No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
If sunshine had a flavor, this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert would be it. It’s cool, creamy, refreshingly fruity, and so easy to whip up you might just find yourself making it on repeat. This dreamy dessert is a slice of tropical heaven with a buttery base, fluffy cream layers, and sweet, juicy pineapple in every bite.
Perfect for hot summer days, family gatherings, or when you just want a quick sweet fix without turning on the oven. Trust me one bite and you’ll be transported to a hammock on the beach with a breeze in your hair and not a care in the world.
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Works great as a light finish to a summer meal or a sweet potluck showstopper.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, pantry and fridge-friendly ingredients.
Quick and Easy: No oven, no problem! Minimal prep and chill time make this a breeze.
Customizable: Add coconut, nuts, or even a cherry on top for extra flair.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
This dessert is made with a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to make something magical:
Crushed Graham Crackers
The perfect base buttery, sweet, and with a slight crunch that gives structure and flavor.
Melted Butter
Holds the crust together and adds a rich, golden touch.
Cream Cheese
Smooth, tangy, and the creamy backbone of the filling.
Powdered Sugar
Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip)
Light, airy, and essential for that mousse-like texture.
Crushed Pineapple (drained)
Bright, juicy, and tropical — the star flavor of the whole dessert.
Vanilla Extract
A subtle touch that enhances all the flavors and ties everything together.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
No preheating needed here! That’s the beauty of a no-bake dessert.
Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to create the crust. Pop it in the fridge while you make the filling.
Assemble the Dish
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy. Fold in the whipped topping gently, then stir in the drained crushed pineapple.
Cook to Perfection
No cooking needed just spoon the cream mixture over the chilled crust and smooth it out evenly.
Finishing Touches
Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait!) so it sets properly and all the flavors meld together.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice into squares and serve cold. Optional: top with more whipped cream, pineapple chunks, or toasted coconut if you’re feeling extra.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 220
(Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
How to Serve No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top
- Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra tropical vibe
- Pair with iced tea or lemonade for the ultimate summer treat
- Cut into mini squares for party-ready finger desserts
- Drizzle with a bit of white chocolate or pineapple syrup for a fancy twist
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing
- Fully drain the pineapple to avoid a watery filling
- Chill longer for firmer slices overnight is best if you can wait
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a little crunch
- Use parchment paper for easy lifting and slicing from the dish
FAQ’s
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s finely chopped and well-drained to avoid extra moisture.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling overnight.
3. Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, but the texture might change slightly after thawing. Best served fresh from the fridge.
4. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Sure! Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and folded in gently.
5. What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
Crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies all work well.
6. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.
7. Do I have to use powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is best for a smooth texture, but superfine sugar can work too.
8. Can I use pineapple tidbits instead of crushed?
Crushed works best for texture, but finely chopped tidbits can be used in a pinch.
9. Can I serve it right after assembling?
It really needs to chill for a few hours to set properly patience pays off here!
10. Can I add other fruits to this dessert?
Totally! Try adding mandarin oranges or strawberries for a fun twist.
Conclusion
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is your new go-to when you want something light, luscious, and impossibly easy. With just a few ingredients and no oven time, it’s perfect for those days when you need a quick win in the kitchen. One bite and you’ll be hooked so get that mixing bowl ready, chill your forks, and treat yourself to a slice of tropical bliss!
Print
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This light and creamy no-bake pineapple dessert is layered with crushed pineapple, whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
- Optional topping: additional whipped topping or toasted coconut
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in whipped topping and drained crushed pineapple until evenly mixed.
- Spread the cream mixture over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Top with extra whipped topping or toasted coconut before serving if desired.
Notes
- Make sure pineapple is very well drained to prevent a soggy filling.
- For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping.
- Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
- This dessert is great made ahead for potlucks or summer barbecues.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: pineapple dessert, no-bake cream dessert, pineapple cream bars, tropical dessert, summer treat