A creamy, cool dessert you didn’t know you needed.
This is the kind of recipe you make once… and then suddenly it’s requested at every gathering. No oven. No stress. Just layers that quietly transform in the fridge into something soft, sliceable, and completely irresistible.
🥥 Why This Recipe Works
- No baking required – perfect for warm days
- Minimal ingredients – pantry-friendly
- Make-ahead magic – better the next day
- Balanced sweetness – rich but not heavy
The graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture while the coconut cream mixture turns silky and dreamy.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup canned full-fat coconut milk
- 1 package graham crackers
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Optional (Highly Recommended)
- Toasted coconut for topping
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh berries
👩🍳 How to Make It
1️⃣ Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
This gives the dessert structure and fluffiness.
2️⃣ Make the Coconut Base
In another bowl, whisk:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Coconut milk
Until completely smooth.
3️⃣ Fold Together
Gently fold whipped cream into coconut mixture.
Do not overmix — keep it airy.
4️⃣ Layer the Magic
In a 9×13 dish:
- Thin layer of cream mixture
- Graham crackers
- Sprinkle shredded coconut
Repeat layers 2–3 times depending on dish depth.
Finish with cream layer on top.
5️⃣ Chill (The Important Part)
Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
Overnight is best.
This is when the transformation happens.
6️⃣ Finish & Serve
Top with toasted coconut just before serving.
Slice and serve cold.
🌴 Flavor Variations
- Add crushed pineapple (well drained)
- Swap for chocolate graham crackers
- Add lime zest for brightness
- Layer sliced strawberries between layers
- Use coconut extract for stronger coconut flavor
🔥 Pro Tips
- Use canned full-fat coconut milk
- Chill overnight for clean slices
- Toast coconut in a dry pan until golden
- Don’t freeze — texture changes
🧊 Storage
- Store covered in fridge up to 4 days
- Add toasted coconut topping just before serving
☕ Serving Ideas
Perfect with:
- Iced coffee
- Fresh berries
- Light summer dinners
- Potlucks and family gatherings
💛 Final Thoughts
It doesn’t look flashy.
But one bite in —
cool cream, soft graham layers, gentle coconut —
And suddenly the pan is empty.
Simple desserts have a quiet way of becoming favorites.
And this one?
It earns its place.
