Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.

2. Prepare the Pineapple Swirl:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the pineapple and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Prepare the Orange Swirl:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the orange juice and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until smooth.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake:

1. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
2. Spoon half of the pineapple and orange swirl mixtures over the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixtures into the filling.
3. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the swirls.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining pineapple and orange swirls, swirling them into the top layer of cheesecake filling.

6. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
3. After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

7. Serve:

1. Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the springform pan. Carefully remove the sides of the pan.
2. Slice and serve the cheesecake chilled. Garnish with fresh pineapple, orange slices, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake—a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table!