Creamy Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe

Tropical Pineapple Cheesecake: Heavenly Dessert Recipe

Creamy, rich, and bursting with tropical flavor, this mouthwatering pineapple cheesecake dessert recipe promises a slice of pure indulgence.

Sweet pineapple chunks dance through a silky smooth cream cheese base that melts on your tongue.

Each forkful brings a delightful contrast of tangy and sweet notes that sing with tropical brightness.

the golden graham cracker crust provides a perfect crunchy foundation for this luscious treat.

Layers of velvety filling and bright fruit create a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting.

Whip up this showstopping cheesecake for your next gathering, and watch as everyone asks for seconds.

Get ready to become the dessert hero with this irresistible pineapple cheesecake that turns any ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 12 hours 39 minutes

Calories: 288 kcal

Servings: 13

What You’ll Need for Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert

For Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a crispy, sweet foundation that complements the creamy filling and adds delightful texture to the dessert.
  • Unsalted Butter: Binds the crumbs together, creating a sturdy and rich base that holds the cheesecake layers perfectly.
For Cream Cheese Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Delivers a velvety, tangy backbone that creates the classic cheesecake richness and smooth consistency.
  • Unsalted Butter: Enhances creaminess and adds a subtle buttery depth to the filling's flavor profile.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mixture while ensuring a silky, lump-free texture that blends seamlessly.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Introduces a tropical, bright burst of fruity flavor and natural sweetness to the cream cheese layer.
For Topping Layer:
  • Cool Whip: Provides a light, airy finish that adds a cloud-like softness and creates visual appeal.
  • Reserved Crushed Pineapple: Offers a fresh, juicy garnish that adds a pop of color and refreshing tropical accent to the dessert.

Tools for the Irresistible Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Stand Mixer: Essential for creaming butter and cream cheese to a smooth consistency.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for blending graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
  • 9×9 Inch Baking Dish: Ideal size for creating the layered dessert.
  • Measuring Cups: Crucial for accurately measuring ingredients.
  • Spatula: Great for spreading layers evenly and folding ingredients.
  • Plastic Wrap: Needed to cover and refrigerate the dessert.
  • Knife: Used for cutting the cheesecake into neat squares when serving.

Instructions for Crafting Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert

  • Crust Foundation

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with melted butter. Press mixture firmly into baking dish, creating a solid base that will hold the luscious layers of the dessert.

  • Creamy Cheese Blend

Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually incorporating powdered sugar. Fold in most of the drained pineapple, creating a tangy and rich filling that will make taste buds dance.

  • Fluffy Topping

Gently mix cool whip with remaining pineapple pieces, creating a light and airy crown for the cheesecake. This layer adds a delightful softness and tropical hint to the dessert.

  • Crumbly Finale

Sprinkle remaining graham cracker crumbs across the top, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers underneath.

  • Chilling Magic

Cover the dish and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This resting period allows flavors to meld and the dessert to set perfectly, transforming individual ingredients into a harmonious treat.

  • Serving Delight

Slice into elegant squares and serve chilled. Each bite promises a burst of creamy, fruity, and crunchy sensations that will transport everyone to a tropical paradise.

Tips & Variations to Elevate Your Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Pineapple Perfection Tricks: Drain pineapple thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to prevent excess moisture from making the dessert soggy.
  • Texture Transformation: For extra crunch, toast the graham cracker crumbs in the oven for 3-4 minutes before mixing with butter, enhancing the base's nutty flavor profile.
  • Flavor Boosters: Experiment with adding a splash of coconut extract to the cream cheese layer for a tropical twist, or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and depth.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: This dessert can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making it an excellent option for stress-free entertaining or potluck gatherings.
  • Creamy Consistency Hack: Let cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smoother, lump-free filling that spreads effortlessly.

How to Serve Pineapple Cheesecake Like a Pro

  • Tropical Vacation Plating: Serve each slice on a vibrant green leaf for a stunning island-inspired presentation that transports taste buds to a beachy paradise.
  • Garnish Galore: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or add a maraschino cherry on top to elevate the visual appeal and create a classic dessert look that's instagram-worthy.
  • Dessert Pairing Magic: Complement the pineapple cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance the creamy texture and add extra indulgence.
  • Brunch Brilliant: Transform this dessert into a decadent brunch centerpiece by serving alongside fresh tropical fruits like mango slices or kiwi for a bright, refreshing morning treat.

Keep and Enjoy Pineapple Cheesecake Later

  • Refrigeration Magic: Store this delectable cheesecake in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the dessert covered to maintain its creamy texture and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Freezing Technique: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. These slices can stay frozen for 2-3 weeks without losing their delightful flavor and smooth consistency.
  • Thawing Wisdom: Transfer frozen cheesecake slices to the refrigerator 4-6 hours before serving. This gentle thawing method ensures the dessert retains its original creamy texture and prevents moisture buildup.
  • Make-Ahead Brilliance: Prepare the entire cheesecake up to 2 days in advance for stress-free entertaining. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, making it a perfect do-ahead dessert for gatherings or special occasions.
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Creamy Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe

Creamy Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 12 hours 39 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

York-style pineapple cheesecake blends tropical sweetness with rich cream cheese. Guests will savor each silky slice of this delightful dessert that promises pure indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 oz (567 g) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz (226 g) cool whip
  • 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 ½ cups (300 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup reserved crushed pineapple

Instructions

  1. Prepare Crust: Meld melted butter with graham cracker crumbs, pressing the mixture firmly into a 9×9 inch baking pan to create a uniform base. Toast in a 350°F oven for 9 minutes until golden, then cool completely.
  2. Create Cream Cheese Layer: Whip softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth, gradually blending in powdered sugar. Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly, then fold three-quarters of the fruit into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
  3. Assemble Filling: Spread the pineapple-infused cream cheese layer evenly across the cooled crust, ensuring a consistent surface.
  4. Top with Whipped Layer: Blend remaining pineapple with cool whip, creating a light, airy mixture. Carefully spread this topping over the cream cheese foundation.
  5. Finish and Chill: Garnish with remaining graham cracker crumbs for added texture. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set firmly.
  6. Serve: Cut into precise squares, presenting a chilled, tropical-inspired dessert that balances creamy, fruity, and crisp elements.

Notes

  • Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Remove maximum moisture to prevent a soggy dessert base and maintain structural integrity.
  • Blend Cream Cheese Smoothly: Whip ingredients until silky and lump-free for a luxurious, creamy texture that ensures even distribution.
  • Chill for Flavor Fusion: Refrigerate overnight to allow ingredients to marry, enhancing overall taste and helping layers set perfectly.
  • Create Stable Crust Foundation: Press graham cracker base firmly and bake briefly to develop golden, crisp texture that supports subsequent layers.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 288
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg
Emily Roberts

Emily Roberts

Content Creator & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Dietary Planning​, Public Health Nutrition, Nutritional Education​, Content Development​

Education

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Degree: Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
  • Focus: Research on dietary patterns and their impact on chronic diseases.​

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

  • Credential: Expertise in translating nutrition science into practical advice. ​

Emily Roberts is our content specialist and registered dietitian at HealthyChoices.org. With her Master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Illinois and her Registered Dietitian Nutritionist certification, Emily uses her deep nutrition knowledge to write helpful, easy-to-understand guides about healthy eating. 

Her warm, practical advice empowers readers to confidently make healthier choices, turning everyday meals into simple moments of wellness and joy.

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