INSTRUCTIONS:
Preparing the Crust
- Prepare the King’s Hawaiian Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Cut the King’s Hawaiian rolls into cubes and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the rolls are finely ground.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground rolls with melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Form the Crust:
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, forming an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to compact the crumbs firmly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add the Eggs and Flavorings:
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the Filling:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Baking the Cheesecake
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour to cool gradually.
- Cool Completely:
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Adding the Topping
- Prepare the Topping:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the top.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple for an extra tropical touch.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Carefully remove the springform pan ring, slice the cheesecake, and serve chilled.