Description
A rich and creamy White Chocolate Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling studded with crushed pineapple and crunchy pecans, finished with a drizzle of melted white chocolate and extra nuts for added texture and sweetness.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Topping
- ½ cup white chocolate, melted
- Additional chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to ensure easy release of the cheesecake after baking.
- Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form a solid crust layer. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure thorough blending. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Fold in Pineapple and Pecans: Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans into the cream cheese mixture, distributing them evenly without overmixing to maintain texture.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the filling mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. Bake until the center is set and the top is lightly browned, resembling a soft custard with a slight jiggle in the middle.
- Cool: Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about an hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely and develop rich flavors.
- Add Topping and Serve: Before serving, drizzle the melted white chocolate evenly over the top of the cheesecake and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for garnish and extra crunch.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture which can affect the baking and texture.
- Use softened cream cheese for a smoother filling and easier mixing.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to minimize cracks on the surface.
- Chilling for several hours helps the cheesecake firm up and enhances flavor melding.
- Optionally, you can toast the pecans lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.