Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes Recipe
These Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes combine a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy cream cheese filling and tropical pineapple topping. Baked in individual portions and drizzled with caramel sauce, these delightful treats are perfect for parties or an elegant dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Divide this evenly among the muffin cups, pressing firmly with a spoon or glass bottom to create a solid base.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
- Assemble the Cheesecakes: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the muffin cups about three-quarters full. Top each with several pineapple chunks, gently pressing them into the filling.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set but centers still jiggle slightly. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up. Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and optionally garnish with maraschino cherries or mint leaves.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Drain pineapple chunks thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in cheesecakes.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on oven accuracy; watch for set edges and slightly jiggly centers.
- Chilling overnight yields firmer cheesecakes and better flavor melding.
- Use paper liners in muffin tins for easy removal and clean-up.
Keywords: pineapple upside down, mini cheesecakes, individual cheesecakes, pineapple dessert, caramel sauce, graham cracker crust
