If you are craving something sweet, refreshing, and effortlessly delightful, this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the tropical brightness of crushed pineapple with a creamy, fluffy vanilla pudding and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert feels like sunshine on a plate. Best of all, it requires no oven time, making it perfect for warm days or last-minute gatherings. The cool, luscious texture and the hint of vanilla make each bite a pure pleasure that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but pack a flavorful punch. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.
- Crushed pineapple in juice (1 can, 20 oz): Provides tropical sweetness and juicy moisture, no draining required to keep the cream light.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): Adds that silky, classic vanilla flavor and thickens the dessert without cooking.
- Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): Brings a fluffy, dreamy texture to the pineapple cream, giving it volume and lightness.
- Graham crackers (about 9 full sheets, crushed): Make a crunchy, buttery base that perfectly contrasts the creamy topping.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Binds the cracker crumbs to form a sturdy, flavorful crust that holds everything together.
- Optional garnishes: Maraschino cherries or shredded coconut add pops of color and extra texture to make your dessert even more inviting.
How to Make No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the crushed graham crackers with melted butter, mixing until every crumb is coated and holds together well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan so that it forms an even, compact crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and set while you move on to the filling. This chilling step is crucial to ensure the crust stays crisp under the creamy topping.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Cream
In a large bowl, stir together the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice and the instant vanilla pudding mix. As the pudding absorbs the pineapple juice, it will start to thicken—this creates the flavorful, creamy base of your dessert. The sweetness and tanginess from the pineapple perfectly complement the smooth vanilla, so give it a good mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Whipped Topping
Carefully fold the thawed whipped topping into the pineapple-pudding mixture. The goal is to keep it light and airy, so gently combine until the mixture looks fluffy and inviting. This step is what transforms the filling from just creamy to cloud-like deliciousness, making every bite feel like a treat.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Now, spread the pineapple cream evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top for a clean, appealing finish. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least two hours to allow it to set completely. The cooling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully and gives the dessert a satisfying, sliceable texture.
How to Serve No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Think colorful and inviting when garnishing your dessert. Maraschino cherries add a classic pop of sweet jewel-toned color, while a sprinkle of shredded coconut brings texture and a tropical vibe that complements the pineapple. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon can also elevate the presentation and hint at extra layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with light, simple sides or beverages. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a crisp, citrusy sorbet to keep the meal feeling bright and balanced. A glass of sparkling lemonade or iced tea also complements the tropical notes in the pineapple cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve this dessert in elegant individual glass cups or mason jars, layering the crust and pineapple cream to show off the beautiful contrast. You can also make mini parfaits by alternating the cream with extra crushed graham crackers between layers for an interactive treat. Adding a fun paper umbrella or edible flowers on top amps up the tropical feel and makes your presentation Instagram-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your beautiful No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe is done, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every creamy, fruity bite.
Freezing
While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh from the fridge, you can freeze it for up to one month if needed. Just be sure to freeze it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Be aware that the texture might change slightly upon freezing, becoming less fluffy and more dense.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cream dessert, reheating is not recommended. It’s designed to be served chilled, and warming it up would cause the cream to lose its delicate texture and the crust to become soggy. Just enjoy it cold and refreshing!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple that’s been finely chopped can be a great substitute, but be sure to include some juice or add a small amount of water or pineapple juice to get enough moisture for the pudding to set properly.
What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed shortbread cookies work well to create a buttery, crumbly crust with great flavor.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this dessert?
Yes! You can look for dairy-free instant pudding mixes and whipped toppings made from coconut milk or other plant-based ingredients to keep this dessert just as fluffy and tasty without dairy.
How long does the dessert take to set?
It typically needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set well. If you want firmer slices, letting it chill for 4 hours or overnight is even better.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan or two pans to accommodate the extra dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for parties or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe has quickly become a cherished go-to for easy entertaining and everyday indulgence alike. Its bright pineapple flavor, creamy texture, and buttery crust combine for a dessert that feels special but comes together without any fuss. I hope you love making and sharing this as much as I do — it’s sure to brighten up any occasion with its tropical charm and simple delight.
Print
No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful no-bake pineapple cream dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy pineapple and vanilla pudding filling, topped with whipped topping. Perfectly chilled and garnished with maraschino cherries or shredded coconut, this easy-to-make treat is great for summer gatherings or a simple sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package graham crackers (about 9 full sheets), crushed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
Garnish (Optional)
- Maraschino cherries
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan to form the crust. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Pineapple Cream: In a large bowl, add the can of crushed pineapple along with its juice and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Stir the mixture until it thickens slightly and is well combined.
- Add Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the pineapple cream mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set fully. Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of shredded coconut if desired.
Notes
- Do not drain the crushed pineapple; the juice helps the pudding mix to thicken properly.
- Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed before folding it into the pudding mixture for the best texture.
- Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps it hold together better.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated for convenience.
- For a different twist, crushed nuts can be added to the crust mixture for extra crunch.
