Description
Pineapple Dream Dessert is a creamy, no-bake layered treat featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling with pineapple, and a light Cool Whip topping folded with pineapple. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, tropical delight.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 1/2 cups graham crumbs (2 sleeves)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 heaping tablespoon drained crushed pineapple
Topping
- 20 oz crushed pineapple (drained well, divided)
- 8 oz Cool Whip (fat-free)
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumb mixture (reserved from crust)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to prepare for baking the crust. This step ensures a firm and delicious base for your dessert.
- Prepare the crust. Melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave and let it cool slightly. Combine the melted butter with 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press 2 cups of this mixture firmly into a 9×9 inch square baking pan. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until set, then transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, blending until fully incorporated. Increase the mixer speed and continue beating for about a minute until fluffy. Add a heaping tablespoon of the drained crushed pineapple and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula.
- Assemble the dessert. Spread the cream cheese and pineapple mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. In a separate bowl, fold the remaining drained pineapple into the fat-free Cool Whip until combined. Spread this Cool Whip and pineapple mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Add finishing touches and chill. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of the graham cracker crumb mixture evenly over the top of the Cool Whip layer. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly before serving.
Notes
- You can skip baking the crust and instead press the graham cracker crumb mixture into the pan and chill it for a no-bake version.
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the dessert from becoming soggy.
- Use softened cream cheese and butter to achieve a smooth, creamy filling.
- Refrigeration time is important for texture; longer chilling enhances flavor and firmness.
- Feel free to garnish with additional pineapple slices or toasted coconut for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
