Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake Creamy and Easy Dessert

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Stuffani Borjat

October 15, 2025

Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake slice – best summer citrus dessert recipe and homemade holiday cheesecake idea.

Is there anything better than a cool, creamy slice of Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake on a warm evening? I learned to love desserts like this from my mom the woman who could turn exhaustion into flavor. She’d come home from long hospital shifts, peel off her scrubs, and start whisking like it was therapy.

I’d stand beside her, small and wide-eyed, learning that sweetness could restore more than energy. That’s where my tropical cheesecake recipe began a mix of care, citrus, and comfort, perfect for easy holiday cheesecake ideas and best summer dessert recipes alike.

Refreshing Southern Citrus Bliss, Slice After Slice

  • It’s my kitchen calm after the rush a Southern cheesecake recipe that tastes like sunshine cooled down.
  • Bright zest on my fingers, a swirl of cream and fruit that smells like home and summer at once.

The Ingredients Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake ingredients – easy holiday dessert recipe setup with tropical citrus and creamy cheesecake base.
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • Orange food coloring (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for garnish
  • Fresh pineapple slices
  • Orange slices
  • Fresh mint leaves

Stuffani’s Comfort
My mother taught me from a young age to see life as easy and that nothing is difficult in it. The first step is the most important. This recipe is very easy, only simple ingredients are available in your kitchen.

Instructions Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

Step 1: Build the base
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a springform pan and bake 10 minutes at 325°F.

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake crust base – easy holiday dessert recipe step for buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for tropical cheesecake.

Stuffani’s Tip
Crusts set the mood firm, buttery, simple. Like my mom used to say, “Start strong, finish tender.” If you love classic crusts, try the style in Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups it’s where I learned the art of texture.

Step 2: Cream the filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and eggs one by one, blending well.

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake filling – creamy tropical dessert recipe step with smooth cream cheese and vanilla mixture for best holiday cheesecake.

Stuffani’s Advice
Patience makes it creamy. Don’t rush the mix; let it breathe between each egg. That’s how every creamy baked cheesecake keeps its soul steady and smooth.

Step 3: Blend the colors of comfort
Divide batter into two bowls. Stir pineapple juice into one, orange juice and food coloring into the other. Swirl together gently.

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake swirl – creamy tropical dessert recipe step blending pineapple and orange cheesecake batter for the best holiday dessert.

Stuffani’s Whisper
It’s the swirl that makes me smile the dance of citrus that reminds me of summers I thought would never end. For more fruit swirl ideas, look at my Best Pineapple Strawberry Swirled Slushies.

Step 4: Bake with patience
Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center just sets. Let cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked open.

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake baking – easy holiday dessert recipe step for creamy tropical cheesecake with golden top and perfect texture.

Stuffani’s Note
Good cheesecake doesn’t hurry. Like my mom waiting for her night coffee to cool, you wait until it settles. That’s true Southern stillness. For a different spin, you might also love my Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes.

Step 5: Chill and crown it
Cool completely, then refrigerate at least four hours. Garnish with whipped cream, pineapple, orange slices, and mint leaves.

Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake garnish – refreshing summer dessert recipe topped with whipped cream, pineapple, orange slices, and mint for best holiday cheesecake.

Stuffani’s Whisper
Cold cheesecake, warm memory that’s how I end a long week. Pair this slice with quiet music or a Southern breeze, just like those slow Sunday afternoons when my mom taught me why Southern dessert recipes always taste like love shared.

Variations and Tips for the Perfect Southern Cheesecake

Delicious Variations of Southern Pineapple Orange Cheesecake

  • No-Bake Tropical Cheesecake : Set with gelatin, cool and creamy when the oven feels like too much heat. It reminds me of summers making Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake for Busy Moms sweet relief after long, sticky days.
  • Coconut-Crust Island Version : Swap graham crumbs for toasted coconut, let the edges caramelize to gold. That first bite takes me straight to sunshine, the same comfort as my Best Pineapple Strawberry Swirled Slushies.
  • Citrus Burst Cheesecake : Lemon and lime zest wake the orange, brightening every forkful. It’s the sparkle I add when life feels dull small tangs that keep dessert and spirit fresh.
  • Gluten-Free & Light Cheesecake : Almond flour crust, Greek yogurt, and light cream cheese for guilt-free joy. It’s the balance I reach for between indulgence and care, just like my Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups.

Stuffani’s Note
Most of these versions were happy accidents, born from missing ingredients and late-night creativity the kind my mom called “kitchen grace.”

Tips for a Perfect Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Room-temperature ingredients matter : Cream cheese and eggs blend smoother when warm; cold ones make lumps that never forgive.
  • Bake low and slow at 325°F : That gentle heat coaxes cream into silk, keeping every Southern comfort dessert crack-free and tender.
  • Mind the citrus balance : Pineapple and orange bring brightness but tighten texture flour or cornstarch steadies the crumb.
  • Cool gradually in the oven : A slow rest prevents shock cracks; patience keeps the top as smooth as the first pour.
  • Choose fresh juice over bottled : Fresh fruit gives depth and fragrance; it’s the secret behind every orange pineapple cake cheesecake that actually tastes alive.

Stuffani’s Whisper
All my best tricks came from the ones that cracked first proof that even imperfect cheesecakes can still taste like love and learning.

Troubleshooting And Nutrition & Dietary Notes

Common Cheesecake Problems & Fixes

ProblemCauseFix
Cheesecake crackedRapid temperature changeCool in oven with door ajar for 1 hour
Watery textureOvermixing or underbakingMix on low speed; bake until slightly jiggly center
Soggy crustButter overload or underbakePre-bake crust 10 min at 325°F
Bitter tasteToo much zest or pithUse only outer orange layer for zest
Uneven swirlOver-mixed battersSwirl gently with knife or skewer

Stuffani’s Advice
Every cracked top taught me grace. Every soggy crust reminded me to breathe. That’s the secret to every holiday dessert recipe easy enough to make again.

Nutrition and Substitution Options

SwapResult
Mascarpone for cream cheeseLighter, silkier texture with mild flavor
Coconut milk for dairy-free optionAdds tropical creaminess perfect for pineapple juice cheesecake filling
Almond flour or gluten-free graham crustCrunchy base that pairs beautifully with citrus notes

Stuffani’s Note
This cheesecake lands around 400 calories a slice worth every bit when you taste it chilled. Swap smart, bake slow, and remember: dessert isn’t about rules. It’s about the comfort you pass from one generation to the next.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store and Reheat Southern Pineapple Orange Cheesecake

  • Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 1 month texture stays creamy, flavor stays bright.
  • Reheat / Serve : Thaw overnight, rest 15 minutes before slicing. Smooth cuts, perfect shape, pure Southern calm in every bite.
  • Make-Ahead Tip : Bake a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight. That’s how this chilled cheesecake dessert idea turns rich and balanced by morning light.

Stuffani’s Note
Mom used to say, “The sweetest things need time to breathe.” She was right good cheesecake, like patience, always softens with rest.

What to Serve with Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Perfect Pairings : Fresh pineapple-orange salad for brightness. Toasted coconut or caramel drizzle when I want warmth like sunshine meeting comfort on a plate.
  • Beverage Pairings : Sweet iced tea for porch days. Mimosa or Moscato wine for company both pair like old friends with this pineapple juice cheesecake filling dream.

Stuffani’s Whisper
Some desserts wait quietly to be shared. This one fills the air before the first slice citrus, cream, and the memory of home.

For more recipes follow me on pinterest and Facebook 

FAQs Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

  1. Can I double the recipe for a larger pan?

    You can, but extend the baking time by 15–20 minutes. Check for a jiggly center to know it’s ready.

  2. How long should I chill it before serving?

    At least 4 hours, but overnight is best. The flavors settle and deepen the secret to that perfect refreshing citrus dessert recipe.

  3. Can I make this cheesecake without eggs?

    Yes. Use a mix of cream cheese, cornstarch, and a touch of yogurt for structure. The texture stays smooth and creamy.

  4. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

    Bake at 325°F and let it cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open. Cheesecake hates quick temperature changes.

Conclusion Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake

  • Every cheesecake I bake feels like a quiet thank-you to my mom proof that sweetness can come from tired hands.
  • This Southern pineapple orange cheesecake isn’t just dessert; it’s rest in a slice.
  • Let it cool, let it breathe, and let it remind you that patience makes flavor.
  • The best recipes don’t just fill the table they teach us how to slow down and savor what lasts.
Print
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Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake slice – best summer citrus dessert recipe and homemade holiday cheesecake idea.

Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake Creamy and Easy Dessert

  • Author: Stuffani Borjat
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
  • Yield: 1 cheesecake (12 servings)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bright, creamy, and kissed with tropical citrus this Southern Pineapple Orange Cheesecake blends sweet pineapple, zesty orange, and buttery crust into one refreshing dessert perfect for holidays or hot summer days.


Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup melted butter

2 tablespoons sugar

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1 cup sour cream

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup pineapple juice

½ cup orange juice

Orange food coloring (optional)

Whipped cream, for garnish

Fresh pineapple slices

Orange slices

Fresh mint leaves


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.

2. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, mixing after each.

3. Stir in sour cream and flour until combined.

4. Divide batter into two bowls—add pineapple juice to one, orange juice and food coloring to the other.

5. Pour pineapple mixture into crust, then orange mixture. Swirl gently for a marbled effect.

6. Bake 50–60 minutes until center is just set. Turn oven off; cool cheesecake inside with door cracked open for 1 hour.

7. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

8. Garnish with whipped cream, pineapple, orange slices, and mint leaves before serving.


Notes

Chill overnight for best texture.

Use fresh juices for the brightest flavor.

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.

Pairs beautifully with sweet iced tea or mimosa.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Refreshing Southern Orange Pineapple Cheesecake, tropical cheesecake, summer dessert recipes, holiday dessert ideas, creamy citrus cheesecake, Southern comfort dessert, pineapple orange swirl cheesecake

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