Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake 🍍🍊

Ingredients:
For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup melted butter

2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup pineapple juice

1/2 cup orange juice

Orange food coloring (optional)

For Garnish:

Whipped cream

Fresh pineapple slices

Orange slices

Fresh mint leaves

Directions:

1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add vanilla extract and beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.

Stir in the sour cream and flour until combined.

3️⃣ Divide and Flavor:

Divide the cheesecake batter evenly into two bowls.

Mix pineapple juice into one bowl.

In the other bowl, add orange juice and a few drops of orange food coloring (if using). Mix until smooth.

4️⃣ Create the Swirl:

Pour the pineapple-flavored batter into the cooled crust.

Carefully pour the orange-flavored batter on top.

Use a knife to gently swirl the two layers together to create a marbled effect.

5️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Turn off the oven, leaving the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

6️⃣ Garnish and Serve:

Before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh pineapple slices, orange slices, and mint leaves.

Enjoy this tropical twist on classic cheesecake! 🍍🍊