Pineapple Ritz
A light and crunchy pineapple dessert with nutty and sweet flavors, topped with creamy Dream Whip, perfect for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, baking powder, crushed Ritz crackers, and ground nuts to the egg whites and fold gently.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Prepare Dream Whip according to package instructions, using skim milk if desired.
- Blend the prepared Dream Whip with vanilla, softened cream cheese, and drained crushed pineapple until smooth.
- Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the cooled crumb crust.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them to stiff peaks. You can substitute the ground walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts altogether. Consider using reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the calorie count. This dessert is reminiscent of American recipes that feature a fruity filling and a crumbly base.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple Ritz pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra indulgence. Serve it alongside a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy it as a dessert after dishes like Crunchy Sweet Potato Casserole, which complements its sweet and tangy flavor perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crust may soften over time, so it’s best to serve it fresh. If you need to reheat, avoid the microwave; instead, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to help restore its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Ritz contains roughly 1008 calories, with 20g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Just make sure to finely chop and drain it well to remove excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the filling. Fresh pineapple will provide a brighter flavor and a nice texture in the dish.
What can I do if I don't have Dream Whip?
If you don't have Dream Whip, you can substitute it with whipped cream or make your own by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. This will give you a similar creamy texture for the topping.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or a gluten-free cookie crumble. Ensure that the other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are also gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy this delicious dessert without gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).