Heavenly No-Bake Tropical Delight
If you love creamy, chilled desserts that taste like summer, this Pineapple Cream Dessert (often called Pineapple Lush or Pineapple Dream) is for you. It layers a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese filling, and a sweet pineapple topping — finished with golden toasted coconut.
No oven. No stress. Just chill, slice, and serve.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
Servings: 12 squares
Skill Level: Easy
Make-Ahead Friendly: Yes
Ingredients & Purpose
1️⃣ The Crunchy Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Classic buttery base with slight sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Binds crumbs and creates firm crust.
¼ cup granulated sugar (optional)
Enhances sweetness if crumbs are not sweet.
2️⃣ The Creamy Filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Creates rich, tangy base.
1 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping)
Whips into airy, mousse-like texture.
½ cup powdered sugar
Sweetens smoothly without graininess.
1 tsp vanilla extract
Adds warmth and depth.
3️⃣ The Pineapple Layer
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, very well drained
Provides bright, tropical flavor.
1 (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix (dry)
Thickens pineapple layer without baking.
½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Balances pineapple’s acidity.
4️⃣ Garnish
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut, lightly toasted
Adds texture and nutty sweetness.
Optional: whipped cream for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
Press firmly into a 9×13-inch dish.
Refrigerate 20–30 minutes to set.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer
In large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix well.
In separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.
Spread evenly over chilled crust.
Return to refrigerator.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Layer
Drain pineapple thoroughly (this is crucial).
In bowl, mix pineapple, pudding mix (dry), and sugar.
Stir until thickened.
Spread gently over cream layer.
Step 4: Add Coconut Topping
Sprinkle toasted coconut evenly on top.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Texture & Flavor Profile
Crust: Buttery and firm
Middle: Light, fluffy, cheesecake-like
Top: Sweet, tangy pineapple
Finish: Toasted coconut crunch
It’s creamy yet refreshing — never heavy.
Common Problems & Fixes
Dessert too soft:
Pineapple wasn’t drained enough.
Runny filling:
Cream not whipped to stiff peaks.
Crust crumbly:
Press more firmly and chill longer.
Variations
Tropical Upgrade
Add crushed macadamia nuts to topping.
Lighter Version
Use light cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Extra Citrus
Add 1 tsp lemon zest to cream layer.
Coconut Lovers
Fold ¼ cup coconut into cream layer.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store covered up to 4 days.
Not ideal for freezing (texture changes).
Why This Recipe Works
- Instant pudding stabilizes fruit layer
- Whipped cream keeps filling airy
- Chilling allows layers to set firmly
- No baking preserves fresh pineapple flavor
Final Thoughts
Pineapple Cream Dessert is the kind of nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that disappears fast at gatherings. It’s light enough for summer, rich enough for holidays, and easy enough for beginners.
Chill it. Slice it. Watch it vanish.
