You know how sometimes you just need a dessert that feels like sunshine on a plate—but without turning on the oven? This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is exactly that. It’s light, luscious, and loaded with tropical flavor. And let me tell you, it’s got all the charm of a Southern summer picnic with none of the sweat.

Between the buttery graham cracker crust and that cool, creamy pineapple filling, every bite is like a tiny vacation. The kind where your toes are in the sand, and someone else is doing the dishes.

Why This One’s a Keeper

There are desserts you make once and forget. And then there are the ones that become legends in your family. This pineapple dream? Oh, it’s definitely in the second category.

Easy Peasy: No baking. No fancy gadgets. Just mix, chill, and you’re golden.
Tropical Twist: That combo of pineapple, cream cheese, and coconut is like a luau in your mouth.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s just the thing for a potluck, barbecue, or Tuesday night when you’re craving something sweet but not heavy.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Whip it up the night before, and let the fridge do the magic.

Let’s Talk Ingredients (And Why They Work So Well)

You don’t need a mile-long shopping list—just the good stuff that works beautifully together.

Filling Faves:

Cream Cheese: Adds that dreamy, rich base. Just make sure it’s softened so you’re not fighting with your mixer.
Whipped Topping: Store-bought is fine, but if you’re feeling extra, homemade whipped cream gives it that “Wow, you made this?!” vibe.
Crushed Pineapple: Drain it well—nobody wants soggy filling. It adds just the right burst of fruity sweetness.
Confectioner’s Sugar: This is used to sweeten without that gritty texture. Smooth as silk.
Pineapple Chunks + Shredded Coconut: for topping. It gives texture, a little chew and a lot of personality.

Crust Basics:

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic, right? Crunchy and cozy.
Sugar: A pinch, for balance.
Butter: The binder and flavor enhancer Don’t skimp!

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make That Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Alright, we’re starting with the crust. It’s buttery, a little crumbly, and honestly—one of my favorite parts.

Here’s what you do:
In a medium bowl, stir together 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ⅓ cup of sugar. Give it a good mix so the sugar’s evenly spread out.

Now, melt ½ cup of butter and pour it right in. Mix it all together until the crumbs are moist and sandy. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to hold together if you pinch it.

Next, pour it into an 8×8 or 9×9-inch dish and press it down firmly. I like to use the bottom of a glass—it gets the job done and makes a nice even layer.

Pop the crust into the fridge while you work on the filling. Just a little chill time helps it set up.

Step 2: Whip Up the Filling

Now for the good stuff—the creamy, dreamy pineapple filling.

In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with ¾ cup of powdered sugar. Mix until it’s smooth and silky.

Then, add in an 8 oz tub of whipped topping and gently mix until it’s light and fluffy. Don’t overthink it—just mix until it looks nice and airy.

Drain a can of crushed pineapple really well (nobody wants a soggy dessert), then gently fold it into your cream mixture. Take your time folding—it helps keep everything soft and fluffy.

Step 3: Put It All Together

Time to bring it all home.

Take that crust out of the fridge and spread your pineapple cream filling right on top. Smooth it out gently so it reaches all the edges.

Now for a little something extra—sprinkle a few pineapple chunks and some shredded coconut on top. Totally optional, but it makes it look pretty and adds a little texture.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Now here’s the hard part… waiting!

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the fridge. It needs at least 4 hours to set, but overnight is even better if you can swing it.

When you’re ready to serve, cut it into squares and enjoy. It’s cool, creamy, a little bit tropical, and just downright delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This no-bake pineapple cream dessert is a hit just the way it is, but if you’re looking to add a little flair, here are a few easy ways to dress it up:

A little extra fruit never hurts. Try topping it with a few pineapple tidbits or scatter on some fresh berries—whatever you have on hand. It adds a fresh touch and looks pretty too.
Whipped cream is always welcome. A spoonful on top makes it feel a little more special, and if you happen to have coconut whipped cream, even better—it plays so nicely with the pineapple.
Feeling fancy? Drizzle a little melted chocolate over the top. White chocolate adds a sweet contrast, and dark chocolate gives it a rich, slightly grown-up twist. Not necessary, but definitely a treat.

This is one of those desserts that works just about anywhere—summer barbecues, church potlucks, or just a quiet night at home when you want something cool and creamy without a lot of fuss.

Storage Tips

One of the best parts about this dessert? It’s easy to make ahead and keeps well, which makes it a great option when you’re planning ahead or feeding a crowd.

To refrigerate: Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 4 or 5 days. The flavors just get better with time, and the texture stays creamy and refreshing.
To freeze: You can also freeze it! Just wrap it tightly with plastic and foil, or pop it into an airtight container. Freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight—it holds up beautifully.

Recipe Variations to Try

You know I love a dessert that plays well with others—and this creamy pineapple treat definitely does. Whether you’re craving a tropical twist or a splash of chocolate, there’s plenty of room to have fun with it:

Tropical Paradise
A handful of shredded coconut mixed into the filling takes this straight to the beach. And if you have some mango or passion fruit purée lying around? A little drizzle on top makes it feel extra special.

Berry Pineapple Cream
Try swapping out half the crushed pineapple for raspberries or strawberries—fresh or frozen both work. The combo is so pretty, and that sweet-tart flavor? Just lovely with the cream.

Chocolate Pineapple Delight
I’ve done this one when I want just a hint of chocolate—add a spoonful of cocoa powder to the graham crust. And if you’re feeling fancy, a little chocolate sauce on top is never a bad idea.

Piña Colada Vibes
Sub in some coconut whipped cream or add a dash of rum extract to the filling. Top with toasted coconut and you’ve got yourself a no-bake vacation.

Lemon-Lifted Pineapple
Sometimes all it takes is the zest of a lemon and a squeeze of juice to brighten everything up. It gives the dessert a clean, citrusy edge that plays so well with the pineapple.

One Last Thing…

This no-bake pineapple cream dessert is proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to whip up something show-stopping. It’s light enough for warm weather but comforting enough for any time of year. So the next time you’re asked to bring dessert—or just want a sweet escape—you know what to make.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a fork in one hand and a square of this in the other. Go on, give it a try. Just don’t blame me when everyone asks for the recipe. 😉