Pineapple Paradise Mini Cheesecakes

These Pineapple Paradise Mini Cheesecakes are a tropical delight with a creamy cheesecake base, a tangy pineapple topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. The perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, these mini cheesecakes bring the flavors of paradise straight to your dessert table!

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 graham crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Pineapple Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (or fresh pineapple finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Pineapple Topping:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of pineapple)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional for added zing)

For Garnish (optional):

• Toasted coconut flakes
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Mini Cheesecake Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Line a 12-cup mini cheesecake pan (or a muffin tin) with paper liners or grease each cup with cooking spray.
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.
   • Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated.
   • Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each mini cheesecake cup. Use the back of a spoon to press the crumbs down firmly to form a crust.
   • Bake the crusts for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Pineapple Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sour cream and sugar, and continue mixing until smooth and combined.
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, crushed pineapple, and heavy cream until fully incorporated.
   • The filling should be smooth, and the pineapple should be evenly distributed.
4. Fill the Cheesecakes:
   • Spoon the pineapple cheesecake filling evenly into each cup over the prepared crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
   • Smooth the tops with a spatula.
   • Bake the mini cheesecakes for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
   • Let the cheesecakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Pineapple Topping:
   • While the cheesecakes are cooling, prepare the topping by combining the pineapple chunks, honey (if using), and lime juice (if using) in a small bowl. Toss gently to combine.
   • If you’d like a more syrupy topping, you can simmer the pineapple in a small pan with honey or sugar for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
6. Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes:
   • Once the mini cheesecakes are fully cooled and chilled (about 2 hours), spoon a generous amount of the pineapple topping over each cheesecake.
   • For added flair, garnish with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Your Pineapple Paradise Mini Cheesecakes are ready to serve! These tropical treats are the perfect way to bring a little bit of paradise to your table.

Tips for Success:

• Topping Variations: You can use other tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or kiwi as a topping for a tropical mix of flavors.
• Make-Ahead: These mini cheesecakes can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The pineapple topping can also be prepared ahead of time and stored separately.
• Creaminess: If you want a lighter texture, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the pineapple before mixing it into the filling. You can also skip the chunks in the topping for a smoother finish.

These Pineapple Paradise Mini Cheesecakes are an irresistible tropical dessert that combines creamy, rich cheesecake with a zesty pineapple topping. Perfect for summer parties, holiday gatherings, or just when you’re craving a taste of paradise!