Ritz Pineapple Dessert
A light and crunchy pineapple-flavored dessert featuring crushed Ritz crackers, nut pieces, and a sweet meringue-like topping, perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed Ritz crackers, baking powder, and nut pieces together and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the cracker mixture into the egg whites, sugar, and vanilla mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F for 20 to 25 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider lightly toasting the nut pieces before mixing them in. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers. You can also try using different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for varied flavor. Ensure you beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the best texture in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Ritz Pineapple Dessert is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. Serve alongside fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it after a light salad or as a sweet ending to a family gathering, complementing dishes like My Mother'S Apricot Nectar Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through, being careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Pineapple Dessert contains roughly 640 calories, with 11g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% 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
Is it possible to add fruit to this dessert?
Absolutely! You can fold in crushed or diced pineapple for an extra fruity twist. Alternatively, topping the dessert with fresh fruit like slices of banana or berries just before serving can add a refreshing touch and visual appeal.
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).