Pineapple Dream Dessert – Experience the indulgence of Pineapple Dream Dessert, a mouthwatering treat that expertly combines the goodness of crushed pineapple with a heavenly creamy filling. This dessert is not just quick and easy to make. Also guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, at any gathering. With its buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese layer, and pineapple whipped topping this dessert is truly a dream come true for your taste buds.
The first time I prepared Pineapple Dream Dessert I was amazed at how it vanished from the table. The blend of flavors reminiscent of a tropical escape captured the hearts (and appetites!) of my family. Even my husband, who isn’t usually fond of desserts couldn’t resist going for seconds. Seeing the excitement in my child’s eyes after their first bite confirmed that this recipe is truly special and meant to be shared with fellow dessert lovers like you.
What makes this Pineapple Dream Dessert truly special?
What sets Pineapple Dream Dessert apart is its fusion of textures and flavors. The buttery graham cracker crust offers a crunch that beautifully contrasts with the cream cheese layer. Let’s not forget about the star ingredient – the pineapple whipped topping – which adds a burst of refreshing tropical goodness while still being indulgent. This sweet treat is a delight offering an experience, for both your taste buds and your senses. Its beautiful hues and captivating fragrance make it truly irresistible.
What You Need To Make This Pineapple Dream Dessert Recipe?
Graham cracker crumbs: The base of this dessert is made with buttery graham cracker crumbs. You can buy crushed graham cracker crumbs or make your own by processing graham crackers. For an added touch you can crush the graham crackers yourself using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and gently rolling a rolling pin over them.
Cream cheese: For a smooth and creamy cream cheese filling make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the mixture. Softened cream cheese blends perfectly with the ingredients resulting in a velvety texture without any lumps.
Whipped topping: Choose a high-quality frozen whipped topping, like COOL WHIP for the best results. Thaw the whipped topping according to the package instructions before using it. The thawed whipped topping effortlessly combines, with elements creating an airy layer that complements the rich creaminess of the filling.
Pineapple: Proper drainage is important when using canned pineapple to avoid moisture compromising the stability of the layers. After draining the canned pineapple it’s recommended to press down on it using a fine mesh strainer to remove any extra juice. This step is crucial to ensure that your dessert sets properly and maintains its textures.
Butter: Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature, before preparing the filling. This ensures that the ingredients blend consistently and smoothly resulting in a mixture that’s easy to spread over the crust.
Steps To Make Pineapple Dream Dessert:
Step 1: To make the crust start by preheating your oven to 300F.
Step 2: Next, take a microwave bowl and melt 1/2 cup of salted butter in it.
Step 3: Once the butter is melted, add 2 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs to it. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Now firmly press 2 cups of the mixture into the bottom of either an 8×8 inch or a 9×9 inch square baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the crust in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Then let it cool completely.
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Step 6: Moving on to the filling use a stand mixer or an electric mixer to beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and half a cup of room-temperature butter until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Gradually add in two cups of sugar while continuously mixing until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 8: Afterward, stir in a heaping tablespoon of pineapple that has been drained into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 9: Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust in your baking dish.
Step 10: For the topping take another bowl. Combine one container (eight ounces) of COOL WHIP, along with any remaining crushed pineapple that has been drained. Mix everything together until combined and slightly thickened.
Step 11: Using the back of a spoon gently spread this whipped topping mixture, over the layer of cream cheese in your baking dish.
Step 12: To give it that extra touch sprinkle some leftover graham cracker crumb mixture on top. This will not add texture but also enhance its flavor profile.
Make sure to place a layer of wrap over the dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours before you serve it.
Tip:
To add a burst of flavor and make it visually appealing you can set aside a portion of the crushed pineapple before mixing it with the whipped topping. After spreading the whipped topping, over the cream cheese layer carefully arrange a few spoonfuls of the reserved pineapple on top. This will not only carry a splash of color but also provide your Pineapple Dream Dessert a fresh and vibrant look, which is bound to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?
Using fresh pineapple instead of canned may affect the texture and moisture levels but it is recommended to stick with canned crushed pineapple, for optimal results. The controlled moisture in the canned version ensures that the dessert sets perfectly.
Can I make Pineapple Dream Dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, preparing this dessert a day in advance allows the flavors to blend better. Just remember to cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with a different ingredient?
Cream cheese plays a role in providing a creamy texture and flavor to this dessert. While substituting may alter the outcome you could consider using mascarpone cheese as an alternative.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Pineapple Dream Dessert
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
For the filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese 1/2 block, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter 1 stick, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 8 ounce container frozen whipped topping COOL WHIP, thawed
- 20 ounce can crushed pineapple well-drained
Instructions
To prepare the crust:
- Start by melting 1/2 cup of salted butter and mixing it with 2 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs.
- Press down 2 cups of this mixture into either an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust at 300F for 8 to 10 minutes. Then let it cool.
Now let's move on to the creamy filling:
- Beat together 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of room-temperature butter until the mixture becomes smooth.
- Gradually add in 2 cups of sugar. Ensure everything is well mixed.
- Stir in a tablespoon of drained crushed pineapple into this mixture.
- Spread this filling over the crust.
Next, we'll make the pineapple topping:
- Combine a container ( 8 oz.) of whipped topping with the remaining drained crushed pineapple.
- Spread this pineapple topping over the cream cheese layer.
Finishing Touch:
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
- Cover your dish. Refrigerate it for at least four hours before serving.
- Enjoy your Pineapple Dream Dessert!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
