🍍 No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
📝 Description:
This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a tropical, creamy, and refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer or any time you want an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese-pineapple filling, and a whipped topping, it’s sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible—plus, no oven required!
🥣 Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
- Pineapple chunks or maraschino cherries (for garnish, optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan.
- Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly incorporated.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
- Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Gently spread the whipped topping over the filling.
4. Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for best texture and flavor.
5. Serve:
- Slice into squares, garnish with pineapple chunks or cherries, and serve chilled.
📌 Tips:
- Drain the pineapple well: Excess liquid can make the dessert soggy.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Chill time is key—give it enough time to set properly.
- Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist.
- Use a springform pan if you want cleaner edges and easy removal.
🍽 Servings:
Makes 9–12 servings, depending on the size of the squares.
🔍 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.):
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugars: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
(Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size)
🌿 Benefits:
- Quick and Easy: No baking, minimal cleanup.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different fruit or crusts.
- Cool & Refreshing: Ideal for hot weather.
- Great for Gatherings: Make-ahead and easy to serve.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: It’s not recommended unless it’s cooked first—fresh pineapple contains enzymes that may prevent the filling from setting properly.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives. Check for plant-based options at most stores.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 4–5 days, covered tightly.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Q: Can I add other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Mango, strawberries, or mandarin oranges are great additions—just ensure they’re well-drained.