A light, refreshing, and tropical dessert with a creamy pineapple filling and a sweet, crumbly crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a taste of the tropics.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Whipped cream and pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie plate, forming a crust on the bottom and up the sides.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Let the crust cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating until well combined.
- Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple, pressing out as much liquid as possible. Add the drained pineapple to the cream cheese mixture and mix well.
- In a seperate bowl, using an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pineapple cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the pineapple cream filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to set.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and pineapple wedges, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, you can add a few drops of pineapple extract to the filling.
- You can use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time.
- If you would like to have a thicker pie, you can add one small box of instant vanilla pudding to the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk mixture.
- For a different texture, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top of the pie before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Cream Pie!