This Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is a tropical delight that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, refreshing flavor of pineapple. With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a hint of whipped cream, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake.

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup whipped cream

Directions

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and whipped cream, combining until well-mixed.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration)

Variations

Fruit Toppings: For extra flavor and color, top the cheesecake with additional fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, kiwi, or coconut flakes.
Flavored Crust: Experiment with a flavored crust by adding a little cinnamon, coconut flakes, or a combination of crushed cookies (like vanilla wafers) with the graham cracker crumbs.
Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute in place of regular sugar and a sugar-free whipped cream for a lower-calorie version of this cheesecake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month. Be sure to cover it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: This cheesecake is served chilled, so there is no need to reheat. Simply remove it from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

10 FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you must ensure to chop and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this cheesecake? Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese to reduce the fat content, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie alternative for the crust.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream? Yes, you can use whipped topping as a substitute for whipped cream if you prefer a longer shelf life or a more stable topping.
How long can this cheesecake be left out at room temperature? It’s best not to leave the cheesecake out for more than 2 hours as it contains dairy. Always store it in the refrigerator when not serving.
Can I use pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple? Yes, you can use pineapple chunks, but make sure to finely chop them and drain them thoroughly before folding them into the mixture.
How can I make the crust more flavorful? You can add cinnamon or coconut flakes to the graham cracker mixture for added flavor.
Can I use a springform pan instead of a 9×13-inch pan? Yes, you can use a springform pan, but make sure to adjust the amount of ingredients to fit the size of the pan.
Is there an alternative to whipped cream? Yes, you can use heavy cream or whipped topping if you prefer, though the texture might be a little different.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.

Conclusion

This Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake is the perfect dessert to satisfy both cheesecake lovers and tropical fruit fans alike. With its creamy texture, refreshing pineapple flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a light yet indulgent treat that will be a hit at any occasion. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.