Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Indulge in a creamy, no-bake Pineapple Dream Dessert Recipe that layers sweet tropical flavors with crunchy graham crackers—an easy, refreshing treat you’ll crave all summer long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven needed: stay cool while whipping up a dreamy, no-bake dessert.
- Ready in under 30 minutes (plus chilling!), so last-minute party prep is a breeze.
- Creamy layers of whipped cream and cream cheese balance juicy pineapple perfectly.
- Crunchy graham cracker base adds that satisfying bite you adore.
- Customizable for potlucks, family gatherings, or an after-dinner sweet fix.
- Sweet but not cloying—light enough for hot afternoons.
- Tropical vibes in every bite—think island breezes in dessert form.
- Crowd-pleasing dessert recipe that’s both elegant and easy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (about 200 g) graham cracker crumbs (sub with vanilla wafer crumbs if needed)
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free twist)
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened (full fat gives richest taste)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 – 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 2 Tbsp juice)
- 1 – 2 Tbsp granulated sugar (optional, adjust for pineapple sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Prepare the crust
In a medium bowl, stir graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt until moistened. Press firmly into a 9×9-inch pan’s bottom—use the base of a measuring cup for an even surface. Pop it in the fridge while you mix the filling. - Whip the cream
Grab a chilled bowl and whisk (or stand mixer)—beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla on medium-high until soft peaks form. Keep it light; you want it pillowy, not stiff. - Cream cheese layer
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with the reserved pineapple juice and extra vanilla until silky smooth. If the pineapple’s super tart, stir in 1 Tbsp granulated sugar. - Fold in whipped cream
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a rubber spatula and a lifting motion—this keeps it airy and light, like a cloud. - Layer pineapple
Evenly spread the cream cheese-whipped blend over the chilled crust. Next, spoon drained crushed pineapple in a single layer. Pat lightly to avoid leaks. - Top and chill
Spread remaining whipped cream over the pineapple. Smooth the top and cover tightly. Chill for at least 4 hours (overnight if you can)—the longer it rests, the more those flavors meld. - Serve and garnish
Right before serving, sprinkle extra graham crumbs or fresh pineapple chunks on top. Want a pop of color? Add toasted coconut or a few maraschino cherries. Slice into squares and watch smiles bloom.
Servings & Timing
- Yield: Makes about 12 bars (9×9 pan)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best texture)
- Total Time: ~4 hours 20 minutes (mostly hands-off)
Variations
- Coconut Dream: Swap half the graham crumbs for toasted coconut flakes.
- Lemon-Pineapple Twist: Add 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest to the cream cheese for a citrus zing.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free graham crackers and confirm no-bake status.
- Vegan Version: Substitute vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and dairy-free butter.
- Berry Boost: Layer sliced strawberries or blueberries over the pineapple.
- Boozy Bite: Stir 1 Tbsp rum or pineapple liqueur into the cream cheese mixture.
Storage & Reheating
- Store in fridge: Covered, up to 3 days—flavors stay bright.
- Freezer option: Freeze squares individually on a tray, then bag for up to 1 month; thaw 30 minutes before serving.
- No reheating needed—just remove from fridge and slice!
FAQs
Q: Can I skip the crust?
A: You sure can—just pile layers in pretty glasses for a parfait-style treat.
Q: Why drain the pineapple?
A: Prevents a soggy crust and watery filling—drain well, but reserve juice for flavor.
Q: My whipped cream collapsed—help!
A: Chill your bowl and whisk, then whip again slowly, adding a bit more sugar if needed.
Q: Is this dessert kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely—no alcohol, bright flavors, and fun textures everyone loves.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: Yes! Chop ripe pineapple, toss with 1 Tbsp sugar, let sit 10 minutes, then drain.
Q: How do I make it ahead?
A: Assemble the night before, then chill; it’ll be perfectly set by party time.
Q: Does it travel well?
A: Keep chilled in a cooler; it holds up nicely for picnics or potlucks.
Q: Nutritional info?
A: About 220 calories per bar—light enough for a summer treat.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Dream Dessert Recipe brings creamy, tropical bliss with zero baking stress—ideal for summer lunches, backyard parties, or anytime you need a sweet escape. Give it a whirl, then drop a comment below to share your favorite twist or sunny serving ideas!
Pineapple Dream Dessert Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 200 g
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted, or coconut oil
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar sifted
- 1-2 tsp vanilla extract
- 20 oz crushed pineapple drained (reserve juice)
- 1-2 Tbsp granulated sugar optional
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt; press into a 9×9-inch pan. Chill while you prepare the filling.
- In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Beat softened cream cheese with reserved pineapple juice and extra vanilla until smooth, adding granulated sugar if needed.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese blend to keep it light and airy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust, then top with an even layer of drained crushed pineapple.
- Smooth remaining whipped cream over the pineapple layer, cover tightly, and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Sprinkle extra graham crumbs, fresh pineapple chunks, or toasted coconut on top before slicing into bars.
Notes
Nutrition
