This Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a refreshing treat! With creamy layers and sweet pineapple, it’s perfect for warm days and gatherings.
You don’t need an oven for this one, and that’s a win for me! I love how quickly it comes together. Just mix, layer, and chill—simple and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These are essential for the crust and offer a sweet crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free graham crackers or crushed cookies like almond or rice cookies.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. For a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. Dairy-free cream cheese can also be used for a vegan version!
Pineapple: Crushed pineapple gives the dessert its flavor. If you prefer fresh, crush your own ripe pineapple. You can also use other fruits like mango or berries for a twist!
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip adds fluffiness. If you want a homemade version, whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. This adds freshness!
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Filling Smoothly?
Mixing the filling correctly is key for a silky texture. Start by letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature; this makes it easier to beat and avoids lumps.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for smooth results.
- Mix the cream cheese first with the powdered sugar until creamy.
- When adding the whipped topping and pineapple, fold gently using a spatula. This keeps the mixture light and airy!
Remember, patience is important here. Don’t rush the mixing! A smooth filling leads to a delightful dessert.
Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers (about 1 1/2 cups finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped cream or additional whipped topping for folding
For Topping (Optional):
- Pineapple chunks
- Shredded coconut or extra graham cracker crumbs
Time Estimate:
This delicious no-bake dessert takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to chill it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set. So, overall, plan for about 4 hours and 20 minutes including prep time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square dish or a similar sized pan to form a nice, even crust. Chill it in the refrigerator while you work on the filling.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Then add the powdered sugar and mix until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients for the Filling:
Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture. Mix carefully to keep the filling light and fluffy—no need for heavy mixing here!
4. Assemble the Dessert:
Now it’s time to pour the luscious pineapple cream mixture over the chilled crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to get a nice smooth top.
5. Chill and Set:
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, for the best results, overnight. This will help the layers set beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, feel free to top it off with some pineapple chunks and sprinkle shredded coconut or graham cracker crumbs for a bit of extra texture. Cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing dessert chilled!
This creamy, no-bake treat has a crunchy graham cracker crust and delicious pineapple cream filling. It’s light and perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to crush fresh pineapple until you have about 2 cups and drain it well before adding it to the filling. This will give you a fresher taste!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the texture may become a bit softer as it sits.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. The dessert will still taste amazing!
How Can I Make This Dessert More Creamy?
If you want extra creaminess, try adding an additional 4 oz of cream cheese or a bit of heavy cream whipped to soft peaks and folded into the filling for an even richer texture!
