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Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes

Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes


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  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Description

If you love the tropical sweetness of pineapple upside down cake and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, these Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes bring you the best of both worlds in one perfectly portioned dessert. With buttery caramelized pineapple, sweet maraschino cherries, and a smooth cheesecake filling, they’re fun, festive, and incredibly easy to make.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Fruit Layer:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed

  • 12 maraschino cherries

  • 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits or crushed pineapple (drained well)

For the Crust:

  • ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 2 tbsp sour cream

  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (helps stabilize)


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

  2. Line each cavity of a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

  3. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted butter into each liner, followed by 1 teaspoon of brown sugar.

  4. Add a cherry in the center and spoon 1 tablespoon of drained pineapple around it. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Crust

  1. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

  2. Stir until the texture resembles wet sand.

  3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into each cup over the pineapple layer.

  4. Press down firmly with a spoon or bottom of a small glass.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

  2. Add granulated sugar and mix until combined and creamy.

  3. Beat in eggs, one at a time.

  4. Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Mix just until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

  1. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each liner almost to the top.

  2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the centers are set and no longer jiggle.

  3. Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

  4. Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Step 5: Unmold and Serve

  1. Once chilled, carefully peel back the liners and invert the cheesecakes onto a serving platter.

  2. The caramelized pineapple and cherry should now be on top—beautiful and glossy.

  3. Garnish with fresh mint if desired and serve cold.

Notes

Drain the Pineapple Well – Excess juice can make the crust soggy.
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese – Ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t Overbake – The center should just be set to keep them creamy.
Chill Thoroughly – Cold cheesecakes hold their shape better when unmolded.
Gently Invert – Use care when flipping to keep the topping in place.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Cuisine: American