This No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a refreshing treat that layers sweet pineapple with fluffy cream and crunchy graham crackers. It’s super easy to whip up—no oven needed!
I love how light and tropical this dessert is! It’s perfect for hot days, and I can’t resist sneaking spoonfuls of that creamy goodness while waiting for it to chill! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dessert. If you want a lighter option, use whipped topping. For dairy-free, consider coconut cream for a coconut flavor boost.
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to blend well. If you need a vegan option, you can try using cashew cream or block-style vegan cream cheese. I’ve found they work nicely!
Crushed Pineapple: Drain it well to avoid a soggy dessert. If you want to switch it up, fresh pineapple chunks or even mandarin oranges could be fun alternatives.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or even crushed nuts as a crust. I sometimes double the coconut for an added flavor twist!
Optional Coconut: Toasted coconut adds a delicious flavor. If you’re not a fan, just leave it out. I find the texture it brings is worth it, though!
How Do I Get a Smooth Cream Cheese Mixture?
Beating the cream cheese with the powdered sugar is key to a smooth filling. Here’s how:
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this helps it blend easily.
- Use an electric mixer and beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated for a delightfully sweet base.
Taking these steps ensures there are no lumps, resulting in a velvety texture in your dessert!
How to Make No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipped topping
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Crust:
- 1 package (9 oz) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Garnish (optional):
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut
- Additional pineapple chunks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours in the fridge to set. So, you’ll spend a little bit of time mixing and layering everything, and then just let it chill to become beautifully firm and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the tasty base of your dessert!
2. Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, pour in the heavy cream or whipped topping, and whip it until it’s fluffy. You want it to hold its shape. Once it’s fluffy, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate it; you want to keep that light and airy texture!
3. Add Pineapple and Coconut:
Now, stir in the drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut (if you like it). Make sure everything is mixed well but still nice and fluffy.
4. Prepare the Crust:
In a different bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix them until all the crumbs are coated with butter. This will be the crunchy base for your dessert!
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom to create an even crust. Then, spread the pineapple cream mixture over the crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Chill and Garnish:
If you want, you can sprinkle toasted coconut and extra pineapple chunks on top for a beautiful finish. Now, cover the dessert with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until it’s set firm.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s set, slice it into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing no-bake pineapple cream dessert!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pineapple, just make sure to chop it into small pieces and drain any excess juice to prevent your dessert from becoming runny. You can also blend the fresh pineapple a bit if you want a smoother texture similar to the crushed canned pineapple.
What If I Don’t Have Graham Crackers?
No problem at all! You can substitute the graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even crushed pretzels for a unique twist. Just ensure the alternative is similar in texture and can form a crust when mixed with butter.
Can I Make This Dessert Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative, use powdered sugar (which is typically vegan), replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan whipped topping, and select a vegan butter for the crust. Just be mindful of the ingredients in your graham crackers, as some may contain honey or dairy.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it well-covered to maintain its freshness and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge.
