Description
This Easy Pineapple Dream Dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, fluffy mixture of cream cheese, whipped topping, and juicy crushed pineapple. It’s a no-bake, refreshing dessert perfect for summer or any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated with butter to create a sandy texture.
- Bake the crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned and set. Remove and allow to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, using either a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add pineapple: Stir in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly incorporated through the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pineapple and cream cheese mixture until the texture is light and fluffy, taking care not to deflate it.
- Assemble the dessert: Spread the pineapple cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top for an even finish.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set and flavors to meld. Serve chilled for best results.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the dessert from becoming watery.
- Allow the crust to cool fully before adding the filling to prevent melting or mixing.
- For a lighter option, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat whipped topping.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator.
- Serve with fresh pineapple slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
