There's nothing quite like a creamy, tropical dessert to end a meal on a high note, and this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert does just that! With layers of sweet pineapple, smooth cream, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this treat is as refreshing as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, holiday feasts, or whenever you crave a bit of sunshine in a dish.

I first made this dessert when looking for something quick yet impressive to bring to a family barbecue. With no need to turn on the oven, it was a simple, cool solution – and it was a hit! The balance of creamy and fruity layers makes it a favorite, and it’s easy enough that even beginner bakers can whip it up.

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

If you're a fan of creamy, fruit-filled desserts that don’t require a lot of fuss, this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is bound to be a new go-to.

First of all, this recipe is incredibly easy to put together. There’s no need to turn on the oven or use any fancy equipment – just a mixing bowl, a spatula, and a pan are all you need.

It’s also the perfect make-ahead dessert. Since it needs some time to chill and set, you can prepare it a day in advance and have it ready whenever you’re serving. Ideal for busy hosts!

With its tropical pineapple flavor and rich creaminess, it’s refreshing yet indulgent. This dessert is light enough to enjoy after a hearty meal yet satisfies any sweet cravings.

Plus, this recipe is versatile. If you don’t have pineapple on hand, you can easily swap it out for other canned fruits like peaches or mandarin oranges.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert are simple, but each one plays an important role in building the perfect texture and taste.

Graham Cracker Crumbs form the buttery crust that holds everything together. You can either crush whole graham crackers yourself or buy pre-crushed crumbs for convenience.

Butter is melted and mixed with the graham cracker crumbs to create the crust. Be sure to pack the crust tightly into the pan for a sturdy base that holds up when sliced.

Cream Cheese is the base of the creamy layer. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth, lump-free texture.

Crushed Pineapple brings in the sweet, tropical flavor. Drain it well before adding it to the cream layer to avoid excess liquid, which can make the dessert too soft.

Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip) adds lightness to the cream layer. It helps to stabilize the dessert and adds a lovely airy texture. You can use homemade whipped cream, but be aware that it may be slightly less stable over time.

How to Make This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Creating this creamy, tropical dessert is as easy as layering and chilling! Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

Start by preparing the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to create a solid base. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you make the filling.

Next, prepare the creamy pineapple layer. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This will prevent any lumps and make it easier to combine with other ingredients. Once creamy, fold in the drained crushed pineapple and whipped topping until everything is well blended.

Pour the pineapple cream mixture over the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly to the edges. Smooth the top with a spatula for a neat finish.

For a touch of extra pineapple flavor and a pretty presentation, you can sprinkle a few more spoonfuls of crushed pineapple over the top. This step is optional but adds a nice visual touch.

Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time helps the layers set and allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

When you’re ready to serve, slice the dessert into squares or scoop it out with a spoon. It’s delicious as is, or you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy finish.

Storage Options

This dessert stores well in the refrigerator, making it great for leftovers or meal prep. Here are some tips for storing:

In the Refrigerator: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, although the crust may soften slightly over time.
In the Freezer: For a firmer, more frozen dessert, you can freeze it! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just thaw it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to customize based on what you have or any dietary needs. Here are a few fun variations:

Use Different Fruits: Instead of crushed pineapple, try substituting with canned peaches, mangoes, or mandarin oranges for a twist on the flavor.
Swap the Crust: If you want a different base, try using crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits. This can add a different flavor and texture that works beautifully with the cream filling.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping for a lactose-free version. Just make sure to use a brand that holds up well when chilled.
Add Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut to the cream layer or sprinkle it on top for added tropical flair.

Get creative and make this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert your own! Each variation brings a new flavor profile, so don’t be afraid to experiment. With its simple, adaptable ingredients and refreshing taste, this dessert is sure to be a hit every time you serve it. Enjoy!