Refreshing Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake

This Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of tangy citrus and creamy cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling swirled with sweet pineapple and vibrant orange flavors, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Each bite is a burst of tropical sunshine, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or just a special treat for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and orange.
• Creamy, smooth texture with a crunchy graham cracker crust.
• Easy to customize with different fruit or swirl patterns.
• A show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Great for holidays, potlucks, or summer picnics.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Butter (melted)
• Cream cheese
• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Pineapple preserves
• Orange zest
• Orange juice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. Divide the cheesecake batter into two portions. To one portion, add pineapple preserves. To the other, mix in orange zest and juice.
5. Pour half of the pineapple batter onto the crust, followed by half of the orange batter. Repeat, layering the remaining batters. Use a knife to swirl the layers gently for a marbled effect.
6. Bake in a water bath at 325°F for 60–70 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked open for 1 hour.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cooling/Chilling Time: 5 hours

Variations

• Berry Swirl: Replace the pineapple and orange with raspberry or strawberry preserves for a tangy twist.
• Chocolate Citrus: Add a swirl of melted chocolate with the orange batter for a decadent combination.
• Tropical Blend: Incorporate mango puree into the pineapple batter for an extra tropical flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Use a water bath while baking, and avoid overmixing the batter to prevent incorporating too much air.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to swirl the batters?

Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers, being careful not to overmix.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of preserves?

Yes, you can puree fresh pineapple and orange segments, but make sure to cook them down to reduce excess moisture.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set, but the center should have a slight jiggle when shaken gently.

What’s the purpose of a water bath?

A water bath helps regulate temperature, preventing the cheesecake from cracking or overcooking.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, try using an Oreo crust or a vanilla wafer crust for a different flavor profile.

Can I substitute sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in the batter.

How should I serve this cheesecake?

Serve it chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit garnish.

Can I add more citrus flavor?

For extra citrus punch, add a teaspoon of orange extract or a splash of lemon juice to the batter.

Conclusion

This Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is a luscious and visually stunning dessert perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you’ll have a show-stopping cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Try it today and savor the tropical delight!

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