Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Graham Cracker Crumbs: These provide a sweet and crunchy crust. If you can’t find them, try vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits as substitutes to keep a similar flavor.

Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works great here!

Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture to the filling. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative, or for a vegan option, you can use cashew cream or a store-bought vegan cream cheese.

Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip for its lightness. For homemade options, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla. For a dairy-free version, use coconut whipped cream.

Crushed Pineapple: Fresh pineapple, if available, adds a vibrant flavor. Alternatively, canned peach or mango can be a fun twist. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid!

How Do You Make the Perfect Crust?

Creating the crust is a crucial step in this recipe, as it sets the stage for the whole dessert. To achieve the best crust, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it’s all evenly moistened. It should resemble wet sand.

• Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish; this ensures it holds together well.
• Bake it for 10 minutes to give it some structure, then cool completely before adding the filling. This helps to prevent a soggy crust!

How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

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

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers or 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (for added texture)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of baking time, plus at least 4 hours to chill. If you can, letting it chill overnight gives the best results! So, set aside some time to create this refreshing treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get things nice and warm for the crust.

2. Prepare the Crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely.

3. Make the Filling:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well until blended.

4. Incorporate Pineapple:

Now, gently fold the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture. Then, fold in the whipped topping until everything is well combined and looks fluffy and delicious.

5. Assemble the Dessert:

Pour the creamy pineapple filling over the cooled crust. Using a spatula, spread it out evenly so every bite will have that amazing flavor.

6. Add the Topping:

Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers over the top of the filling. This adds a nice crunchy texture that complements the creamy layers.

7. Chill:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours. For the best taste, let it set overnight. This way, all those yummy flavors can meld together!

8. Serve:

When you’re ready to enjoy, cut the dessert into squares and serve chilled. Get ready for the refreshing layers of creamy pineapple goodness!

Can I Use Different Cookies for the Crust?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or texture, you can substitute the graham crackers with vanilla wafers, Oreos, or even shortbread cookies. Just crush them and combine with melted butter and sugar as directed.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover them well to keep the dessert fresh and prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge!

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can! If you prefer fresh pineapple, use about 2 cups of finely chopped fresh pineapple, and be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dessert. This will add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish!

What if I Can’t Find Whipped Topping?

No worries! You can make your own whipped cream by whipping 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This homemade version will work just as well and add a delightful freshness to your dessert!