Pineapple Delight Dessert Recipe

Pineapple Delight is a refreshing, creamy dessert that combines sweet pineapple with a smooth, fluffy filling and a crunchy base. It’s a perfect summer treat or a simple dessert to make for any occasion. Here’s a simple recipe for Pineapple Delight:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (you can use crushed digestive biscuits as a substitute)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (8 oz) tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pineapple Layer:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional for added texture and flavor)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
2. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish to form a compact crust.
4. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm it up.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple Layer

1. In a separate bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple with the reserved pineapple juice.
2. Add the shredded coconut and chopped nuts (if using) to the pineapple mixture, stirring to combine.
3. Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours, or until it’s fully chilled and set.
2. Before serving, you can garnish with extra coconut flakes or chopped nuts if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Crust Variations: You can switch up the crust by using vanilla wafer crumbs or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
• Pineapple Alternatives: If you prefer fresh pineapple, you can chop it up and drain it well before using it as a topping, but canned pineapple works best for this dessert.
• Whipped Topping Substitute: If you don’t have whipped topping, you can make your own by whipping heavy cream with some powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving based on 9 servings):

• Calories: 250-300
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 2g

Conclusion:

This Pineapple Delight dessert is easy to make, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling paired with the sweet and tangy pineapple makes for a delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or as a sweet end to a meal, this dessert will surely impress!