This Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a sweet treat that combines fluffy cream and tangy pineapple. It’s cool, refreshing, and perfect for hot days!
I love how quick it is to make—just mix the ingredients and chill! It’s great for gatherings, and I might just grab a spoon and enjoy it right from the fridge! 🍍😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These provide the crunchy base for the dessert. If you can’t find graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies. Both add a nice sweetness!
Cream Cheese: For a rich and creamy texture, cream cheese is key. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese or a vegan cream cheese available at many grocery stores.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is popular here for ease, but you can substitute homemade whipped cream if you prefer. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds flavor and texture. If you want to lower sugar, consider using unsweetened coconut or skipping it altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Crust?
Making the crust is simple but crucial for the texture of your dessert. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by crushing the graham crackers in a zip-top bag or food processor until they’re fine crumbs.
- Mix the crumbs thoroughly with melted butter, ensuring every crumb is coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan. Use your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it well, so it holds together when sliced.
A solid crust will give your dessert the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess!
Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
Optional Toppings:
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional for topping)
- 1/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus at least 4 hours of chilling. The chilling is what helps the layers firm up, so it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by mixing the crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until all the cracker crumbs are moistened. Then, firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×9 inch square pan to create a sturdy crust. Make sure it’s packed well so it holds together when you cut the dessert later. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling:
In a large bowl, take the softened cream cheese and beat it with powdered sugar using a hand mixer or a whisk until it’s smooth and creamy. This will give you a rich texture that’s perfect for the filling!
3. Combine the Whipped Topping and Pineapple:
Gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula until everything is well combined, making sure not to deflate the fluffy texture. Next, stir in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed. This adds a refreshing taste and a bit of tang!
4. Assemble the Dessert:
Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust you made earlier. Feel free to smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
5. Garnish and Chill:
If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some pineapple chunks on top and add shredded coconut. Now, cover the dessert and pop it in the fridge! Let it chill for at least 4 hours (or even overnight) so it can set perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled and firm, slice the dessert into squares and serve it cold. It’s perfect for a hot day or any gathering—refreshing, creamy, and absolutely delicious!
This Easy No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is sure to be a hit with its creamy, tangy filling over a crunchy crust, topped with pineapple and coconut for that tropical twist! Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!
What Can I Use Instead of Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can easily substitute whipped topping with freshly whipped cream. Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will add a lovely, fresh flavor to your dessert!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the crust may soften a bit over time, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Dessert?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in or swap out fruits like diced strawberries, peaches, or mandarin oranges along with the pineapple. Just make sure to drain any fruit that’s packed in juice to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
