Combine the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake with the tropical, caramelized flavors of a pineapple upside-down cake. This show-stopping dessert is prepared in two main steps: baking the cheesecake a day ahead, followed by the pineapple cake assembly on serving day.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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6 tbsp melted butter (salted or unsalted)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
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3 packages (8 oz each / total 24 oz) cream cheese, softened (e.g., Philadelphia)
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1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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2 extra-large eggs
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3/4 cup heavy cream
For the Pineapple Cake Layer:
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20 oz can pineapple slices in juice (drained)
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1/2 cup light brown sugar
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4 tbsp salted butter (for caramel base)
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13 maraschino cherries (halved or whole)
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5 tbsp salted butter (melted, for batter)
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2/3 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup buttermilk
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1 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp baking soda
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1/4 tsp salt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Prepare the Cheesecake (Day Before Serving)
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Preheat & Prepare Pan:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Wrap the bottom and outer sides of a 9-inch springform pan securely with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from entering during the water bath.
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Make & Bake the Crust:
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In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1 tbsp sugar, and 6 tbsp melted butter.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom (and optionally 1/2 inch up the sides) of the prepared springform pan.
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Bake for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.
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Prepare Cheesecake Filling:
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In a large bowl using an electric mixer on low speed, beat 1 package of cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar, and cornstarch until smooth (about 3 minutes).
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Add the remaining cream cheese one package at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Increase speed to medium and mix in the remaining 1 1/3 cups sugar and vanilla extract.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the heavy cream, until just blended. Do not overmix.
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Water Bath & Baking:
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Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the side of the springform pan (about 1 inch).
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Carefully place in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
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Remove from the water bath and cool on a wire rack for 2 hours. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator overnight.
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Phase 2: Bake the Pineapple Cake (Serving Day)
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Caramel & Fruit Layer:
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