How to Make Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake

Bring a taste of the tropics to your dessert table with this Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake. This light and refreshing treat combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple, the citrusy burst of orange, and the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all in a single guilt-free dessert. With fewer points and all the flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup low-fat graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons light butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon sugar substitute (Stevia, Monk Fruit, or your choice)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup sugar substitute
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

For the Swirl:

• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (from the drained pineapple)
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar-free orange marmalade

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan lightly with cooking spray.
2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, sugar substitute, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Blend until creamy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
3. Fold in the crushed pineapple, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing gently to combine.

Create the Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix the pineapple juice, orange juice, and orange marmalade until smooth.
2. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Drizzle the swirl mixture over the top. Use a skewer or knife to create a marble effect by swirling it through the batter.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~170
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW Points: ~5-6 (varies based on ingredients used)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tropical Flavors: Pineapple and orange provide a bright, refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
2. Lightened Up: With fat-free cream cheese and Greek yogurt, it’s a lighter take on a traditional Southern dessert.
3. Swirl Design: The orange-pineapple swirl adds a fun and elegant presentation.
4. Versatile: This cheesecake is perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or even as a midweek treat.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Juices: Freshly squeezed orange juice and pineapple juice enhance the natural flavors of the dessert.
• Drain the Pineapple Well: Too much liquid from the crushed pineapple can affect the texture of the cheesecake.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the cheesecake to chill ensures it sets properly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Decorate Creatively: Garnish with orange slices, pineapple chunks, or a dollop of fat-free whipped cream for added flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Fruit: Serve slices with fresh pineapple or orange segments for a burst of natural sweetness.
• Light Sauce: Drizzle with a sugar-free citrus glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• On Its Own: Enjoy this cheesecake as a standalone dessert with a refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling water.

The Southern Pineapple Orange Swirl Cheesecake is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. With its beautiful marbled design and balanced tropical flavors, it’s sure to impress both Weight Watchers members and non-members alike. Satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with this refreshing, guilt-free dessert