Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in foil if you plan to do a water bath.
- Combine graham crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture holds when pressed. Press firmly into the bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake crust for 8–10 minutes until set. Remove and cool while you prepare the filling.
Filling
- In a large bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and lump-free. Add sugar and beat until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Stir in vanilla and lemon zest.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently to keep some texture. If you’d like a swirl effect, reserve 1/3 cup pineapple and stir separately.
- Pour filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- (Optional water bath): Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up the side to reduce cracking.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when nudged.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. Before serving, run a thin knife around the edge, release the springform, and add topping/garnish.
No-Bake Version
- Make the crust as above. Press into a 9-inch springform or square pan. Chill in fridge for 30 minutes to firm.
- Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar to medium peaks. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add vanilla and lemon zest.
- Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture gently to keep it airy. Fold in drained pineapple.
- Spread filling over chilled crust, smoothing the top. Chill for at least 4–6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Top with sour cream mix, pineapple tidbits, and toasted coconut if desired.
Notes
For a lighter spin, swap half the cream cheese for mascarpone. If you prefer a no-bake cheesecake, use the heavy cream method and skip eggs.