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
Scale
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.
