This Light and Creamy Dessert with Pineapple and a Buttery Crust is a delightful, no-bake treat that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a smooth, creamy filling, all sitting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is refreshingly light yet rich in flavor, offering a sweet contrast to more indulgent baked goods. The simplicity of the ingredients and ease of preparation make it a great choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more festive gatherings.

The graham cracker crust provides a crispy, buttery base that perfectly complements the velvety cream cheese filling, while the crushed pineapple adds a tangy and juicy burst of flavor. Topped with whipped cream, this dessert is indulgent without being overly heavy. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a summer party, or simply to enjoy as a treat at home, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It requires no baking, making it incredibly easy to whip up and refrigerate, ready to be served whenever you’re ready to indulge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

This dessert is simple to prepare with no baking involved, making it perfect for beginners or busy cooks.

2. Light and Refreshing

The pineapple and whipped topping give the dessert a light, refreshing flavor that won’t weigh you down.

3. Perfect for Summer

This chilled dessert is ideal for hot days when you don’t want to heat up the oven but still crave something sweet and satisfying.

4. Crowd-Pleasing

With its sweet and creamy texture, this dessert is sure to be a hit at parties, family gatherings, and holidays.

5. Customizable

You can adjust the sweetness or add more fruit if you prefer a more vibrant tropical flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, well-drained

For the Topping:

1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Add More Fruit: You can mix in other fruits like coconut flakes or mango to enhance the tropical flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust gluten-free.
Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crust for an extra crunch.
Lime Zest: For a more vibrant flavor, add a teaspoon of lime zest to the filling to complement the pineapple.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well-combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Refrigerate while preparing the filling to allow it to set.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and combine evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

Spread the pineapple filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Top with the thawed whipped topping, smoothing it into an even layer.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until the filling has set. Before serving, optionally garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs for an added touch of texture.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Drain the Pineapple Well: Be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the filling, which can cause the crust to become soggy.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother filling.
Chill Long Enough: For the best results, allow the dessert to chill for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets properly.

How to Serve

Serve this Light and Creamy Pineapple Dessert chilled, as it’s most refreshing when cold. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a light summer drink, like iced tea or lemonade. For an extra indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dessert isn’t ideal for freezing due to the whipped topping, but the crust and filling could be frozen separately. If freezing, it’s best to serve the dessert fresh.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so it doesn’t need to be reheated. Simply remove it from the fridge and serve!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Canned crushed pineapple is recommended for this recipe because it’s easier to drain and mix. Fresh pineapple can be used, but make sure it’s finely chopped and well-drained.

2. Can I use a different crust?

Yes, you can use a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

3. How long should I refrigerate the dessert?

For best results, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully set.

4. Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, powdered sugar substitutes can be used if you need a lower-sugar version.

6. How can I make the topping more firm?

If you prefer a firmer topping, you can fold in some additional whipped cream or use a stabilizer for whipped cream.

7. Can I add coconut to the filling?

Yes, shredded coconut can be mixed into the filling to add texture and enhance the tropical flavor.

8. Is this dessert gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

9. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

10. Can I freeze this dessert?

While the topping may not freeze well, the crust and filling can be frozen. It’s best to serve fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Light and Creamy Pineapple Dessert with Buttery Crust is the perfect no-bake treat for any occasion. With its refreshing pineapple flavor, smooth cream cheese filling, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your tastes, and incredibly satisfying. Whether for a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, this dessert will surely become a go-to favorite.