Imagine a cool, creamy dessert that bursts with sunny pineapple flavor and melts perfectly on your tongue. That’s the magic of Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake—a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat that tastes like tropical paradise in every bite! With its buttery graham cracker crust, silky pineapple-infused filling, and a glistening crown of sweet-tart pineapple topping, this cheesecake is the ultimate showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family get-together or just want to make an ordinary night feel special, Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is guaranteed to win hearts (and tastebuds!) every single time.

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this recipe is how easy the ingredients are to find and how each one brings its own special flair—whether it’s tangy creaminess, golden crunch, or bursts of tropical sweetness. Each element plays a vital role in transforming everyday staples into something truly extraordinary.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Bring buttery sweetness and that classic, crunchy base we all crave in a good cheesecake.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup for crust, 1 cup for filling, 2 tablespoons for topping): Lends just the right sweetness to all three layers, balancing the tangy and tropical flavors.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Holds the crust together and ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.
Cream cheese, softened (24 ounces): The star of the show! Gives the cheesecake its dreamy, creamy texture and subtle tang.
Large eggs (3): Bind everything together, creating that signature velvety filling.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Sour cream (1 cup): Adds silkiness and a hint of tang that helps balance the sweetness.
Crushed pineapple, well drained (2 cups total – 1 cup for filling, 1 cup for topping): Supplies a pop of juicy, tropical goodness in both the filling and atop the cheesecake.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the pineapple topping to perfection.
Water (2 tablespoons): Helps create the glossy, luscious pineapple topping.
Whipped cream and pineapple chunks (for garnish): Make each slice look irresistible and even more indulgent.

How to Make Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the melted butter until everything resembles wet sand. Press this heavenly mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using your fingers or the bottom of a glass for a smooth, even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes to set. Remove, and let the crust cool while you work on the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Pineapple Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This is where patience pays off—lumps have no place in Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition so everything stays silky. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, then gently fold in 1 cup of well-drained crushed pineapple. (A gentle hand here keeps the filling light and airy!) Pour the luscious batter into your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Set Up the Water Bath and Bake

To prevent cracks and ensure a cloud-like texture, place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan, coming about halfway up the sides of your cheesecake pan. This water bath method helps the cake bake gently and evenly. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the center is set but still just a bit jiggly when you tap the pan. Don’t worry—the jiggle means a creamy bite later!

Step 4: Cool Slowly and Chill

Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. This slow cooling process keeps the top from splitting. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the water bath, let it cool completely at room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (but overnight is even better) to let the flavors meld and the texture set to velvet perfection.

Step 5: Prepare the Pineapple Topping

While the cheesecake chills, make the topping: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained), 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons water. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture is bubbly and thick—this takes about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake for a glossy, golden crown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

Just before serving, unleash your inner artist! Decorate the cheesecake with fluffy swirls of whipped cream and juicy pineapple chunks. Each slice looks like a piece of sunshine and tastes even better.

How to Serve Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

Garnishes

Garnishing is your secret weapon to making Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake irresistible! Pipe little rosettes of whipped cream around the edge, then place pineapple chunks—or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut if you’re feeling adventurous—on top. These finishing touches make every slice look bakery-worthy and instantly inviting.

Side Dishes

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake plays beautifully with simple accompaniments. A handful of fresh berries, a light fruit salad, or even a scoop of coconut sorbet can complement its creamy richness and balance the tropical flavors. Consider serving with coffee or a chilled glass of Moscato for that extra-special touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Ready to wow your guests? Try cutting the cheesecake into mini squares for a dessert buffet, layering slices into parfait cups with extra pineapple and whipped cream, or drizzling warm caramel over the top. For a festive twist, serve on colorful tropical plates or adorn each slice with an edible flower. Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is just as fun to play with as it is to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) will keep beautifully. Simply cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen over time, so your next-day slice might be even better than the first.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the topping and garnishes just before serving.

Reheating

No need to reheat this cheesecake—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold for the ultimate creamy texture. If you prefer it closer to room temperature, let your slice sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving, but always keep leftovers refrigerated for food safety.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just finely chop the fresh pineapple and be sure to drain it very well to prevent excess moisture from making the cheesecake runny. If you want the signature texture, canned or crushed pineapple is reliably consistent.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

The secret is in the water bath and a gentle cooling process. Both help regulate the temperature, preventing cracks along the top. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter or overbake—the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out.

Can I make Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and double-check your other ingredients to be sure they’re certified gluten-free. The result will be just as creamy and luscious.

Is it possible to make the recipe ahead of time?

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is actually better when made in advance! Prepare it a day before your event, letting it chill overnight. Add the topping and garnishes right before serving for fresh flavor and stunning presentation.

Can I add coconut to the recipe?

Yes, and it’s such a delicious twist! Sprinkle some shredded coconut in the crust mixture for a nutty bite, or toast coconut flakes and use them as a tropical garnish on top. It pairs beautifully with the pineapple flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both a stunning centerpiece and irresistibly delicious, Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is your answer. The creamy filling, bursts of pineapple, and velvety topping come together in a treat that brightens any table. Trust me—your friends and family will be begging for the recipe after just one bite, so don’t wait too long to whip up this slice of paradise!

Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the tropical flavors of this Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake. Creamy, rich, and bursting with pineapple goodness, this dessert is a slice of paradise on a plate.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

24 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained

For the topping:

1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Whipped cream and pineapple chunks for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Place pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides for a water bath. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. Remove and cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
For the topping, combine pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Cool completely before spreading over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with whipped cream and pineapple chunks before serving.

Notes

Make sure the pineapple is well drained to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.
For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the crust or toasted coconut on top as garnish.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American