Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a tasty crust. If you can’t find graham crackers, use vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits as a substitute. Both will add a slightly different flavor but will still work great!

Unsalted Butter: This helps bind the crust. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter. They’ll keep the texture while adding a unique taste.

Cream Cheese: Soften it for easy blending. If you prefer a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese. It has similar texture and taste but contains less fat. Cream cheese alternatives, like cashew cream, are good for a vegan take.

Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip, but you can substitute any non-dairy whipped topping or make your own using heavy cream. Homemade whipped cream adds a nice touch!

Crushed Pineapple: It’s best to drain the pineapple well, or your filling could be too wet. If pineapple isn’t your thing, opt for other fruits like mango or peaches. Just make sure to drain them too!

How Do I Make the Perfect Crust?

The crust is a key part of this dessert and sets the foundation for everything else. Here’s how to ensure it’s just right:

• Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until you have a sandy texture. It should hold together when squeezed.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish to avoid a crumbly crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup for a flat surface.
• Baking is key! Aim for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling, so it stays crunchy!

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
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For The Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained

For The Topping:

• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• ½ cup crushed graham crackers (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes for preparation and then needs at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator, or ideally, overnight. So, it’s perfect for making ahead of time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare 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 until everything is well combined. Now, take this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish to form a nice crust. Bake this in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool completely.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until everything is nicely blended together. Now, gently fold in the whipped topping and the drained crushed pineapple until they are well-distributed through the mixture.

3. Assemble the Dessert:

Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled crust. Then, take another cup of whipped topping and spread it smoothly over the cream cheese layer. For that final touch, sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top of the whipped topping.

4. Chill and Serve:

Cover the dessert and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but it’s even better if you can let it sit overnight. When you are ready to serve, just slice it up and enjoy your Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert!

Can I Use Different Types of Crust for This Dessert?

Absolutely! If you’d like to switch things up, you can use a cookie crust made from vanilla wafers or even shortbread cookies. Just crush them and follow the same mixing and baking instructions for the crust!

Can I Substitute Fresh Pineapple for Canned Pineapple?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used! Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice before adding it to the filling. This will ensure that your dessert doesn’t become too watery.

How Do I Store Leftover Pineapple Dream Dessert?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge!

Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?

Definitely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better when the flavors have had time to meld!