This refreshing Pineapple Dream dessert is a lovely mix of sweet pineapple, creamy filling, and a hint of coconut. It’s like a tropical vacation in a dish!
My grandma always made this for family gatherings, and it vanished faster than you can say “pineapple.” I love serving it chilled—it’s the perfect summer treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These provide the base for your crust. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut gives a nice texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or substitute with crushed nuts for a different crunch.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter instead.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat for creaminess, but light cream cheese works if you want a lighter version. Dairy-free cream cheese can also be used for a vegan twist.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is convenient, but you can make your own whipped cream with heavy cream, or use a dairy-free whipped topping if needed.
How Do You Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust Perfectly?
The crust is vital for your Pineapple Dream! It should be sturdy and flavorful. Here’s how to ensure it’s just right:
- Combine crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until all crumbs are moist.
- Press this mixture firmly into your baking dish. This helps it hold together when cut.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes at 350°F until it’s lightly golden. This enhances the flavor and keeps the crust crispy.
- Let it cool completely before adding the filling to avoid a soggy crust.
How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 8 whole crackers)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator (or overnight, if you can wait!). Get ready for a sweet and creamy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the shredded coconut and melted butter. Stir it well until all the crumbs are moistened. Next, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create your crust. Bake this in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, take the softened cream cheese and the powdered sugar. Use a mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Now it’s time to add the drained crushed pineapple. Gently stir this in, and then fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Assemble and Chill:
Spread the creamy pineapple mixture evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust. If you like, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch! Cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Chill this treat for at least 4 hours, or if you can, overnight for the best flavor and texture.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, cut the dessert into squares and serve it straight from the fridge. Enjoy every delightful bite of Grandma’s Pineapple Dream!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
What Can I Use Instead of Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until soft peaks form and use that instead of whipped topping. It gives a fresher taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out!
Can I Add Additional Fruits?
Absolutely! You can fold in some diced fresh strawberries or bananas into the pineapple mixture for a fruity twist. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness slightly depending on the fruits you choose!
