Name: Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs.; ¼ cup melted butter.; 2 tablespoons sugar.; 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened.; 1 cup sugar.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.; 3 large eggs.; 1 cup sour cream.; ¼ cup all-purpose flour.; ½ cup pineapple juice.; ½ cup orange juice.; Orange food coloring.; Whipped cream (for garnish).; Fresh pineapple slices.; Orange slices.; Fresh mint leaves.

Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is the perfect tropical-inspired summer dessert. With its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors of pineapple and orange, this cheesecake will transport you to a sunny, southern paradise. The marbled swirl of fruit juices creates a beautiful presentation, and the buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect base. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress with its delightful flavor and stunning appearance.

This Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake brings the refreshing flavors of pineapple and orange to a creamy and indulgent cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a beautifully swirled filling, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or a tropical-inspired treat. The cream cheese filling, flavored with pineapple and orange juices, is rich and smooth, while the decorative swirl adds a stunning visual appeal. Serve this cheesecake topped with whipped cream, fresh pineapple, orange slices, and a sprig of mint for a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

INGREDIENTS

Graham cracker crumbs: 1 ½ cups, for the crust.
Melted butter: ¼ cup, to bind the crust together.
Sugar: 2 tablespoons for the crust, 1 cup for the filling, to sweeten the cheesecake.
Cream cheese: 3 (8 oz) packages, softened, for the smooth, creamy base.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for added flavor in the filling.
Large eggs: 3, to bind the filling together and create a smooth texture.
Sour cream: 1 cup, to add creaminess and tang to the cheesecake filling.
All-purpose flour: ¼ cup, to help thicken the cheesecake filling.
Pineapple juice: ½ cup, for tropical flavor in one half of the cheesecake filling.
Orange juice: ½ cup, for citrus flavor in the other half of the filling, plus orange food coloring for a vibrant hue.
Whipped cream: For garnish, to add a light, airy topping.
Fresh pineapple and orange slices: For garnish, to complement the flavors in the cheesecake.
Fresh mint leaves: For garnish, adding a touch of green to the presentation.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
Step 2:: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then mix in the eggs one at a time, blending after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and flour until well combined.
Step 3:: Divide the cream cheese mixture into two bowls. Add the pineapple juice to one bowl and orange juice (with a few drops of orange food coloring) to the other. Stir until both mixtures are well blended.
Step 4:: Pour the pineapple cream cheese mixture into the prepared crust. Follow with the orange cream cheese mixture, then use a knife to swirl the two mixtures together for a marbled effect.
Step 5:: Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
Step 6:: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream, fresh pineapple slices, orange slices, and mint leaves for a fresh and decorative touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This cheesecake is best served chilled.
For an added tropical touch, serve with a drizzle of pineapple or orange sauce.

Helpful Notes

Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling. Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy texture.
If you don't have orange food coloring, the natural color of the orange juice will still provide a light swirl.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

For a more intense flavor, add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the orange filling for a burst of citrus flavor.

A Tropical Delight

With its bright, tropical flavors and creamy texture, this Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert. The pineapple and orange juices combine beautifully, creating a refreshing cheesecake with a visually stunning swirl. It’s perfect for warm-weather celebrations or any time you want to bring a bit of sunshine to your table.

Perfect for Special Occasions

This cheesecake is ideal for summer parties, family gatherings, or even a Southern-inspired dinner. Its unique combination of flavors, along with its stunning presentation, makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

FAQs

Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use bottled pineapple and orange juice, but for the best flavor, fresh juice is recommended.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, this cheesecake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Summary

Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is a creamy and tropical dessert that combines the flavors of fresh pineapple and orange in a beautiful, marbled design. This cheesecake is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or when you want to add a little sunshine to your dessert table. Topped with whipped cream, fresh fruit slices, and mint, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.