Description
These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: the rich, creamy cheesecake and the sweet, caramelized pineapple topping. Perfect for parties or personal indulgence, these individual-sized cheesecakes are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or substitute with vanilla wafer crumbs or crushed cookies)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks (or 1 can pineapple rings, drained)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 12 maraschino cherries (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar (if using), and salt until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottoms of 12 mini cheesecake pans or a muffin tin.
- Bake the crusts for 5-7 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Topping:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until it melts and starts to bubble.
- Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is softened and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until smooth.
- Add a pinch of salt and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Cheesecakes:
- Spoon the caramelized pineapple mixture into the bottom of each mini cheesecake pan.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pineapple layer, filling each pan about 2/3 full.
- Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
5. Bake and Cool:
- Bake the cheesecakes at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to the fridge to chill for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight.
6. Serve:
- After chilling, carefully remove the cheesecakes from the pans.
- If desired, top each cheesecake with a maraschino cherry.
- Serve chilled, and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer, you can use canned pineapple rings, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- These mini cheesecakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For variations, you can substitute the pineapple with mango, peach, or berries for a different tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- For a fun presentation, serve on a tiered dessert stand for a beautiful display at parties or events.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: 290