Grandma’s Pineapple Dream is a fun and fruity dessert that will make your taste buds dance! With sweet pineapple, creamy layers, and a crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Every time I make this, I can hear Grandma saying, “Don’t forget the whipped cream!” It’s so easy, and the kids just love it. Perfect for hot days when you need something refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base of your dessert’s crust. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter: The melted butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil can work well as a substitute without altering the taste much.
Cream Cheese: This creates that creamy goodness in the filling. If you’re vegan, try using a plant-based cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth for a similar texture.
Whipped Topping: This adds lightness. Instead of store-bought, you could whip heavy cream with some sugar if you’re avoiding preservatives, or a coconut whipped topping for a dairy-free alternative.
Canned Crushed Pineapple: Fresh pineapple can be used if you want a more natural option. Just make sure to finely chop it and drain well!
How Do You Make Sure Your Cream Cheese Mixture is Smooth?
A common challenge when making this dessert is ensuring your cream cheese is perfectly smooth. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it blend more easily without lumps.
- Start by beating the cream cheese alone for a minute before adding powdered sugar. This helps it loosen up.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing, so it fully incorporates.
Following these steps will give you a lovely creamy filling that’s free of any lumps! Enjoy making your Pineapple Dream Dessert with these tips in mind.
How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers (for sprinkling)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (to mix with the crushed graham crackers)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert requires about 30 minutes for preparation and then needs at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge. For the best flavor and texture, try to chill it overnight. It’s a simple and tasty treat that will take you back to Grandma’s cozy kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix these ingredients together until everything is well combined and looks like wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a nice crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, take the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat these together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Next, gently fold in the whipped topping until it’s all blended together beautifully. Now, add the drained crushed pineapple and carefully fold it in to combine everything nicely.
3. Assemble and Top It Off:
Spread the creamy pineapple filling evenly over the cooled crust in the baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until every crumb is coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the pineapple filling, creating a crunchy layer. Now, it’s time to chill: cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight!
4. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, slice pieces of this delicious Pineapple Dream Dessert and enjoy it chilled. It’s a delightful reminder of Grandma’s love and cooking magic—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers for the Crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute graham crackers with cookie crumbs like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a unique flavor twist. Just be aware that the texture and taste may vary slightly, so feel free to experiment!
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! If cream cheese isn’t available, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing, and the consistency will still be creamy and delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The dessert stays fresh, but it may become softer as it sits, so be sure to serve chilled to enjoy the layers best!
Can This Dessert Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust and the topping. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of Grandma’s Pineapple Dream without worry!
