Tropical Paradise Cream Cheese Dip
Indulge in a tropical fusion with this delicious Tropical Paradise Cream Cheese Dip. Combining the creamy richness of soft cream cheese with the sweet and tangy notes of crushed pineapple, this luscious dip is perfect for summer gatherings or festive luau-themed parties. Topped with vibrant maraschino cherries and served in a delightful Hawaiian bread bowl, it's a visually appealing and delectable treat that everyone will love. Serve alongside pieces of fresh Hawaiian bread for a delightful dip experience that will transport you to a beachside paradise.
6-8
Servings
150
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Crushed pineapple
1 cup (drained)
Powdered sugar
4 teaspoons (sifted)
Maraschino cherries
12-14 (for garnish)
Hawaiian bread
1 loaf (round loaf, hollowed)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed for even blending.
2
Carefully hollow out the center of the Hawaiian bread loaf to create a bowl. Ensure that the walls are thick enough to hold the dip without spilling.
3
Transfer the creamy dip into the hollowed Hawaiian bread bowl, smoothing the top if desired.
4
Garnish the dip with maraschino cherries, placing them on top for a decorative and sweet touch.
5
Arrange the scooped-out pieces of Hawaiian bread around the dip on a serving tray or plate for easy dipping. Enjoy your Tropical Paradise Cream Cheese Dip with friends and family!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Paradise Cream Cheese Dip?
It is a sweet and creamy appetizer featuring cream cheese, crushed pineapple, and powdered sugar, served in a hollowed-out Hawaiian bread bowl.
How many servings does this dip provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings.
What kind of pineapple is best for this recipe?
Crushed pineapple is recommended for its fine texture, which blends easily into the cream cheese.
Do I need to drain the pineapple?
Yes, it is essential to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the dip from becoming too runny.
How do I soften the cream cheese?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes before preparation until it is pliable.
Can I make this dip without a food processor?
Yes, you can use an electric hand mixer or stir vigorously by hand, though a food processor ensures the smoothest consistency.
What is the purpose of sifting the powdered sugar?
Sifting removes lumps, ensuring that the sweetener integrates perfectly into the cream cheese base.
How do I prepare the Hawaiian bread bowl?
Slice off the top of a round Hawaiian bread loaf and carefully hollow out the center, leaving thick enough walls to hold the dip.
What should I do with the bread removed from the center?
Tear the removed bread into bite-sized pieces and arrange them around the bowl to be used for dipping.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Should I fill the bread bowl in advance?
It is best to fill the bread bowl just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
How long can the dip stay at room temperature?
Because it contains dairy, the dip should not be left out for more than 2 hours.
Can I freeze the Tropical Paradise Cream Cheese Dip?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the cream cheese to become grainy and the pineapple to release excess moisture.
Are maraschino cherries necessary?
They are used for garnish and add a pop of color and sweetness, but they are optional.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it is very finely chopped and well-drained to achieve the correct dip texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free if the ingredients are certified, but the Hawaiian bread bowl contains gluten. Use gluten-free bread or fruit for a GF version.
Can I add coconut to this dip?
Absolutely! Adding shredded coconut would enhance the tropical flavor profile.
What are the calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, Neufchâtel or low-fat cream cheese can be used, though the dip may be slightly less rich.
What other items can I use for dipping?
Besides Hawaiian bread, you can serve this with pretzels, apple slices, graham crackers, or vanilla wafers.
Can I add nuts for texture?
Yes, chopped macadamia nuts or pecans make a delicious and crunchy addition to this dip.
Is this dip suitable for a summer party?
Yes, its tropical flavors and bright presentation make it ideal for luaus, beach parties, or summer gatherings.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I substitute the powdered sugar?
You can use honey or maple syrup, but the texture may change slightly.
How many cherries should I use for garnish?
The recipe suggests using 12 to 14 maraschino cherries for a decorative top.
What size Hawaiian bread loaf do I need?
A standard 12-ounce to 16-ounce round loaf works best for creating a dip bowl.
Can I add a little citrus to the recipe?
Yes, a teaspoon of lime or lemon zest can add a nice bright note to the dip.
Is this dip kid-friendly?
Yes, its sweet and creamy flavor is generally very popular with children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use two bread bowls if serving a larger crowd.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are approximately 9 grams of fat per serving.