Pina Colada Cheesecake

Pina Colada Cheesecake Recipe from Puerto Rico

Region / culture: Puerto Rico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Pina Colada Cheesecake is a tropical twist on the classic dessert, combining the flavors of coconut, pineapple, and rum in a creamy and decadent cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want to indulge in a delicious and refreshing treat.

History

The Pina Colada Cheesecake is a modern twist on the traditional Pina Colada cocktail, which originated in Puerto Rico in the 1950s. The cocktail is made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, and is often garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry. The flavors of the Pina Colada cocktail inspired the creation of this cheesecake recipe, which combines the tropical flavors of coconut and pineapple with the rich and creamy texture of a classic cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust

0.33 cup melted butter
1.75 cup crushed Social tea biscuits or graham wafers

Filling

12 oz (340 g) cream cheese
0.67 cup sour cream
0.67 cup plain yogurt
2 large eggs
0.33 cup white sugar
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp creamed coconut
0.33 cup white rum
1 (20 oz (567 g)) can drained pineapple rings
6 maraschino cherries, coarsely chopped

Topping

2 large egg whites, only
0.25 cup white sugar
3 tbsp shredded coconut
decorate with some maraschino cherries, halves if desired

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Crust

Melt the butter in a saucepot and remove from heat.
Add the crumbs and stir well.
Press the mixture onto the bottom of the prepared pan.
Set it aside.

Filling

Beat the cream cheese until it becomes soft.
Add the sour cream, yogurt, and eggs, and beat until smooth.
Beat in the sugar and flour.
Stir in the creamed coconut and rum.
Cut three of the pineapple rings into evenly sized pieces.
Stir the pineapple into the cheese mixture.
Stir in the 6 chopped cherries and combine well.
Spoon the filling into the prepared crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until set.

Topping

Beat the egg whites with the sugar until soft peaks form.
Fold in the shredded coconut.
Mound the mixture over the cheesecake.
Cut the remaining pineapple rings into wedges.
Dot the cheesecake with the pineapple wedges and cherries on top of the meringue.
Place it back into the oven for 8 to 12 minutes, until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and use rum extract or coconut extract for flavor.
Add crushed pineapple to the filling for extra pineapple flavor and texture.
Use a graham cracker crust instead of a Social biscuit crust for a classic cheesecake base.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough cheesecake.

- To prevent cracks from forming on the surface of the cheesecake, bake it in a water bath or place a pan of water on the rack below the cheesecake in the oven.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the topping to prevent it from melting or becoming too runny.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pina Colada Cheesecake chilled, garnished with additional pineapple wedges and maraschino cherries. Pair with a tropical cocktail or a scoop of coconut ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the cream cheese until smooth and creamy is essential for a silky cheesecake filling.

- Folding in the egg whites gently for the topping will create a light and fluffy meringue.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker and tangier filling.

- Substitute crushed gingersnap cookies for the crust for a spiced twist on the recipe.

- Replace the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries or strawberries for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The Pina Colada Cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the topping just before serving for the best presentation.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the Pina Colada Cheesecake with toasted coconut flakes, edible flowers, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant and eye-catching dessert presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Pina Colada Cheesecake with a glass of sparkling wine, a tropical fruit salad, or a scoop of coconut sorbet for a delicious and refreshing dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Pina Colada Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 23g

Fats

- Total Fat: 21g

- Saturated Fat: 12g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 4%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, yogurt, eggs)

- Contains wheat (all-purpose flour)

- Contains coconut

Summary

This Pina Colada Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fat and sugar, but also provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

The Pina Colada Cheesecake is a tropical and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of coconut, pineapple, and rum in a creamy and decadent cheesecake. With a buttery crust, creamy filling, and fluffy meringue topping, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy this delicious treat at your next gathering or special occasion for a taste of the tropics in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah at her beach house. As we sat on the porch, sipping on homemade pina coladas, she suddenly exclaimed, "I have the most delicious dessert to share with you!"

Intrigued, I followed her into the kitchen where she pulled out a worn recipe card from a box filled with old family recipes. "This," she said with a smile, "is my grandmother's famous Pina Colada Cheesecake recipe."

As she read off the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered in anticipation. The combination of creamy cheesecake and tropical flavors sounded like a match made in dessert heaven. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I have acquired many recipes from various places and people, but this one quickly became a favorite. I was determined to perfect it and make it a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties.

I started by gathering all the necessary ingredients: cream cheese, sugar, eggs, crushed pineapple, coconut milk, rum, and graham cracker crumbs for the crust. As I mixed and measured, I couldn't help but think back to that day at Sarah's beach house and the excitement I felt at discovering this new recipe.

The cheesecake baked to perfection in the oven, filling the kitchen with the sweet aroma of pineapple and coconut. Once it had cooled, I topped it with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, just like Sarah's grandmother used to do.

As I took my first bite, I knew I had found a new favorite dessert. The creamy texture of the cheesecake combined with the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut was a match made in dessert heaven. Each bite was a burst of flavor that transported me back to that sunny day at the beach.

Since then, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, and it has become a requested dessert for special occasions. I have made a few tweaks here and there, adding a splash of rum or experimenting with different toppings, but the core of the recipe remains the same.

As I pass on this recipe to future generations, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The simple act of baking a cheesecake can transport us to another time and place, evoking emotions and connections that transcend generations.

So, the next time you're craving a taste of the tropics, why not try your hand at making a Pina Colada Cheesecake? Who knows, it may just become a new family favorite, passed down from generation to generation.