Description

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a refreshing and easy-to-make treat that will whisk you away to a tropical paradise with every bite. Combining the sweetness of pineapple, the creaminess of whipped topping, and the buttery crunch of a graham cracker crust, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert for a summer gathering or a light treat to end a meal, this pineapple cream dessert checks all the boxes. Best of all, it’s no-bake, making it an ideal option when you want something sweet without turning on the oven

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted
• For the Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup confectioner’s sugar
• 8 oz tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 14-16 oz can crushed pineapple, drained
• ½ cup pineapple chunks
• ½ cup shredded coconut for topping

Preparation Method

Prepare the crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir them together until they are evenly mixed. Pour in the melted butter and continue stirring until the mixture becomes moist and crumbly. The melted butter will help bind the graham cracker crumbs together to form a solid crust.

Form the crust
Take the graham cracker mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your chosen pan (a 9x9-inch square pan works well). Use the back of a spoon or your hands to create a smooth and even layer. Make sure the crust is tightly packed to ensure it holds up when the dessert is cut into squares. Once the crust is formed, set it aside as you move on to the filling.

Create the filling
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add in the confectioner’s sugar, continuing to mix until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy. This combination of cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar creates the perfect base for the filling, providing a rich and smooth texture.

Add the whipped topping
Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the filling light and airy. The whipped topping adds a creamy and fluffy texture that complements the richness of the cream cheese.

Incorporate the pineapple
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid making the dessert too watery. Gently fold the pineapple into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring the pineapple is evenly distributed throughout. The sweet and tangy pineapple will add bursts of flavor and texture to the creamy filling.

Assemble the dessert
Spread the creamy pineapple filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top. After that, scatter the pineapple chunks across the top of the filling for added texture and a burst of fresh pineapple flavor. Finally, sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top as a finishing touch. The coconut adds a tropical flair and a light crunch to each bite.

Chill the dessert
Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is even better. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld together, and the dessert will set beautifully, making it easier to slice into perfect squares when serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the shredded coconut before sprinkling it on top. Toasted coconut adds a deeper, nutty flavor and an extra crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. Additionally, if you’re a fan of citrus, a touch of lime zest can be folded into the filling or sprinkled on top for a bright, zesty twist.

Conclusion:

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is the ultimate fuss-free dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. With its creamy filling, sweet pineapple, and crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. The tropical flavors, combined with the light and airy texture, make this dessert a perfect choice for warmer months when you want something cool and satisfying. Best of all, it’s easy to make and requires just a few simple steps—perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to impress.