Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Topping
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray.
- In each muffin cup, place a small pat of butter and sprinkle about a teaspoon of brown sugar on top. Then, place a pineapple ring (or a piece small enough to fit) in each cup, with a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring.
2. Make the Crust
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are moistened.
- Press about a tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each muffin cup on top of the pineapple. Press it down firmly to create a compact crust layer.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over each crust, filling the muffin cups nearly to the top.
4. Bake
- Bake the cheesecakes in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers have a slight jiggle.
- Allow the cheesecakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before running a knife around the edges to loosen them. Gently invert the cheesecakes onto a baking sheet or serving platter, revealing the beautiful pineapple topping.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled. Serve cold, and enjoy the burst of tropical flavor in every bite!
Tips for Perfect Mini Cheesecakes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for the smoothest cheesecake filling.
- Press the Crust Firmly: This helps keep the crust intact when flipping the cheesecakes out of the muffin tin.
- Invert Carefully: If needed, use a knife to loosen the edges of each cheesecake before inverting to prevent sticking.
Make It Your Own
- Add Coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the cheesecakes for an extra tropical touch.
- Swap the Fruit: Try using other fruits like mango or peach for a fun variation.
- Drizzle with Caramel: For added decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Perfect for Any Occasion!
These Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecakes are sure to brighten up any event with their tropical flair and charming presentation. They’re great for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering where you want to add a touch of sweetness and style. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead, so you can focus on enjoying your event and impressing your guests with a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Enjoy these little bites of paradise! 🍍🍒✨
Let me know if you’d like to make any tweaks or add more details to make it your own!
