Indulge in a slice of home-baked nostalgia with this Pineapple upside down cheesecake—a delightful fusion of two beloved classics. This recipe combines the nostalgic charm of pineapple upside down cake with the creamy richness of cheesecake and a touch of cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert, it’s as impressive to serve as it is effortless.
While cheesecakes are traditionally baked in springform pans, our pineapple upside down cheesecake takes a unique twist using a skillet. This unconventional method allows the brown sugar and pineapple to caramelize nicely, creating a rich, gooey topping that perfectly complements the cheesecake filling. The skillet makes for a classic upside down presentation and adds a rustic charm, making it a standout dessert.
Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake Ingredients
- Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich caramel flavor to the pineapple topping.
- Canned pineapple: Canned pineapple serves as the fruity base, providing a tropical twist with its juicy texture and sweet flavor.
- Maraschino cherries: Maraschino cherries add color and sweetness to each pineapple slice.
- Cream cheese: Cream cheese creates a creamy and rich filling for the cheesecake.
- Confectioners’ sugar: Confectioners’ sugar sweetens and smoothens the filling.
- All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour helps bind and stabilize the cheesecake filling during baking.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enriches the filling with its rich flavor.
- Egg: A large egg binds the filling ingredients together for a smooth texture.
- Crushed pineapple: Crushed pineapple adds bursts of pineapple flavor to the cheesecake.
- Butter: Melted butter is mixed with graham cracker crumbs and cinnamon to create a toasted crust topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Graham cracker crumbs form a sweet and crumbly base for the cheesecake.
- Ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm flavor to the crust.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the pineapple topping
First, sprinkle brown sugar into an 8 inch ovenproof skillet, creating a sweet caramel base. Arrange the pineapple rings over the sugar, placing a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice. This produces the classic upside down look and adds fruity sweetness to your cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
Beat softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in flour and vanilla extract for a deliciously creamy base. Add the lightly beaten egg, beating it at low speed until blended. Gently fold in crushed pineapple to infuse the filling with tropical flavors.
Step 3: Bake and finish
Spoon the cheesecake filling over the pineapple in the skillet. Bake in a 325°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set and the center is slightly soft. Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes. Loosen the sides from the skillet with a knife and let it cool for an additional hour. Refrigerate overnight, covering once completely cooled.
Recipe Variations
- Add a tropical coconut twist: Mix some shredded coconut with the crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Brighten your cheesecake: For a refreshing citrusy flavor that brightens your cheesecake filling, add lemon or orange zest.
- Change the crust: Try adding different flavors to the graham cracker crust to complement the pineapple, such as ginger, vanilla or coconut.
How to Store Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake
Refrigerate any remaining cheesecake for up to three days. For longer storage, portions wrapped tightly in plastic and foil can be frozen for up to one month.
Upside Down Pineapple Cheesecake Recipe Tips
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
For a brighter taste, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
This cheesecake can be prepared in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs for the crust?
You can use gluten-free graham crackers or almond meal for a gluten-free alternative to graham cracker crumbs.
How do I ensure the cheesecake doesn’t stick to the skillet when I invert it?
To ensure the cheesecake doesn’t stick to the skillet when inverting it, run a knife around the edges to loosen it before inverting it onto a serving dish. You can also place the skillet over low heat for a few minutes to help loosen the caramelized topping.
