Light and Fluffy Party Pineapple Cheesecake Recipe
This delightful Party Pineapple Cheesecake is a treasured recipe passed down from my mother, who originally adapted it from an aunt’s cherry cheesecake. My father’s aversion to cherries led my mother to experiment with pineapple, resulting in a dessert that became an instant hit within our family. Light, fluffy, and incredibly satisfying, this cheesecake is a joy to make and an even greater joy to eat. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special event, or simply treating yourself to something sweet. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Category | Cheesecake |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 8 to 12 servings |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner Cook |
| Keywords | Dessert, Cheese, Brunch, Less than 30 Minutes, Easy |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 263.2 |
| Total Fat | 17.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 31 mg |
| Sodium | 162.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugars | 20.7 g |
| Protein | 2.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 cups | Graham cracker crumbs |
| 1/4 cup | Sugar |
| 4 tablespoons | Butter (melted) |
| 1 teaspoon | Ground cinnamon |
| 4 cups | Cream cheese (softened) |
| 8-12 ounces | Drained crushed pineapple |
| 1 package | Dream Whip (or similar whipped topping mix) |
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix until well combined, creating a sandy texture.
- Form the Base: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 6×12 inch pan, ensuring an even layer that reaches the edges.
- Chill the Crust: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for about 45 minutes to set the crust.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whip the Dream Whip according to the package instructions, adding milk and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into small pieces and gradually add it to the whipped topping mixture. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, ensuring that it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out to create an even layer.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least three hours, allowing it to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the top with a few extra graham cracker crumbs before serving to add a decorative touch.
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Cheesecake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh or high-quality ingredients, especially the cream cheese and pineapple.
- Chill Time is Key: Allowing the cheesecake to chill adequately will enhance its flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step.
- Serving Suggestions: This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Conclusion
This Party Pineapple Cheesecake is not only a delightful dessert but also a lovely way to create cherished memories with friends and family. The lightness of the filling combined with the crunchy graham cracker crust makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
