Grandma’s Pineapple Dream is a tropical treat that combines sweet pineapple with creamy goodness. It’s light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet to make you smile!
Whenever I have this dessert, it brings back fond memories of family gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for when you want something special without a fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are the base of your crust. If you’re short on graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits work great too! For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free graham crackers or even ground almonds.
Unsalted Butter: It’s best to use unsalted to control the sweetness of the dessert. If you need a dairy-free version, coconut oil or a dairy-free butter can be used instead.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds a light, airy texture to the dessert. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, or for a non-dairy alternative, use coconut cream, which will also add a delightful flavor.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. If you prefer something lighter, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or cottage cheese blended until smooth. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cream cheese.
Canned Crushed Pineapple: Make sure to drain it well to avoid a soggy base. Fresh pineapple can be used if you have it on hand, just ensure to finely chop it. If you’d like a twist, try using other fruits like peaches or berries.
How Do I Create a Perfect Crust?
The crust is the foundation of this dessert, so let’s get it right! First, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. It should feel like wet sand when it’s mixed well. Press it into the baking dish firmly—not too loose, or it’ll crumble when serving.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden and set. This step helps it hold together.
- Let the crust cool completely before adding the creamy layer on top to prevent sogginess.
Taking the time to get the crust right makes a big difference and sets you up for a delicious dessert!
How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream
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 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 10 minutes of baking time, and then you’ll need at least 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the fridge. So total time includes some waiting, but it’s worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix it well with a spoon until everything is blended. Then, take this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will be your crust!
2. Bake the Crust:
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until it looks lightly golden. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Once done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
3. Make the Filling:
In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for this. In a different bowl, whip the heavy cream with a whisk or mixer until stiff peaks form. This means it should stand up on its own. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s fully combined.
4. Add the Pineapple:
Now, stir in the drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract into the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture. Make sure everything is mixed well.
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Spread the pineapple mixture over the cooled crust in your baking dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Chill and Serve:
Finally, cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, so it can set nicely. Once ready, cut into squares and serve cold. Enjoy the creamy layers of Grandma’s Pineapple Dream!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pineapple, just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice after cutting. You may want to adjust the sweetness slightly, as fresh pineapple can be less sweet than canned.
Can I Substitute Low-Fat Ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and heavy cream if you’re looking to reduce calories. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different, but it should still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled, as the creamy layers will stay fresh longer when properly stored.
Can I Make This Dessert in Advance?
Definitely! In fact, making it a day ahead is often best, as it allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set beautifully. Just remember to cover it well in the fridge after it has set to keep it fresh.
