Pineapple Dream Dessert

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Pineapple Dream Dessert

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours minimum (overnight is ideal)
Servings: 12–15

Ingredients

For the Crust & Topping:

  • 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (divided)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Creamy Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

  • 2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained

  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or 2 cups stiffly whipped heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer a slightly firmer crust. (Optional: You can skip baking for a softer crust.)

  2. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with the ½ cup melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.

  3. Reserve ½ cup of this crumb mixture for the topping later.

  4. Firmly press the remaining crumbs into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.

  5. Optional: Bake for 8–10 minutes for a slightly crisp crust. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).

  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 3: Fold in the Pineapple

  1. Drain the crushed pineapple very well. Press through a fine-mesh strainer with a spoon to remove excess juice, which could make the dessert runny.

  2. Gently fold the drained pineapple into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

  1. Gently fold in the whipped topping or stiffly whipped heavy cream until fully combined.

  2. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep as much air in the mixture as possible for a light, fluffy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Dessert

  1. Spread the creamy pineapple filling evenly over the graham cracker crust.

  2. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of graham cracker crumbs evenly on top as a finishing touch.

Step 6: Chill

  1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid.

  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but for best results, chill overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Dream Dessert

  • Drain the pineapple thoroughly: Use a fine-mesh strainer and press gently with a spoon to remove extra juice.

  • Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are soft before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.

  • Gentle folding: Folding preserves the air in the whipped topping, keeping the dessert light and airy.

  • Optional garnishes: Top with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or extra pineapple chunks for a decorative touch.

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