Description
Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes combine a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and caramelized pineapple topping into perfectly portioned treats. Great for parties or a tropical-inspired dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 6 pineapple rings (canned or fresh), cut into small pieces
- 6 maraschino cherries
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar until dissolved to create caramel sauce.
- Add pineapple pieces and cook for 2–3 minutes until caramelized. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with 6 paper liners.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until sandy.
- Press 1 ½ tablespoons of mixture into each liner, packing firmly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract, egg, and sour cream until creamy and well-combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecakes
- Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of caramelized pineapple mixture onto each crust.
- Divide cheesecake filling evenly among liners.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until centers are set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
- Carefully peel off liners and invert cheesecakes onto plates.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry in the center of each.
Notes
- Variations:
- Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
- Replace pineapple with mango for a fruity variation.
- Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individually wrapped cheesecakes for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mini pineapple upside-down cheesecakes Pineapple cheesecake cups Individual cheesecake recipe Tropical mini desserts Easy party dessert ideas