Pineapple Delight

Pineapple Delight is a creamy, refreshing dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple with a luscious creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s super easy to make, and it’s a perfect dessert for hot weather or a summer gathering.

Here’s a simple and delicious Pineapple Delight recipe:

Pineapple Delight Recipe

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers, crushed)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added tang)

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Extra pineapple chunks for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sour cream (if using) and mix it in well.
3. Fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. You can also add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pineapple juice to add more pineapple flavor if you like.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

1. Spread the pineapple filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
2. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. If you like, sprinkle the top with shredded coconut and chopped pecans (or walnuts) for added texture and flavor.
2. You can also add a few extra pineapple chunks on top for garnish.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set.
2. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy the cool, creamy, pineapple goodness!

Tips:

• Extra flavor: You can add a bit of vanilla extract to the filling for extra flavor.
• Variations: If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can use pineapple tidbits and chop them up before folding them in.
• For a thicker crust: Use more graham cracker crumbs and butter to make the crust thicker if desired.
• No-bake: If you prefer a no-bake version, simply let it chill for longer and skip the baking step for the crust.

This Pineapple Delight is a cool, creamy, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or any time you want something light and fruity. The combination of the tangy pineapple with the smooth creaminess of the filling makes it a crowd favorite!

Would you like to experiment with any other fruit variations or add different mix-ins?