Description
Pineapple Dream Dessert is a refreshing, no-bake layered treat featuring a crisp graham cracker crust topped with a creamy pineapple and whipped topping mixture, finished with an optional sprinkle of sweetened shredded coconut. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a light, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, creating an even layer that will serve as the base for your dessert.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until it turns a golden brown. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Prepare Filling Base: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Fold in Whipped Topping and Pineapple: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping and the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture, mixing just until combined to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble Dessert: Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust in the baking dish.
- Add Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the top of the dessert for added flavor and texture.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and for the filling to set firmly.
- Serve: Once chilled, slice the dessert into 9 servings and serve cold for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the dessert from becoming too watery.
- The dessert is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If cream cheese is not softened, the filling will be lumpy; leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- For a nuttier crust, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or finely chopped nuts to the graham cracker mixture.
- Can be made vegan by substituting cream cheese and whipped topping with plant-based alternatives.
