Description

These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes combine the best of two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake center, and a sweet caramelized pineapple topping, these individual desserts are bursting with tropical flavor and eye-catching presentation. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a sweet escape in bite-sized form!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Topping:

⅓ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter
6 maraschino cherries, halved
6 pineapple rings, trimmed to fit muffin tin (or use crushed pineapple)

For the Crust:

¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp granulated sugar
3 tbsp melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
Make Topping: In a small saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until smooth and bubbly. Spoon about 1 tsp into the bottom of each muffin cup. Top with a cherry half and a small piece of pineapple or a spoonful of crushed pineapple.
Make Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press about 1 tbsp of mixture into each muffin cup over the topping. Press firmly to form a base.
Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg, vanilla, and sour cream (if using), and mix until fully combined.
Assemble: Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crusts, filling each cup nearly to the top.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes or until centers are just set. Cool in pan, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Serve: Once chilled, carefully remove cheesecakes from liners and invert to reveal the pineapple topping. Serve cold.

Notes

For best results, use silicone muffin liners or grease well for easier removal.

You can use crushed pineapple if rings are too large for your muffin cups.

Make a day ahead—these taste even better after chilling overnight.

Try topping with toasted coconut or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: pineapple upside-down cheesecake, mini cheesecake, tropical dessert, pineapple dessert, summer treat