Shirley'S Original Pineapple And Cream Cheese Spread
A sweet and creamy pineapple and cream cheese spread with cherries, perfect for sandwiches and gatherings, offering a delightful blend of fruity and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple, softened cream cheese, vanilla pudding, chopped cherries, and sugar.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
- Spread onto sandwiches or serve as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the chopped cherries with chopped strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor. If you want a sweeter spread, consider adding a bit more sugar or using sweetened whipped cream instead of cream cheese. This spread works great as a topping for bagels or toast, making it versatile for breakfast or snacks.
Serving Suggestions
This spread is delightful on sandwiches, especially with ham or turkey, and pairs beautifully with a light salad like Cherry Chill Salad. Serve it as a dip with graham crackers or fresh fruit as a refreshing appetizer. For a fun dessert, try pairing it with a slice of A Different Carrot Cake for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it slightly before spreading. Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Original Pineapple And Cream Cheese Spread contains roughly 258 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber.
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, but be sure to finely chop it and drain off excess juice to avoid a watery spread. Fresh pineapple will add a vibrant flavor and a bit of crunch, making the spread even more refreshing.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this spread healthier, consider using low-fat or non-fat cream cheese. You can also reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Adding Greek yogurt instead of some cream cheese can increase protein content while keeping it creamy.
Is this spread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this spread is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond dairy. Just be sure to check the pudding mix for any gelatin or additives that may not align with a vegetarian diet.
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).