Description
Pineapple Dream Dessert is a tropical-inspired, no-bake creamy treat featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese pineapple filling, and a light whipped topping. This refreshing dessert is chilled to perfection, making it an ideal make-ahead option for warm weather or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly mixed.
- Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, creating an even layer to serve as the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Remove and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Pineapple and Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and thawed whipped topping, mixing until fully combined without deflating the whipped topping.
- Assemble Dessert: Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust in the baking dish.
- Add Optional Topping: Sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the top if desired to add texture and flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set firmly.
- Serve: Slice into portions and serve chilled for a refreshing and creamy dessert experience.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the dessert from becoming too watery.
- For a fluffier texture, fold the whipped topping gently to maintain its airiness.
- Swapping sweetened shredded coconut for unsweetened can reduce sweetness.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day ahead for convenience.
