Pineapple Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce

Pineapple Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce

Ingredients:

• Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
• Cheesecake Filling:
  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Topping:
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp butter
• Caramel Sauce:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
   • Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with hot water to create a water bath.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour with the oven door slightly open.
   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Caramelized Pineapple Topping:
   • In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
   • Add the pineapple cubes and cook until they are caramelized and golden brown. Set aside to cool.
5. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
   • Cook, without stirring, until the sugar turns a deep amber color.
   • Carefully add the heavy cream (the mixture will bubble up) and stir until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
   • Top the cheesecake with the caramelized pineapple.
   • Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Enjoy your pineapple cheesecake with caramel sauce!