Description
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is the perfect treat for those who love tropical flavors without the fuss of baking. This creamy, refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of pineapple, the smoothness of cream cheese, and the crunch of a graham cracker crust. It’s ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want a light and luscious dessert. Let’s dive into this easy, no-bake recipe!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 2 cups
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup
For the Filling:
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8 oz) package, softened
- Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed Pineapple: 1 (20 oz) can, drained
- Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): 1 (8 oz) container, thawed
For the Topping (Optional):
- Shredded Sweetened Coconut: 1/2 cup
- Maraschino Cherries: For garnish
- Crushed Graham Crackers: For garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 15 minutes while preparing the filling.
Making the Filling
- Cream the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Pineapple: Fold the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the filling is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Dessert
- Layer the Filling: Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top, garnish with maraschino cherries, and add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Chill to Set: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
Notes
- Ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained to avoid a runny filling.
- For a homemade touch, replace store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped cream.
- Chill the dessert overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert, Pineapple Cream Pie, Easy Tropical Dessert, No-Bake Summer Treat