No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert

Sharing is caring!

Looking for a quick and refreshing dessert that’s full of tropical flavor? This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is the perfect solution! With its creamy texture, hint of vanilla, and the sweet tang of pineapple, this easy dessert requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, want a simple treat after dinner, or just need something sweet to satisfy your cravings, this dessert delivers all the flavor with none of the hassle. Best of all, it’s a no-bake recipe, making it an ideal choice when you want something cool and delicious without turning on the oven.

The combination of cream cheese and pineapple creates a rich, smooth texture that’s both indulgent and light at the same time. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra touch of elegance. This dessert is bound to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion from summer barbecues to holiday dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
  The crushed pineapple adds the tropical fruit flavor and moisture to this dessert. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid that could affect the texture.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  Cream cheese brings richness and a smooth, creamy base to the dessert. It also pairs beautifully with the pineapple, balancing its sweetness with a slight tang.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  The sugar sweetens the mixture and enhances the natural flavors of the pineapple and cream cheese.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile, adding depth to the dessert and complementing both the pineapple and cream cheese.

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the best texture.

Step 2: Add Vanilla

Once the cream cheese and sugar are well combined, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir it in gently, and beat for an additional 30 seconds to ensure the vanilla is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pineapple

Now, fold in the 20 oz can of crushed pineapple, which has been well-drained. Be gentle as you mix it into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the creamy consistency. Ensure that the pineapple is evenly distributed without over-mixing, which could break down the pineapple pieces too much.

Step 4: Chill the Dessert

Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual dessert cups. Spread it out evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the dessert has set and chilled completely. For best results, you can refrigerate it overnight for a firmer texture.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, the dessert is ready to serve. You can garnish it with a dollop of whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, or even a cherry on top for a touch of color. Enjoy the refreshing and creamy tropical treat!

Variation

• Add a Crunch: For a bit of texture, consider adding crushed graham crackers or crushed cookies at the bottom of your serving dish to create a simple crust. This adds a slight crunch and extra flavor that complements the creamy filling.
• Tropical Twist: For a more tropical flavor, fold in some diced mango or coconut flakes into the mixture. You can also drizzle some coconut milk or lime juice over the top before serving for a more exotic touch.
• Make it Lighter: For a lower-calorie version, use light cream cheese and reduce the sugar, or substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese for added protein without compromising on creaminess.

Cooking Notes

• Cream Cheese Texture: Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the smoothest mixture. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps and make it difficult to mix with the sugar.
• Pineapple Drainage: Draining the pineapple well is crucial for the best texture. Excess liquid can make the dessert runny, so be sure to press out as much juice as possible before mixing it in.
• Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. It can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it an excellent choice for parties, picnics, or potlucks.

Serving Suggestions

• With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a can of whipped topping for extra creaminess and lightness.
• With Toasted Coconut: A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds a crunchy texture and a bit of nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
• Garnish with a Maraschino Cherry: For an extra pop of color and sweetness, garnish each serving with a maraschino cherry on top.
• As Part of a Tropical Dessert Table: Serve this dessert as part of a tropical-themed dessert spread, alongside other treats like coconut macaroons, key lime pie, or mango sorbet for a refreshing summer feast.

Tips

• Chill Time: For best results, allow the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours, but it will keep its texture better if refrigerated for longer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Sweetness: Taste the mixture before refrigerating it. Depending on your preference and the sweetness of the pineapple, you may want to add a little extra sugar.
• Customize: Add additional tropical fruits like kiwi, papaya, or passion fruit to customize the dessert and make it more exotic. You could even add a bit of lime zest for some zing.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

None (No baking required)

Total Time

2 hours (chill time)

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While canned pineapple is typically used for convenience, you can use fresh pineapple as long as you chop it finely and drain any excess juice. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Can I freeze this dessert?
This dessert is best served fresh or chilled in the fridge. Freezing may alter the creamy texture, so it’s not recommended for long-term storage. However, you can freeze individual portions and defrost them before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained, as coconut cream tends to have a richer, thicker consistency.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert is the perfect choice when you need a light, refreshing, and tropical treat with minimal effort. With its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and vibrant pineapple flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The best part? No oven required! Simply mix, chill, and enjoy. It’s an effortless dessert that brings the flavors of the tropics straight to your table in just a few easy steps. Perfect for summer parties, picnics, or any occasion that calls for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing treat.