Mini Pineapple Condensed Coconut Milk Cheesecakes are a tropical twist on classic cheesecake, featuring a creamy coconut-infused filling, a sweet pineapple topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust. These adorable individual desserts are perfect for parties, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a taste of paradise.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut make these cheesecakes refreshing and unique.
- Individual servings make them easy to serve and enjoy.
- Simple to make with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for summer parties, luaus, or as a light dessert.
- Can be made ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sweetened condensed coconut milk
- Vanilla extract
- Lemon juice
- Eggs
For the Pineapple Topping
- Crushed pineapple, drained
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Water
Optional Garnish
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Whipped cream
Directions
Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner and press down firmly to form an even crust. Bake for 5 minutes and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sweetened condensed coconut milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until just combined.
- Spoon the filling over the crusts, filling each liner about three-quarters full.
Bake
- Bake the cheesecakes for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Make the Pineapple Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine drained crushed pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Let the topping cool completely before spooning it over the chilled cheesecakes.
Serve
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for garnish, if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Variations
- Mango Twist: Swap crushed pineapple for mango puree or chunks for a tropical variation.
- No-Bake Option: Use a no-bake cheesecake recipe and top with pineapple compote.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of traditional cream cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual cheesecakes without the topping for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and add the topping before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, canned crushed pineapple works perfectly. Just make sure to drain it well.
2. What is sweetened condensed coconut milk?
It’s a dairy-free version of condensed milk made from coconut milk and sugar. Regular condensed milk can be substituted if needed.
3. Can I make these cheesecakes in advance?
Yes, they can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
4. Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! Try a coconut or almond flour crust for a different texture and flavor.
5. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter and bake the cheesecakes at a low temperature. The slight jiggle in the center ensures they stay creamy.
6. Can I skip the pineapple topping?
Yes, you can top these cheesecakes with fresh fruit, a drizzle of caramel, or simply serve them plain.
7. How do I toast coconut flakes?
Spread coconut flakes on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
8. Can I make a full-size cheesecake with this recipe?
Yes, use a 9-inch springform pan and adjust the baking time to 50-60 minutes.
9. How do I ensure the crust stays firm?
Pack the crust tightly into the liners using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass.
10. Are these cheesecakes kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids will love the tropical flavors and individual portions.
Conclusion
Mini Pineapple Condensed Coconut Milk Cheesecakes are a tropical delight that’s as easy to make as they are to eat. With their creamy coconut filling, sweet pineapple topping, and buttery crust, they’re a perfect treat for any occasion. Whip up a batch today and bring a taste of the tropics to your table!
PrintMini Pineapple Condensed Coconut Milk Cheesecakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Mini Pineapple Condensed Coconut Milk Cheesecakes are tropical, creamy, and indulgent. The sweet tang of pineapple pairs beautifully with the rich coconut milk, creating a delightful dessert perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed coconut milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- Shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- Make the Crust:
- In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup and press down firmly to form the crust. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the condensed coconut milk, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently.
- Fill the Cups:
- Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the centers are just set (they may still jiggle slightly). Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
- Add the Toppings:
- Before serving, top each cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream, a small spoonful of crushed pineapple, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut, if desired.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the cheesecakes from the muffin tin and serve chilled.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Sweetened condensed coconut milk can be found in most specialty or health food stores. Regular sweetened condensed milk can be substituted if coconut flavor is not required.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.