There's nothing quite like the refreshing taste of pineapple in a creamy, no-bake dessert. This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a tropical treat that’s perfect for summer, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want something sweet yet light. With layers of pineapple-infused cream and a buttery graham cracker crust, it's a breeze to make and absolutely irresistible.

I first came across this recipe while looking for an easy dessert that didn’t require turning on the oven. It’s now one of our go-to favorites, especially when I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dish. Let’s dive in and see why you’ll fall in love with this tropical delight.

Why You'll Love This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Prepare to be wowed by the simplicity and flavor of this dessert. Here are a few reasons why it’s guaranteed to become a favorite:

First, it’s a no-bake dessert – perfect for those hot days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Just a few simple steps, and it’s ready to chill in the fridge, making it a low-fuss, high-reward treat.

This dessert is incredibly refreshing. The pineapple adds a hint of tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, making every bite feel like a mini vacation.

It’s a family-friendly treat! Kids and adults alike will love the layers of cream and pineapple. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the sweetness, so you can make it to everyone’s taste.

Lastly, it’s versatile and can be made ahead. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight treat or a gathering, this dessert can be made in advance, saving you time on the big day.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients in this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert are simple, but each plays a big role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look:

Graham Cracker Crust: This classic crust is made with crushed graham crackers and melted butter, giving it a buttery, crumbly texture that complements the creamy filling. If you prefer, you can use a store-bought crust to save time.
Crushed Pineapple: Using canned crushed pineapple keeps things simple and adds just the right level of sweetness. Be sure to drain it well; excess juice can make the filling too runny.
Cream Cheese: The base of the cream layer, cream cheese gives a rich, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pineapple. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): This adds fluffiness and lightness to the dessert. If you’d prefer a more natural option, you can substitute with homemade whipped cream.
Powdered Sugar: Just a touch of powdered sugar sweetens the cream layer without making it overly sweet. It also blends seamlessly with the cream cheese for a smooth texture.

You won’t need any special equipment for this recipe – just a mixing bowl, a spatula, and an 8x8-inch baking dish or pie pan. Simple yet effective for creating this no-bake masterpiece.

How To Make This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Creating this cool and creamy dessert couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Start by making the crust. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of crushed graham crackers with ½ cup of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish or pie pan to form an even crust layer. Place it in the fridge to set while you make the filling.

Next, prepare the creamy pineapple layer. In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.

Now, fold in 8 ounces of whipped topping (like Cool Whip) and gently stir in the drained crushed pineapple. Be sure to fold carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy.

Once the filling is ready, spread it evenly over the graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for a nice, even layer.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until the dessert is set. This chill time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

Before serving, you can add a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs on top or garnish with a few pineapple tidbits for an added pop of color.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers of this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert, don’t worry – it stores beautifully!

In the Fridge: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first two days for peak freshness.
In the Freezer: If you’d like to keep it for longer, this dessert can also be frozen. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. The texture may be slightly softer, but it’ll still be delicious.

For reheating, this dessert doesn’t require any cooking – just slice and serve straight from the fridge. If frozen, let it thaw fully before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This no-bake dessert is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment! Here are some ideas to customize it:

Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the filling for an extra tropical flair. You can also top the dessert with toasted coconut flakes for a crunchy topping.
Berry Blend: Replace half of the pineapple with fresh or frozen berries for a mixed fruit version. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries work beautifully in this dessert.
Nutty Addition: Add a layer of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the crust. The crunch adds a lovely contrast to the creamy filling.
Lemon Zest: Add a hint of zest from a fresh lemon into the filling to enhance the flavors with a subtle citrus note.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers if you’re serving this to guests with dietary restrictions. It’s an easy switch that keeps the dessert gluten-free without compromising taste.

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is a flexible recipe that welcomes a little creativity. Feel free to make it your own and try new variations – you might discover a new favorite!