Brenda Gantt Pineapple Dip Recipe

This pineapple dip is the kind of recipe that feels like it’s been sitting in a handwritten church cookbook for decades, and that’s exactly why I love it. The first time I made a version inspired by Brenda Gantt, I honestly thought it would be too simple to impress anyone. I was wrong. It disappeared faster than any fancy appetizer on the table.

What makes this dip special isn’t complexity, it’s balance. Sweet pineapple, creamy base, just enough tang, and that unmistakable Southern comfort that makes people ask for the recipe before they even finish their plate. I’ve tweaked this over time after a few missteps, like adding too much juice once and ending up with a runny mess. This version is the one I stick with now.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, very well drained
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Flavor Additions

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• Chopped pecans for crunch
• A pinch of cayenne for subtle heat
• Extra cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor

Preparation and Serving Time

• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (recommended)
• Total Time: About 45 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 as an appetizer

Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple

• Drain the crushed pineapple extremely well
• Press it through a fine strainer or squeeze gently with clean hands

This step matters more than anything else. Too much juice will thin the dip and dull the flavor.

Mix the Creamy Base

• In a medium bowl, add softened cream cheese
• Stir until smooth and lump-free
• Add mayonnaise and mix well

If your cream cheese is still cold, the dip won’t blend properly.

Add Flavor and Texture

• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese
• Add chopped onion, sugar, salt, and black pepper
• Mix until evenly combined

The onion should be very finely chopped so it blends in without overpowering the dip.

Fold in the Pineapple

• Gently fold the drained pineapple into the mixture
• Stir just until combined

Overmixing at this stage can break down the pineapple and affect the texture.

Chill Before Serving

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
• Stir once before serving

Chilling allows the flavors to settle and mellow beautifully.

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Tips for Getting That Brenda Gantt Style

• Keep the ingredient list simple
• Use sharp cheddar, not mild
• Drain pineapple more than you think necessary
• Don’t skip the chilling step
• Taste before serving and adjust seasoning

Brenda Gantt-style recipes shine because they’re humble and well-balanced, not overloaded.

Serving Suggestions

This pineapple dip is incredibly versatile and works with:

• Butter crackers or saltines
• Ritz crackers
• Pita chips
• Celery sticks
• Pretzel thins

It also makes a great addition to holiday appetizer spreads, baby showers, potlucks, and Sunday dinners.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps well for up to 3 days

Make-Ahead Option

• Prepare up to 24 hours in advance
• Stir gently before serving

This dip actually tastes better the next day once flavors fully blend.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining pineapple enough
• Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents
• Skipping the chill time
• Over-salting before tasting
• Adding too much onion

Simple recipes leave little room for error, so technique matters.

Variations You Can Try

Sweeter Version

Add an extra teaspoon of sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Savory Version

Reduce sugar and add extra cheese or a pinch of garlic powder.

Crunchy Version

Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving.

Spicy-Sweet Version

Add a small pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper.

FAQs

Is this the exact Brenda Gantt recipe?

No, the original recipe is not officially published, but this version closely follows the Southern flavor profile she’s known for.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, but it must be finely crushed and very well drained.

Why is my dip watery?

The pineapple wasn’t drained enough, or the cream cheese was too warm.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made a few hours ahead.

Can I freeze pineapple dip?

Freezing is not recommended. Dairy-based dips can separate when thawed.

Is this dip sweet or savory?

It’s a balanced blend of both, which is why it works so well as an appetizer.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best contrast to the pineapple’s sweetness.

There’s something comforting about a recipe like this. It doesn’t try to be trendy or complicated, and that’s exactly why it works. This Brenda Gantt-inspired pineapple dip is proof that a few well-chosen ingredients, treated with care, can create something people remember. Every time I set it out, it’s gone before anything else, and honestly, that’s how you know a recipe is a keeper.