Mini Pineapple Coconut Cheesecakes (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 180 g graham cracker crumbs
02 - 50 g granulated sugar
03 - 115 g unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 450 g cream cheese, softened
05 - 100 g granulated sugar
06 - 5 ml vanilla extract
07 - 240 ml sweetened condensed coconut milk
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - Optional: 10-15 ml lemon juice

→ Topping

10 - 225 g fresh pineapple chunks
11 - 60 ml caramel sauce
12 - 30 g toasted coconut flakes
13 - Graham cracker crumbs for garnish

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Set the oven to 163°C and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well moistened. Press approximately 15 ml of the mixture firmly into the base of each liner. Bake for 5 minutes, then cool.
03 - Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. Gradually incorporate the sweetened condensed coconut milk. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until blended. Optionally fold in lemon juice.
04 - Divide the filling evenly among the crust-lined cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until centers are set but slightly jiggly.
05 - Allow cheesecakes to cool in pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
06 - Combine drained pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and glossy. Cool completely.
07 - Top each chilled cheesecake with pineapple topping, drizzle caramel sauce, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes and graham cracker crumbs. Remove liners carefully before serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps for a silky texture.
02 - Do not overmix eggs to prevent cracks during baking.
03 - Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid watery filling.
04 - Cheesecakes are done when edges are set and centers have a slight wobble.