Description
This Pineapple Dream Dessert is a delightful layered treat featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, a light pineapple and whipped topping mix, and a crunchy graham cracker crumb topping. Perfectly chilled to set, this refreshing dessert is fruity, creamy, and ideal for gatherings or a sweet summer treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Pineapple Layer
- 1 large can (2½ cups) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup Cool Whip or whipped topping
Topping
- Remaining graham cracker crumbs from the initial 2½ cups
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (148°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until thoroughly mixed. Press 2 cups of this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
- Prepare the Pineapple Layer: In another bowl, gently mix the well-drained crushed pineapple with the Cool Whip or whipped topping until combined. Spread this pineapple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Finish with Graham Cracker Mixture: Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs uniformly over the top of the pineapple layer to add a crunchy texture finish.
- Refrigerate to Set: Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled and set, slice the dessert into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and creamy treat.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture that can make the dessert soggy.
- Using softened butter and cream cheese makes mixing easier and results in a smoother texture.
- This dessert is best served chilled; allow ample refrigeration time for the layers to set properly.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Cool Whip with a low-fat whipped topping.
- You can add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and flavor.
