There's nothing quite like the refreshing taste of pineapple in a creamy, no-bake dessert. This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert combines layers of tropical sweetness with a light, velvety cream that melts in your mouth. Perfect for summer gatherings or when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing treat, this dessert is always a hit.

I discovered this recipe years ago, searching for a dessert that wouldn’t require turning on the oven in the middle of summer. Since then, it’s become a family favorite, and I can guarantee it’ll be a winner in your home, too!

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

Prepare to fall in love with this easy, indulgent dessert! This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert brings together simplicity, flavor, and convenience in one delicious dish.

First of all, it’s incredibly easy to make. With no baking required, you can put this dessert together without heating up the kitchen, making it ideal for warm days or busy weeknights.

It’s a delightfully light and refreshing dessert, thanks to the combination of whipped cream, cream cheese, and crushed pineapple. Every spoonful is smooth, sweet, and satisfyingly tropical.

This recipe also requires just a handful of ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself at home.

Best of all, this dessert can be made ahead of time! Pop it in the fridge to chill, and it’ll be ready to serve whenever you need it – no last-minute fuss required.

Ingredients Notes

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is all about simple ingredients that create a fantastic end result. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that tropical, creamy goodness we all crave.

Crushed Pineapple: Using canned crushed pineapple is not only convenient, but it also provides the perfect amount of juice to add flavor and moisture to this dessert. Make sure to drain it well to avoid making the dessert too wet.
Cream Cheese: For that tangy richness, softened cream cheese works wonders in this dessert. It balances the sweetness and gives the dessert a velvety texture.
Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip): Using a store-bought whipped topping adds a light, airy texture that keeps this dessert soft and fluffy. If you prefer, you can whip up your own heavy cream with a bit of sugar to achieve a similar effect.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These serve as the base of the dessert, adding a lovely crunch and a touch of sweetness. If you like, you could also substitute crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies.
Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a firm and slightly salty crust that complements the sweetness of the filling.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, just a mixing bowl, a hand mixer, and an 8x8-inch baking dish.

How to Make This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

This delicious dessert comes together with just a few simple steps. Let me guide you through the process for best results.

Make the Crust: Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch pan, using the back of a spoon to create a firm base. Pop the pan into the fridge to let the crust set while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cream Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy. Once combined, gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and airy.
Add the Pineapple: Next, gently fold in the crushed pineapple. Be careful not to overmix – you want to keep the filling nice and fluffy. Make sure your pineapple is thoroughly drained, so the filling isn’t too wet.
Assemble the Dessert: Spread the pineapple cream filling evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even layer, making it look as pretty as it tastes!
Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the dessert is set. The longer it chills, the better the flavors come together, so if you can, let it sit overnight.

This dessert takes about 15 minutes to prep and a couple of hours to chill, making it the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.

Storage Options

This dessert is easy to store, making it great for leftovers or making ahead.

Refrigerator: Store the dessert in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. If you’re making it in advance, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: You can also freeze this dessert for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. It will last up to 1 month in the freezer. Before serving, thaw in the refrigerator for several hours.
Individual Portions: For easy grab-and-go servings, consider dividing the dessert into single-serving containers. This way, you can take one out as needed without defrosting the whole dessert.

To reheat, simply enjoy cold straight from the fridge – no heating required!

Variations and Substitutions

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ideas for changing things up:

Add Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the cream layer for extra tropical flavor. Toasted coconut is especially delicious here!
Swap the Fruit: While pineapple is classic, you can switch it up by using canned peaches, mandarin oranges, or even fresh strawberries. Just make sure any fruit you use is well-drained.
Use a Different Crust: Graham cracker crust is traditional, but you could use crushed shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even a chocolate cookie crust to add a new flavor element.
Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping. Most stores carry coconut-based or almond-based whipped toppings that work well here.
Add a Drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle a little caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with flavors and textures until it’s just the way you like it. I hope you enjoy this delightful No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert as much as we do!