Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

Maria
17 Jan, 2026

Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

Introduction

Creamy, rich, buttery, and bursting with tropical sweetness—this Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake is everything a dessert lover dreams of and more. From the first silky bite to the last crunch of toasted pecans, this Cheesecake delivers pure comfort with a Southern twist. Fun fact: pineapple desserts became wildly popular in Southern kitchens in the mid-1900s because canned pineapple was considered a luxury item for special occasions. That tradition of indulgence lives on in this recipe.

What makes this Cheesecake truly special is how effortlessly it comes together while tasting like something straight from a bakery. It’s family-friendly, perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners, and surprisingly simple to prepare. If you loved our Classic New York Cheesecake, this Southern-inspired version will absolutely steal your heart. Let’s bake something unforgettable together!

What is Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake?

So what exactly is Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake, and why does it sound like a dessert royalty title? Is it Southern? Is it tropical? Is it nutty? The answer is—yes to all! This Cheesecake blends creamy cheesecake filling with sweet crushed pineapple and buttery toasted pecans, all resting on a rich graham cracker crust. Legend has it that Southern cooks added pecans to everything because, well… why not make a good thing better?

Some say the name comes from the South’s love for pecans, while pineapple adds a sunny surprise that keeps everyone guessing. As the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this Cheesecake knows exactly where it’s going. Go on—give it a try and see why it’s so unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

The star of the show is the ultra-creamy Cheesecake filling, perfectly balanced with juicy pineapple and crunchy toasted pecans. Each bite delivers a contrast of textures—smooth, crisp, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Making it at home saves money compared to bakery Cheesecake prices, and you get full control over quality and sweetness. No mystery ingredients here—just simple pantry staples turned into something magical.

The topping is irresistible. A glossy pineapple pecan topping adds sweetness, crunch, and visual appeal that makes this Cheesecake look like it came straight from a Southern bakery. If you enjoyed our Pecan Pie Cheesecake, this recipe is the next must-try. Roll up your sleeves and bake this beauty today—you’ll be so glad you did!

How to Make Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

● Quick Overview

This Cheesecake is surprisingly easy to make and tastes like a showstopper dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and rich pineapple pecan topping, it’s a dessert that feels fancy but doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Total prep and bake time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, plus chilling time for best results.

● Key Ingredients for Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

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For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

For the Pineapple Pecan Topping:

● Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and well-drained crushed pineapple.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the Cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Make the Pineapple Pecan Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple, brown sugar, butter, pineapple juice, and cornstarch. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Fold in toasted pecans and remove from heat. Cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spread the topping evenly over the cooled Cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before slicing and serving.

What to Serve Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake With

This Cheesecake pairs beautifully with:

Whether served after dinner or at a holiday gathering, this Cheesecake shines alongside both simple and elegant accompaniments.

Top Tips for Perfecting Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake

  • Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent a watery Cheesecake.

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.

  • Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.

  • Toast pecans for deeper flavor and crunch.

  • Use a water bath if you want ultra-smooth bakery-style results.

Substitute walnuts if pecans aren’t available, or try coconut flakes for a tropical twist. Even beginners can nail this Cheesecake with these tips!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover Cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.

To thaw, place slices in the refrigerator overnight. Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for maximum creaminess.

This Southern Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake is proof that classic Cheesecake can be reinvented into something unforgettable. If you’re looking for a dessert that impresses without stress, this recipe belongs in your kitchen. Happy baking! 🍍🥧

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