This fun and tropical dessert is a sweet treat that brings sunshine to your table! It’s made with fluffy whipped cream, juicy pineapple, and crunchy pecans for the perfect mix of flavors.
Whenever I make this, the whole house smells like a tropical getaway! 🍍 I love serving it chilled on warm days—it’s like a little slice of summer that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base of the crust, making it sweet and crunchy. If you don’t have graham crackers, try crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla cookies as a substitute for a different twist.
Granulated Sugar: It adds sweetness to the crust and balances the flavors. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can cut back a little or use a sugar substitute like Stevia. Just remember, the texture might differ slightly.
Unsalted Butter: This gives the crust its richness. If you want a lighter option, you could try coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, which can also add a unique flavor!
Cream Cheese: The star of the filling! It provides a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cream cheese available in many stores today. Silken tofu is another option for a lighter dairy-free filling.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is the classic choice here. For a healthier option, homemade whipped cream works well, or you can use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free substitute.
Crushed Pineapple: This brings tropical fruitiness and moisture. If you can’t find canned crushed pineapple, fresh pineapple, finely chopped, is a delicious alternative. Just be sure to remove excess juice!
How Do I Make Sure My Crust is Perfectly Firm?
The crust is important because it supports the creamy filling. To ensure it’s firm and holds up well, follow these steps:
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until fully combined. The mixture should feel like wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the baking dish. Don’t skip this part — a firm press helps create a solid base.
- Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps set the crust and adds a slight crispness.
- Let it cool completely before adding the filling. Adding the filling while the crust is warm can make it soggy.
How to Make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
For The Topping:
- 1 cup granola or crushed walnuts (optional for extra crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a little time mixing and layering, and then just let it set. The wait will be worth it for this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter together until the crumbs are well-coated. This will create your crust. Pack the crumb mixture tightly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.
2. Making the Filling:
While the crust is baking, grab a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it’s combined nicely. Then, gently fold in the Cool Whip and drained crushed pineapple until everything is blended together—this will make a delicious fruity layer!
3. Assembling and Chilling:
Once your crust has cooled completely, pour the pineapple filling over it and spread it out evenly. Now it’s time to chill! Pop the dish in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
4. Serving Up Delight:
When you’re ready to serve, you can sprinkle some granola or crushed walnuts on top for that extra crunch if you’d like. Slice into squares and enjoy this delightful, tropical dessert!
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts or Granola for Topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you prefer, such as slivered almonds, pecans, or even a nut-free granola. Just ensure that any nuts are chopped well, and if using granola, choose a flavor that complements the pineapple — a honey or vanilla granola works beautifully!
How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour mixed with a bit of sugar. Just be sure to check any packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free!
Can I Prepare This Dessert the Night Before?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare and assemble it the night before, just ensure you cover it well in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It might even taste better as the flavors meld together overnight!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on topping it with granola or nuts, consider adding those just before serving to keep them crunchy!
