Description
These Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes combine the classic flavors of pineapple upside down cake with creamy cheesecake in a convenient single-serving muffin form. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, juicy pineapple chunks, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, these delightful treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or an indulgent dessert at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 can (20-ounce) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture is well blended and holds together when pressed.
- Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup, creating an even crust base for the cheesecake.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the filling with additional flavor.
- Assemble the Cheesecakes: Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising during baking.
- Add Pineapple Toppings: Place a few drained pineapple chunks on top of the cheesecake batter in each cup to replicate the pineapple upside down effect.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely while still in the muffin tin to maintain their shape.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle each mini cheesecake with caramel sauce for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overfill the muffin cups to prevent overflow during baking.
- Pineapple chunks should be well drained to avoid excess moisture affecting the crust.
- These mini cheesecakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- For easier removal, let the cheesecakes cool completely and gently lift them out using the paper liners.
- Optionally, add a maraschino cherry on top for a classic pineapple upside down cake look.
