Pineapple Spectacular Pie
Do you ever come across those vintage recipes and wonder how people could have possibly enjoyed them? Well, let me assure you, Pineapple Spectacular Pie is not one of those questionable dishes. This delightful pie has been around for 40-50 years, and it’s a testament to its timeless appeal. With a graham cracker crust that you can either make yourself or buy pre-made, a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling, and a vibrant, lemony pineapple topping, this pie is nothing short of spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If the stunning appearance of this pie doesn’t win you over immediately, let me give you a few more reasons. Opting for a store-bought crust means you can have this pie chilling in the fridge in just 30 minutes. Plus, with only five ingredients needed apart from the crust, you’re likely to have most of them on hand already. Even if you decide to make your own graham cracker crust, it only adds an extra 15 minutes to the process. This pie strikes the perfect balance between the sweetness of pineapple, the zest of lemon jello, and the tanginess of cream cheese. It’s not overly sweet, despite how it looks, and it tastes as amazing as it looks!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Measuring cup
- Small or medium saucepan
- Medium bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 graham cracker crust, store-bought
- Filling:
- 1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks, drained, juices reserved
- Water, as needed (water with reserved pineapple juices should make 1 cup)
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (3.4 oz.) package lemon or pineapple jello
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the reserved pineapple juices in a measuring cup and add enough water to make 1 cup of liquid.
- Bring the liquid to a boil in a small or medium saucepan, then whisk in the lemon jello mix.
- In a medium bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1/2 of the lemon jello mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes, or until set.
- Arrange the pineapple chunks on top of the cream cheese layer, then pour the remaining lemon jello on top.
- Return the pie to the refrigerator and chill until fully set.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the pie thoroughly between layers to ensure each layer sets properly.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using a mix of lemon and pineapple jello for a unique flavor combination.
- Add a layer of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This pie offers a balance of flavors without overwhelming sweetness. The nutritional content will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, but remember to save any juices for the jello mixture.
- How long does the pie need to chill? It typically takes a few hours to set fully, so plan accordingly.
In conclusion, Pineapple Spectacular Pie is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. We’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative twists you add to the recipe!