This No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a refreshing treat that combines creamy goodness with sweet pineapple. It’s super easy to whip up and doesn’t require any baking—perfect for hot days!
You’ll love how light and fluffy this dessert feels! I like to top it with extra pineapple pieces for added fun. Trust me, it’ll be a hit at any gathering! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give a nice crunchy base to the dessert. If you can’t find graham crackers, you can use vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits as a substitute. They will alter the flavor slightly but still work well!
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter because it allows better control over the dessert’s overall saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a good alternative, though it will add a hint of coconut flavor.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese works best for a creamy texture. If dairy is a concern, try using a vegan cream cheese. Just ensure it’s softened before mixing to get a smooth result.
Whipped Topping: I use Cool Whip, but you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form. It’ll add a nice freshness!
Crushed Pineapple: Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid a soggy dessert. If pineapple isn’t available, diced peaches or mandarin oranges can be fun alternatives in flavor!
How Do You Make Sure the Cream Mixture is Smooth?
Getting a smooth and creamy filling is key to this dessert. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Start with softened cream cheese; if it’s too cold, it will be lumpy. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Beat the cream cheese alone first until smooth before adding sugars and vanilla. This prevents any clumps.
- When folding in the whipped topping, do it gently to keep the mixture light and airy. Use a spatula and make sweeping motions to combine.
Taking these steps ensures a delightful texture that makes each bite heavenly!
How to Make No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Cream Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but you’ll need to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. So, while it’s quick to whip up, plan for some extra time to let it set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Crust:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Now, take this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a nice, even crust. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to help get it smooth and creamy—this is the base of your filling! Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Mixing in the Whipped Topping:
Now, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want everything to stay fluffy and light.
4. Adding the Pineapple:
Next, take the drained crushed pineapple and fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture. This will give your dessert that delicious tropical flavor. Just combine until you don’t see any more streaks of cream cheese.
5. Spreading the Mixture:
Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust in your baking dish. Use a spatula to make sure it’s smooth on top.
6. Garnishing (Optional):
If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top of the dessert for a lovely garnish and added flavor!
7. Chilling Time:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or if you can, let it sit overnight. This helps everything set and blend together beautifully.
8. Ready to Serve:
Once chilled, it’s time to cut your dessert into squares! Serve it cold and enjoy this refreshing no bake pineapple cream dessert with friends or family. Yum!
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers for the Crust?
Absolutely! While graham crackers are traditional, you can try using vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the crackers you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can substitute the whipped topping with 2 cups of heavy cream whipped to soft peaks with a tablespoon of sugar. This will give your dessert a rich and creamy texture, just like the store-bought version.
How Long Can I Store This Dessert?
You can store the no bake pineapple cream dessert in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh. If you want to make it in advance, it’s a great option for up to 2 days before serving!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used! Just ensure it’s finely chopped and that you squeeze out any excess juice before mixing it into the cream cheese mixture. This will help maintain the right consistency in your dessert.
