This Pineapple Dream is a fruity and creamy treat that will brighten your day! With layers of sweet pineapple, fluffy whipped cream, and crunchy nuts, it’s simply irresistible.
I love making this dessert for family gatherings—it’s quick and disappears fast! Plus, it’s like a little slice of sunshine on a plate. Who wouldn’t want that? ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These form the tasty crust. If you can’t find them, consider using digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the crust. You can replace it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, which also gives a subtle flavor twist.
Crushed pineapple: Opt for canned pineapple for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh pineapple, finely chopped and drained, can add a great texture. Just be sure it’s well-drained to avoid a soggy filling!
Cream cheese: For a healthier twist, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter filling. I find that Greek yogurt adds a nice tang!
Whipped topping: Using Cool Whip is convenient, but you can also whip your own heavy cream. Just beat it until soft peaks form for a fresh taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Crust is Nice and Crunchy?
The crust should be a delightful, crunchy foundation for your dessert. To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated for a cohesive crust.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to really pack it down.
- Bake until it’s lightly golden, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial to give it that crisp texture you want!
- Let it cool completely before adding the filling so it doesn’t get mushy.
How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- ½ cup crushed graham crackers for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a little time mixing and baking, but the waiting is worth it for the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Use a fork or your hands to ensure the crumbs are nicely coated. Next, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form your crust. Bake it for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling:
While the crust is cooling, grab another bowl and blend the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mix is nice and smooth. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and 1 cup of whipped topping until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture will create a delicious filling, so spread it evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust in the baking dish.
3. Add the Topping and Chill:
Now, it’s time for the finishing touch! Spread another cup of whipped topping over the pineapple layer to create a lovely top layer for your dessert. If you’d like, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers over the whipped topping for an extra crunch. Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This will help all the delicious flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
4. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the dessert out of the fridge. Slice it into squares and enjoy your refreshing and delightful Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert! It’s a perfect treat for any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pineapple, just make sure to chop it finely and strain the juice well, as you’ll want to keep the filling from becoming too watery. About 1 ½ cups of fresh pineapple should do the trick.
How Can I Make a Gluten-Free Version of This Dessert?
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. You can find these in most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free cookies that crush nicely!
Can I Make This Dessert in Advance?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. The flavors will actually improve after sitting for a while!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep the dessert covered to maintain its freshness. It’s just as delightful on day two or three!
