Refreshing Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1 tbsp orange zest

• Orange and yellow food coloring (optional)

• Pineapple slices, for garnish

• Orange slices, for garnish

• Whipped cream, for garnish

• Mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 2: Make the Filling

3. Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

5. Stir in crushed pineapple, orange juice, and orange zest until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Create the Swirl

6. Divide the batter into two bowls. Add orange food coloring to one bowl and yellow food coloring to the other (optional).

7. Pour alternating scoops of each batter into the crust and use a knife to swirl them together gently for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set.

9. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen.

10. Cool completely before removing the rim of the pan.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

11. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

12. Garnish with pineapple slices, orange slices, whipped cream, and fresh mint leaves before serving.