Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  For the Pineapple Layer:
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (optional)

For the Topping (optional):

• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
• Pineapple chunks for garnish

Instructions:

1. 1. Crust:
   Mix graham crumbs, sugar, melted butter. Press into springform pan. Bake 8-10 mins at 325°F (160°C). Cool.

   2. Pineapple Layer:
   Simmer pineapple, sugar, cornstarch in saucepan 5-7 mins until thick. Cool.

   3. Filling:
   Beat cream cheese + sugar in stand mixer until smooth. Add eggs (one at a time), vanilla, sour cream. Fold in extra pineapple.

   4. Assemble:

   • Layer 1: ½ cheesecake batter over crust

   • Layer 2: Spread cooled pineapple

   • Layer 3: Top with remaining batter

   5. Bake:
   Water bath method: Wrap pan in foil; place in roasting pan with 1″ hot water. Bake 55-65 mins. Cool in oven 1 hr (door ajar).

   6. Finish:
   Chill 4+ hours. Top with whipped cream, toasted coconut, pineapple chunks.