This Easy Grandma’s Classic Pineapple Dream is a delightful dessert that combines creamy pudding and sweet pineapple. It’s super easy to whip up and tastes like a tropical vacation!
The best part? It’s perfect for any gathering, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! I love serving it chilled on a hot day—it’s like a sunny treat in a bowl! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This forms the base of your dessert. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even Oreos for a chocolate twist! Just crush them the same way.
Cream Cheese: A key ingredient for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using whipped cream cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese for a similar taste.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: It adds sweetness and creaminess. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute it with coconut cream or Greek yogurt, adjusting the sweetness accordingly.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This thickens the filling. If you don’t have it, homemade vanilla custard can work too—you’ll just have to cook it. Alternatively, try cheesecake flavored pudding for a fun twist!
How Do I Make the Perfect Crust?
The crust is simple but important! Make sure you press down the graham cracker mixture firmly in your baking dish. Here’s how:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until mixed well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the dish evenly. Use the bottom of a cup to help compress.
- Bake it for just 8 minutes until lightly golden—this adds a nice flavor!
- Let it cool completely before adding your creamy filling to keep it crisp.
Enjoy the process and the delicious results—this dessert is sure to impress!
Easy Grandma’s Classic Pineapple Dream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 8 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 4 hours of refrigeration time to let it set perfectly. So, plan on making it ahead of time to enjoy its full, creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and crumbly. Then, press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a tasty crust. Bake it in the oven for about 8 minutes, just until it’s lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Creamy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until everything is well combined and smooth. In another separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens. Then gently fold this pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until it’s all incorporated.
3. Combine with Pineapple and Whipped Topping:
Next, gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and the thawed whipped topping until everything is well combined and fluffy. This will add a delicious fruitiness to your dessert! Now, pour this creamy mixture evenly over your cooled crust and spread it out to smooth the top. If you want, feel free to sprinkle some extra graham cracker crumbs on top for that special touch.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid, and transfer it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time—the longer it chills, the better it sets! Once ready, slice it into squares and serve chilled. Everyone will love this creamy, dreamy Pineapple Dream dessert! Enjoy! 🍍✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pineapple, just chop it into small pieces and drain off any excess juice. It adds a great fresh flavor to the recipe!
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or use crushed nuts for the crust. Just make sure all ingredients, including the pudding mix, are certified gluten-free.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so simply grab a slice when you’re ready to indulge!
Can I Use Other Flavors of Pudding?
Definitely! While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate, banana, or even coconut instant pudding for a fun twist. Just adjust the toppings accordingly!
