Description
Cheesecakes have a long-standing reputation for being the star of any dessert table, and our Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is no exception. Drawing inspiration from Southern hospitality and tropical flavors, this cheesecake combines the tangy sweetness of pineapples with the citrusy zest of oranges, creating a refreshing and delightful treat. This recipe brings together a harmonious blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for cheesecake lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- Orange and yellow food coloring (optional)
- Pineapple slices, for garnish
- Orange slices, for garnish
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and beat until combined.
- Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the crushed pineapple, orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
- Color the batter: Divide the batter into two bowls. Add orange food coloring to one bowl and yellow food coloring to the other, if desired. Swirl both batters together in the prepared crust.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before running a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen. Cool completely before removing the rim of the pan.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with pineapple slices, orange slices, whipped cream, and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy batter.
- Avoid over-mixing: Over-mixing the batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Use a water bath: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath can help prevent cracks and ensure even baking.