Polynesian Treat
A creamy, tropical dessert featuring pineapple, marshmallows, and gingersnaps, layered to create a sweet treat perfect for gatherings and those who love rich, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat crushed pineapple and vanilla in a saucepan until boiling.
- Remove from heat and add miniature marshmallows and chopped nuts.
- Stir until marshmallows melt and mixture thickens. Chill until set.
- Chill evaporated milk in refrigerator until soft ice crystals form around edges.
- Whip chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
- Add lemon juice and whip until very stiff.
- Fold whipped milk into the marshmallow mixture.
- Combine crushed gingersnaps and melted butter.
- Press half of the gingersnap mixture into the bottom of a 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish or a 9-inch pie plate.
- Top with half of the milk and marshmallow mixture.
- Repeat layers with remaining gingersnap mixture and milk mixture.
- Chill for 2 to 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding shredded coconut or swapping out the gingersnaps for crushed graham crackers. If you prefer a lighter dessert, use low-fat evaporated milk. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dish. If you want a more intense pineapple flavor, add a splash of pineapple juice when heating.
Serving Suggestions
This Polynesian Treat is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a tropical fruit salad. It's a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or potlucks, making it a wonderful addition to any event.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat. Just serve it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polynesian Treat contains roughly 824 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
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, fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure it's finely chopped and drained well to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to allow for the fresh fruit to soften.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Polynesian Treat gluten-free, substitute the gingersnaps with a gluten-free cookie alternative or crushed gluten-free graham crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the marshmallows and nuts, are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dessert a day in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert actually benefits from being made a day ahead as it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly. Simply cover it well and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.
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).