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No-Bake Pineapple Dream Dessert Recipe


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4.2 from 42 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A refreshing, no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy pineapple filling, whipped topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with toasted coconut and pecans. Perfect for a light, tropical treat that requires minimal prep and refrigeration time.


Ingredients

Crust

  • 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (divided)
  • 1/2 cup pecans (finely processed in a food processor)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup butter (softened to room temperature)
  • 2 1/3 cups powdered sugar
  • 20 ounce can crushed pineapple (drained very well, divided)
  • 1 lime (zested and juiced)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut extract

Topping

  • 8 ounce container frozen whipped topping (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
  • Remaining graham cracker crumb mixture (from crust)


Instructions

  1. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, finely processed pecans, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Press into pan: Transfer 2 cups of the crumb mixture to a 9 x 9 inch square baking dish and firmly press it into the bottom to create the crust layer.
  3. Chill: Refrigerate the pressed crust for 15 minutes to set. Set aside the remaining crumb mixture for the topping.
  4. Make the filling: In the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until creamy and smooth.
  5. Add sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat on low to medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined, stopping occasionally to scrape down the bowl sides and bottom.
  6. Add pineapple and lime: Stir in a heaping tablespoon of the well-drained crushed pineapple, lime juice, lime zest, and coconut extract until evenly mixed.
  7. Spread the mixture: Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the chilled graham cracker crust layer in the baking dish.
  8. Mix the whipped topping: In a separate bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping with the remaining crushed pineapple and shredded unsweetened coconut. Stir well until fully incorporated.
  9. Spread the topping: Gently spread the whipped topping mixture over the cream cheese layer using the back of a spoon for an even layer.
  10. Add topping crumb: Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumb mixture evenly over the top of the whipped topping layer.
  11. Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and set properly.
  12. Serve: Slice into 9 servings and serve chilled for a cool and creamy pineapple dream dessert experience.

Notes

  • Ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture in the dessert.
  • Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.
  • Allow the dessert to chill long enough to set properly, ideally overnight for best flavor and texture.
  • This dessert is best served cold and stored in the refrigerator.
  • For added flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the whipped topping mixture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American