenly to ensure balanced flavor in every bite.
  8. Delicately spread the pineapple-infused cream cheese layer across the cooled crust, creating an even, attractive surface.
  9. In a separate bowl, tenderly combine cool whip with the remaining pineapple, blending until harmoniously integrated.
  10. Elegantly layer the cool whip mixture atop the cream cheese foundation, creating a light, airy complementary tier.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs over the top, adding a delightful textural contrast and visual appeal.
  12. Encase the dessert in plastic wrap and allow it to rest in the refrigerator overnight, enabling the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly.
  13. When ready to serve, slice into precise squares and present chilled, offering a refreshing and indulgent tropical-inspired treat.

Notes

  • Secretly drain pineapple chunks thoroughly to prevent soggy layers and maintain perfect cheesecake texture.
  • Chilling overnight allows flavors to meld and develop a rich, creamy consistency that melts in your mouth.
  • Graham cracker topping adds delightful crunch, creating a delicious contrast against smooth cream cheese and silky cool whip layers.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Alex Reed

Alex Reed

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Culinary Education​, Food Writing and Blogging​, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Global Cuisine Exploration

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and contemporary cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development. Emphasized hands-on experience in diverse culinary traditions.​

Le Cordon Bleu Paris

  • Program: Diplôme de Cuisine
  • Focus: Advanced instruction in French culinary techniques, including sauce preparation, pâtisserie, and haute cuisine.​

Alex Reed is an inventive chef and food creator with a passion for dishes that balance taste, health, and sustainability. 

Trained at Portland Community College and holding an Advanced Pastry Arts certificate from Oregon Culinary Institute, Alex brings more than 10 years of practical culinary experience to every recipe he develops. 

His background uniquely blends traditional cooking skills with modern, mindful eating principles. As the founder of Beard and Bonnet, Alex creates recipes that encourage readers to cook confidently.

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