This No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is light and refreshing, perfect for warm days! With creamy layers and sweet pineapple bits, it’s a treat you won’t forget.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dessert that requires no baking? Just mix, layer, and chill! I love serving it at parties; it always disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These create a delightful base. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free cookies or oats as a substitute.
Cream Cheese: It gives a rich flavor and texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative if you want fewer calories. Greek yogurt is another option for a tangy twist!
Whipped Topping: The lightness of whipped topping is great here. If you prefer homemade, you can whip cream with a bit of sugar to make your own. Use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This helps thicken the dessert. If you can’t find it, you can use a similar flavor or create a custard using cornstarch and eggs.
Coconut: It adds texture and flavor. Feel free to omit it if you’re not a fan or replace it with sliced almonds for a different crunch!
How Do I Make the Perfect Crust?
The crust is a key part of this dessert, and getting it right is pretty simple! Start by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Aim for a damp sand consistency. If it holds together when pressed, you’re good to go.
- Use a measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass to firmly press the mixture into the baking dish. This helps it stay together!
- Don’t rush—make sure it’s even for a sturdy base.
- Let it chill briefly after pressing; this helps it set better before adding the filling.
How to Make No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Cream Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups milk
For Garnish (optional):
- Shredded coconut
- Additional pineapple chunks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare. After mixing, you will need to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let it set perfectly. With minimal active cooking time, it’s easy and incredibly refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir well until all the crumbs look moist, like wet sand. Once mixed, press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish to form a nice crust. Set your crust aside for now.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until it’s fully combined and fluffy. Now, gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is mixed nicely together.
3. Mix in the Pineapple and Pudding:
In another bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the milk for about 2 minutes or until it starts to thicken up a bit. Now, fold this pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Finally, gently mix in the drained crushed pineapple until it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Assemble and Chill:
Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over your graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, cover the baking dish and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or if you can, let it chill overnight for best results.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can garnish with some shredded coconut and extra pineapple chunks if you like. Cut the dessert into squares and enjoy your refreshing No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert chilled. Yum!
Can I Use Another Type of Crust If I Don’t Have Graham Crackers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed shortbread cookies as an alternative. Just make sure to adjust the sugar content slightly for the different sweetness levels of the substitutes!
How Can I Make This Dessert Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this dessert dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy whipped topping, like coconut whipped cream. Additionally, substitute the milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk of your choice. The flavor will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Dessert?
Yes, definitely! You can mix in other fruits like diced strawberries or banana slices for extra flavor. Just be sure to keep the fruit dry to avoid adding too much moisture to the mixture, which may affect the texture when setting!
