No-bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe

There’s something magical about a dessert that requires no baking, especially when it's as refreshing and creamy as this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert. This treat combines the sweetness of pineapple with a light, whipped cream filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, making it an easy crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight indulgence, or whenever you want something sweet without turning on the oven.

I discovered this recipe during a hot summer when I was looking for a way to use up a can of pineapple chunks. It quickly became a family favorite, especially since it’s so easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients.

Why You'll Love This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Here’s what makes this Pineapple Cream Dessert truly special.

First, it’s unbelievably quick and simple. With no baking required, you can whip it up in about 15 minutes, let it chill, and have a refreshing dessert ready in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

It’s light and refreshing. The pineapple adds a tropical burst of flavor that makes each bite feel like a mini-vacation, balanced by the creaminess of the whipped filling and the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding coconut flakes for an extra tropical twist or even swap in other fruits like mango or peach for a fun variation.

Lastly, this dessert is a budget-friendly option. With just a few pantry ingredients, it’s an affordable way to create a treat that feels luxurious and special without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The simplicity of this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert lies in its handful of ingredients, each bringing a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Graham cracker crumbs form the base of the dessert, adding a deliciously crumbly texture that perfectly complements the creamy filling. You can either use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or make your own by crushing whole crackers in a food processor.

Butter helps hold the graham cracker crust together and adds a rich, buttery flavor. Melted butter binds the crumbs to form a stable base that holds up even when sliced.

Crushed pineapple is the star of this dessert. It adds a burst of sweetness and freshness that balances the creamy filling. Be sure to drain it well; excess liquid can make the filling too watery.

Cream cheese gives the filling a smooth and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the pineapple. Room temperature cream cheese blends more easily and results in a silky-smooth texture.

Whipped topping or freshly whipped cream adds lightness to the filling. If using whipped topping, let it thaw completely. For homemade whipped cream, make sure it’s whipped to soft peaks for the perfect consistency.

Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the filling without the grittiness of granulated sugar. It dissolves easily into the cream cheese, giving the filling a perfectly smooth, sweet flavor.

How To Make This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Creating this Pineapple Cream Dessert is a breeze, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to chill and enjoy.

Start by preparing the crust. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch square dish, creating a smooth, even layer. Place the crust in the fridge to set while you make the filling.

For the filling, grab a large mixing bowl and add the softened cream cheese. Beat it with an electric mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Then, add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until it’s fully incorporated, giving the filling a light sweetness.

Next, gently fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream, being careful not to deflate it too much. The whipped topping helps to make the filling light and airy, balancing the cream cheese’s richness.

Now, add the well-drained crushed pineapple to the cream mixture, folding it in until it’s evenly distributed. The pineapple pieces should be small enough to blend seamlessly with the creamy filling, adding bursts of tropical flavor with each bite.

Spread the pineapple cream filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even layer. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the filling is firm and set.

Storage Options

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

In the refrigerator, cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, although it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours when the flavors are at their peak.

For freezing, place the dessert in a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

To serve, cut into squares and garnish with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.

Variations and Substitutions

This Pineapple Cream Dessert is easy to adapt based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

For a tropical twist, add toasted coconut flakes on top or folded into the filling. This addition pairs beautifully with the pineapple and gives a hint of crunch.

Swap the pineapple for other fruits. Crushed mango or peach work well in this dessert, giving you a new flavor profile while keeping the same creamy texture.

If you prefer a slightly firmer filling, consider adding a little gelatin. Dissolve a teaspoon of gelatin in a tablespoon of warm water and fold it into the filling before spreading it over the crust.

For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the cream cheese. This gives a subtle tanginess and reduces the overall fat content without sacrificing creaminess.

If you like a sweeter crust, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the graham cracker crumbs before mixing with butter. It adds a hint of caramel flavor that complements the pineapple filling.

Experimenting with these variations can lead to exciting new versions of this classic recipe, so feel free to try out different flavors and textures.

Enjoy this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert as a deliciously cool treat that brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that friends and family will request time and again, and once you try it, you’ll see why!

Print