No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a cool, creamy, and refreshing treat that comes together without turning on the oven. With a buttery crumb crust, fluffy cream layer, and sweet pineapple topping, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want an easy make-ahead dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
-
No baking required
-
Light, creamy, and refreshing
-
Perfect for potlucks and holidays
-
Easy to make ahead
-
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
Crust
-
2 cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
-
½ cup melted butter
Cream Layer
-
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (or 2 cups whipped cream)
Pineapple Topping
-
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
-
1 (3 oz) package vanilla or pineapple instant pudding mix
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
2. Make the Cream Layer
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy. Spread evenly over chilled crust.
3. Prepare the Pineapple Layer
In another bowl, mix drained crushed pineapple with dry pudding mix until thickened. Spread gently over the cream layer.
4. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
5. Serve
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with toasted coconut or cherries if desired.
Tips for Best Results
-
Drain pineapple very well to prevent a runny dessert
-
Chill long enough for clean slices
-
Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture
-
Fold whipped topping gently to keep it fluffy
Variations
-
Coconut Pineapple: Add shredded coconut to crust or topping
-
Pineapple Cheesecake Style: Add lemon zest to cream layer
-
Tropical Twist: Top with sliced bananas or mandarin oranges
-
Individual Cups: Layer in glasses for party servings
Storage
-
Store covered in the refrigerator for 3–4 days
-
Not recommended for freezing
Serving Suggestions
-
Perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks
-
Serve after heavy meals for a light finish
-
Pair with iced tea or lemonade
Final Thoughts
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a simple, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, fruity, and cool, it’s the perfect dessert when you want something sweet without baking.