This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the tropical flavor of coconut for a truly delightful cheesecake. The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy base, while the creamy filling is light and refreshing.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions:
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Beat in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in pineapple juice and drained crushed pineapple.
- Fold in toasted coconut.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Then, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
Tips:
- To toast coconut, spread shredded coconut in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden brown.
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, add a few tablespoons of pineapple preserves to the filling.
- Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, toasted coconut flakes, and a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
Enjoy this delicious and refreshing Pineapple Coconut Cheesecake!