Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie: A Tropical Delight
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is a perfect blend of creamy indulgence and tropical sweetness, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and rich.
The tanginess of cream cheese balances wonderfully with the natural sweetness of pineapples, making each bite a delightful experience.
Whether for a family gathering, a special occasion, or a simple treat to enjoy at home, this pie brings a touch of the tropics to any table.
Ingredients
FOR THE CRUST:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FILLING:
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
FOR THE PINEAPPLE TOPPING:
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
FOR THE GARNISH:
1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
1/4 cup chopped pecans
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White chocolate drizzle (optional)
Instructions
Start by preparing the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well coated and resembles wet sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish, creating an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Next, take the cream cheese and beat it with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until fully combined.
Then, add the pineapple chunks (be sure to drain them well if using canned pineapple) along with the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth and incorporated.
Once the filling is ready, pour it over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly.
making sure to reach the edges of the crust. After that, refrigerate the pie for several hours, or preferably overnight, so the filling can set and the flavors can meld together.
Before serving, consider topping the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or extra pineapple chunks for added decoration and flavor.
The whipped cream enhances the creaminess, while the pineapple adds a burst of tropical freshness. Slice and serve cold for the perfect dessert experience.
How to Make
Making Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is relatively simple and requires just a few steps. Begin by preparing the crust. Mixing graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter gives the crust its base flavor.
. The key is to press the crust firmly enough so it holds together when served but not so hard that it becomes difficult to cut.
The next crucial step is to prepare the filling. The cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly with the sweetened condensed milk.
After mixing these two ingredients, adding pineapple gives the pie its signature flavor. Be careful not to add too much liquid from the pineapple—draining it thoroughly ensures that the filling doesn’t become too runny.
Once you’ve combined all the ingredients for the filling, pour it into the prepared crust. Spread it evenly so that every slice has the same amount of creamy filling.
The chilling time is important because it helps the pie set properly and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Chilling overnight is highly recommended, but if you’re short on time, a few hours in the refrigerator should be sufficient for the pie to firm up. The longer the pie chills.
The more the flavors meld, resulting in a richer taste. If you’re looking for a fresh topping, consider adding sliced fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey before serving for an added touch.
Tips
When preparing the crust, feel free to experiment with different types of cookies or crackers for a unique flavor.
Graham crackers are the classic choice, but vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits can work well too. The key is to choose a mild, sweet biscuit that complements the filling.
To get the perfect texture for the filling, ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This will prevent any lumps and ensure a silky smooth texture.
If you’re using canned pineapple, always drain the chunks thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the pie filling. You can also pulse the pineapple in a food processor to break the chunks down into smaller pieces if desired.
For a more pronounced pineapple flavor, consider adding a small amount of pineapple juice to the filling.
Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can cause the filling to become too runny. A splash of rum or coconut extract could also bring a tropical twist to the flavor profile of your pie.
If you’re looking to add a crunchy texture on top, toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts.
would be great additions. Simply sprinkle them over the whipped cream or directly on the filling before serving for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
For those who prefer a lighter version of the pie, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a whipped topping to reduce the fat content.
While this will change the flavor slightly, it still delivers a creamy and refreshing dessert. You can also use a sugar substitute in place of sweetened condensed milk to make it a lower-calorie option.
Before serving, let the pie sit for a few minutes at room temperature to make it easier to slice. Cold pies.
can sometimes be tough to cut, so giving it a short time to soften slightly ensures clean slices. A sharp knife will also help achieve neat, smooth slices.
If you’re serving this pie to a crowd, consider making it in individual servings. Mini graham cracker crusts and small amounts of the filling .
can be layered into individual cups or jars for a more personalized dessert experience. This makes for a fun, portable version of the classic pie.
Conclusion
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is a versatile and delicious dessert that combines tropical flavors with a creamy.
indulgent filling. It’s an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or any occasion where you want to wow your guests with something both refreshing and decadent.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twists, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The smooth filling, crunchy crust, and bright pineapple flavor create a well-rounded dessert that’s both satisfying and light at the same time.