No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is the perfect treat for any occasion, combining a rich, creamy filling with tropical pineapple flavors and a buttery graham cracker crust. The contrast of textures from the velvety cream cheese and whipped topping filling to the slightly crunchy crust creates a delightful bite each time.

The addition of crushed pineapple in the filling brings a refreshing burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the subtle tang of cream cheese, while the shredded coconut and pineapple chunks on top add an extra tropical twist. Best of all, this dessert requires no baking, making it an easy and stress-free choice for a warm-weather gathering or a quick family dessert.

After chilling, each square holds its shape beautifully, offering a sweet and tangy experience in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cream Dessert:

Simple and Quick: Using a no-bake graham cracker crust and a creamy filling, this dessert requires minimal hands-on time and no baking—just mix, chill, and enjoy!

Light and Refreshing: The crushed pineapple and whipped topping create a light, airy filling with a refreshing tropical flavor that’s perfect for summer or any time you’re craving something sweet yet light.

Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: This dessert is great for potlucks, picnics, family dinners, and celebrations. The creamy filling, pineapple chunks, and coconut topping make it visually appealing as well as delicious.

Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s best made a day ahead, making it an ideal dessert for planning ahead or serving at a gathering.

Key Ingredients:

For the Filling

Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, creamy base with a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the pineapple. Make sure it’s softened for easier blending and a smooth texture.

Whipped Topping: Lightens the filling and adds a fluffy texture. You can use store-bought whipped topping or homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.

Crushed Pineapple: Adds fruity sweetness and a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. Be sure to drain it well to prevent the filling from becoming watery.

Confectioner’s Sugar: Sweetens the filling without adding a gritty texture. Confectioner’s sugar is finer and dissolves easily, making it ideal for no-bake desserts.

Pineapple Chunks: These provide extra bursts of pineapple flavor on top, adding visual appeal and texture to each slice.

Shredded Coconut: Adds a touch of tropical flavor and a slight crunch as a topping. Toasted coconut can be used if you want a richer flavor.

For the Crust

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Form the base of the crust, providing a slightly sweet, crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the crust, balancing the slightly tangy filling.

Butter: Binds the crust and adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the graham crackers. Make sure the butter is fully melted to evenly coat the crumbs.

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure the sugar is well distributed.
Add the Butter: Pour 1/2 cup melted butter over the graham cracker mixture. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and achieve a sandy texture.
Press the Crust: Transfer the graham cracker mixture into an 8 x 8 or 9 x 9-inch pan, pressing it down with the back of a spoon or a glass to create an even, compact layer.
Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup confectioner’s sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the Whipped Topping: Add an 8 oz tub of whipped topping and beat until the filling is light and fluffy.
Fold in the Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple to incorporate it into the cream mixture without deflating it.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

Spread the Filling: Take the crust out of the refrigerator and spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the crust.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle pineapple chunks and shredded coconut evenly over the filling to add texture and flavor.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Chill the Dessert: Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set firmly.
Serve: Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful mix of creamy filling, sweet pineapple, and crunchy crust.

Serving Suggestions:

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is delightful on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to make it even more special:

Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add a few extra pineapple slices or a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Top with Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or even a swirl of coconut whipped cream for an extra tropical touch.
Drizzle of Chocolate: A light drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate across the top can add a delicious contrast to the fruity flavors.

This dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply when you want to enjoy a refreshing, creamy treat.

Storage Tips:

This dessert is great for making ahead and stores well, so you can enjoy it over several days.

Refrigerating

Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the dessert will stay fresh and delicious.

Freezing

This dessert can also be frozen if you want to enjoy it later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Variations to Try:

This dessert is versatile and easy to adapt to suit different tastes. Here are some fun twists to try:

1. Tropical Paradise Variation

Add a few tablespoons of shredded coconut to the filling along with the pineapple. For an extra tropical flair, drizzle a bit of passion fruit or mango puree on top before serving.

2. Berry Pineapple Cream Dessert

Substitute half of the crushed pineapple with fresh or frozen raspberries or strawberries. The combination of berries and pineapple adds a beautiful color and a fresh, tangy taste.

3. Chocolate Pineapple Delight

Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the graham cracker crust for a subtle chocolate flavor. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for a tropical chocolate-pineapple twist.

4. Piña Colada-Inspired Dessert

Replace half of the whipped topping with coconut whipped cream or add a teaspoon of rum extract to the filling for a Piña Colada flavor. Garnish with toasted coconut for added texture and taste.

5. Lemon Pineapple Cream Dessert

Add the zest of one lemon to the filling along with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty twist. This brightens up the dessert and enhances the tropical vibe.

Conclusion:

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a refreshing, easy-to-make treat that brings tropical flavors to your table in a creamy, satisfying way. With its buttery graham cracker crust, light pineapple cream filling, and touch of coconut, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress without needing a lot of time or effort. Whether you’re serving it for a party, a family gathering, or just because, this dessert is guaranteed to be a hit.

So, get ready to chill and serve up a slice of tropical paradise—this pineapple cream dessert is as delicious as it is easy!