Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
Pineapple Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz (226 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
Pineapple Mousse Layer
- 2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
Decoration
- 12 pineapple tidbits
- 12 whipped cream rosettes
- ¼ cup white chocolate curls
- 2 tablespoons toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Step 3
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using the flat bottom of a measuring cup.
Compacting the crust is essential for clean slices.
Step 4
Refrigerate the crust for 20–30 minutes until firm.
Step 5
Beat the softened cream cheese for about 3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Step 6
Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
Beat another minute until creamy.
Step 7
Drain the crushed pineapple extremely well.
Place it in a fine mesh strainer for 20 minutes, then gently press with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
This step prevents a runny cheesecake.
Step 8
Fold the pineapple into the cheesecake mixture using a silicone spatula.
Do not overmix.
Step 9
Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Smooth with an offset spatula.
Step 10
Fold the pineapple into the whipped topping using slow folding motions.
Avoid stirring vigorously.
Step 11
Spread the mousse over the cheesecake layer.
Smooth carefully.
Step 12
Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate at least 6 hours.
For best results, chill overnight.
Step 13
Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edge.
Decorate with pineapple tidbits, white chocolate curls, and toasted coconut.
Step 14
Run a thin knife around the pan before releasing the springform ring.
Slice using a knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between every cut.
Serve cold.
Notes
✔ Always use block cream cheese.
✔ Room-temperature cream cheese prevents lumps.
✔ Drain canned pineapple extremely well.
✔ Refrigerating overnight produces cleaner slices.
✔ Toasting the coconut flakes adds extra flavor.
✔ Compact the crust firmly to prevent crumbling.
✔ Decorate just before serving for the freshest appearance.
✔ Do not freeze before the cheesecake has fully set.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
