Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

03 - 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Topping

07 - 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
08 - 1/4 cup caramel sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly coated. Divide the mixture among the muffin cups and press firmly with the back of a spoon or small glass to form a flat base.
03 - Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until fully combined.
04 - Spoon the cheesecake batter into the prepared crusts, filling each about three-quarters full. Place a few pineapple chunks on top of each cheesecake, pressing them gently into the filling.
05 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly. Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecakes to set.
06 - Before serving, drizzle each mini cheesecake with caramel sauce for added sweetness and flair. Enjoy chilled!

# Notes:

01 - Ensure all ingredients—cream cheese, eggs—are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
02 - Thoroughly drain and pat dry pineapple chunks to prevent soggy cheesecakes.
03 - To avoid cracks, place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack while baking to create steam.