This No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a sweet, refreshing treat that comes together in no time! With layers of creamy goodness and juicy pineapple, it’s perfect for hot days.
Who needs an oven when you can whip up something so tasty without the heat? I love serving this chilled, and it’s a surefire hit at parties. Trust me; it disappears fast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are the base for your crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers can work well as substitutes.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the dessert its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whipped cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds lightness and volume to the dessert. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can use half-and-half or whipped topping, but the texture will be slightly different.
Pineapple: Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid a soggy dessert. You can use fresh pineapple or canned for convenience. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you could try peaches or strawberries instead.
Coconut: Shredded coconut adds a fun texture. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out, or toast some for an extra flavor kick!
How Do I Whip Heavy Cream to Stiff Peaks?
Whipping heavy cream can seem tricky, but it’s all about the technique. Aim for a cold mixing bowl for the best results. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with chilled heavy cream and a cold bowl. This helps it whip faster.
- Use a handheld mixer or a stand mixer on medium-high speed.
- Whip until soft peaks form (when you lift the beaters, peaks will hold but fall back slightly).
- Keep going until stiff peaks form (the peaks will stand tall). Don’t overwhip, or it can turn into butter!
This whipped cream will give your dessert its light and airy texture. Enjoy the process!
How to Make No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Additional pineapple pieces for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This No Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert takes about 20 minutes of prep time and requires at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge. It’s a refreshing treat that you can easily prepare ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to create a solid crust. Once done, set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This will create a nice base for your dessert.
3. Add Pineapple:
Add the drained crushed pineapple to your cream cheese mixture and stir it in until it’s evenly distributed. This will add a lovely, fruity flavor to your dessert!
4. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This means the cream will hold its shape well, which will give your dessert a light texture.
5. Combine Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pineapple and cream cheese mixture, making sure everything is combined well but trying to keep the fluffiness of the whipped cream. This will create a light and airy filling.
6. Assemble the Dessert:
Pour the creamy mixture over the graham cracker crust in your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is where all the deliciousness starts to come together!
7. Add the Topping:
If you’d like, sprinkle shredded coconut on top for extra flavor and texture. It adds a fun tropical taste!
8. Chill:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is fully set. This is the hardest part—waiting for it to chill!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, feel free to garnish with additional pineapple pieces if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy this refreshing dessert—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Types of Crust Instead of Graham Crackers?
Absolutely! You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even digestive biscuits. Just make sure to adjust the butter and sugar amounts accordingly to match the sweetness and texture of your chosen crumb base!
How Can I Make This Dessert Lighter in Calories?
You can lighten this dessert by using low-fat cream cheese and whipping cream. Alternatively, you could substitute the heavy whipping cream with whipped coconut cream for a lower-calorie option. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly!
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Long Do They Last?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just cover the dessert tightly to prevent it from drying out. To keep it fresh, you can add the coconut topping just before serving.
Is There a Way to Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This no-bake dessert is perfect for making a day ahead. Prepare it as usual, refrigerate, and let the flavors meld overnight. Just garnish with fresh pineapple or coconut right before serving for the best presentation!
