A refreshing and creamy dessert that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a buttery cookie crust and fluffy cream cheese layer. This no-bake treat is perfect for a light and indulgent finish to any meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
Servings: Depends on cut size, approximately 9-12 squares
Ingredients:
- 200g cookies (such as digestive biscuits or graham crackers)
- 80g butter, melted
- 350g pineapple, drained and chopped
- 200g cream cheese
- 80g powdered sugar
- 300ml 33% cream, heavy cream
Directions:
- Prepare the Cookie Crust:
- Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
- Melt the butter and thoroughly mix it with the cookie crumbs.
- Firmly press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish to form the crust.
- Prepare the Cream Layer:
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Evenly spread the cream mixture over the cookie crust in the baking dish.
- Drain the pineapple and distribute it evenly over the cream layer.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until it is firmly set.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish: Add a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flair.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit.
Cooking Tips:
- Crust Firmness: Ensure the cookie crust is pressed firmly into the dish to provide a stable base for the cream layer.
- Whipping Cream: Make sure the cream is very cold before whipping to achieve stiff peaks more easily.
- Pineapple: Drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture which can make the dessert soggy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dessert (without the pineapple on top) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- No-Bake: Easy to prepare with minimal effort and no oven required.
- Refreshing: Light and tropical flavors perfect for a summer treat or a light dessert.
- Versatile: Can be customized with different fruits or add-ins.
Conclusion:
These Pineapple Cream Dessert Bars are a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures with a burst of tropical flavor. Ideal for a make-ahead treat, they’re sure to impress with their refreshing taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy this light and luscious dessert as a perfect finish to any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different fruit instead of pineapple?
- Yes, you can substitute with fruits like mango, strawberries, or blueberries.
- Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
- Absolutely, this dessert needs at least 4 hours to set in the fridge, so it’s perfect for making ahead.
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
- Yes, you can use any type of cookies you like, such as chocolate chip or vanilla wafers.
- How do I adjust the recipe for a larger or smaller dish?
- Scale the ingredients proportionally based on the size of your baking dish.
- Can I use light cream cheese or whipped topping instead of full-fat cream cheese?
- Yes, but note that using light cream cheese or whipped topping may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
- What can I use instead of butter for the crust?
- You can use coconut oil or a similar fat substitute.
- How can I make the dessert more firm?
- If you need a firmer consistency, you can add a bit of gelatin to the cream mixture.
- Can I freeze this dessert?
- Yes, but omit the pineapple until ready to serve. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator.
- What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
- Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to ensure clean edges.
- Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
- Yes, you can fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the cream mixture for added texture.