Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Pineapple Layer:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 7-8 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
• Maraschino cherries (optional)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple Layer:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Pour the melted butter into a 9-inch springform pan.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
• Arrange the pineapple slices over the brown sugar, and place cherries in the center of each slice if using.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the sugar and mix until creamy.
• Mix in the eggs one at a time.
• Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing until well combined.
• Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the pineapple layer.

3. Prepare the Cake Layer:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
• Gently spread the cake batter over the cheesecake layer.

4. Bake:

• Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
• Place the pan in a larger baking dish. Add about an inch of hot water to create a water bath.
• Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Serve:

• Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen.
• Carefully invert the cheesecake onto a serving plate, revealing the caramelized pineapple topping.
• Slice and enjoy!