This Pineapple Dream Dessert is a cool, creamy, and light treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a fluffy pineapple-infused Cool Whip topping make this dessert a delightful tropical escape. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and has just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess from the pineapple.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 2 sleeves)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Layers:
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz Cool Whip (fat-free or regular)
- 20 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs until the mixture is uniform and crumbly.
- Press about 2 cups of the graham mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking dish using the flat bottom of a cup to create an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together using an electric mixer until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating on low speed at first, then increasing to high speed for about 1 minute to create a fluffy consistency.
- Stir in 1 heaping tablespoon of the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture for a subtle pineapple flavor.
- Spread this creamy layer evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust using a spatula.
3. Add the Pineapple Cool Whip Layer:
- In another bowl, gently fold the remaining drained pineapple into the Cool Whip. Stir until combined but don’t overmix, to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Spread the pineapple-Cool Whip mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Final Touches:
- Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs on top of the Cool Whip layer for a crunchy finish.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours to let it set before serving. This chilling time is essential for the flavors to meld together.
Description and Tips:
The Pineapple Dream Dessert is a layered masterpiece, combining the textures of a crunchy graham cracker base with a smooth and tangy cream cheese filling. The light and airy pineapple-infused Cool Whip topping brings a tropical sweetness, making every bite a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.
Tips:
- Draining the pineapple well is crucial to prevent a soggy dessert. You can even pat the pineapple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- For a deeper flavor, you can toast the graham cracker crust slightly longer, just watch to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
- Make sure the dessert chills fully—this ensures the layers stay firm and easy to slice.
This dessert is a crowd-pleaser that works wonderfully for potlucks, BBQs, or as a refreshing treat on a warm day!
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