Image Credit : 8Recipes
Hello, dessert enthusiasts! Get ready to make a dreamy, creamy, and absolutely delightful No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert. This is a perfect treat for any occasion, and the best part? You don’t even need to turn on the oven. Let’s dive into this tropical paradise step-by-step.
Ingredients:
**For the Crust:**
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
**For the Filling:**
– 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained well
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
**For the Topping:**
– Extra whipped cream or whipped topping
– Chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)
– Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. **Combine Ingredients:**
– In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
– Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
2. **Form the Crust:**
– Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
– Pop it into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling. This ensures a nice, firm crust.
#### Step 2: Make the Filling
1. **Beat the Cream Cheese:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for a smooth filling.
2. **Add Sweetness and Flavor:**
– Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese.
– Continue beating until well combined.
3. **Incorporate Pineapple:**
– Stir in the well-drained 20 oz can of crushed pineapple. Make sure it’s well-drained to prevent a watery filling.
4. **Fold in the Whipped Cream:**
– Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped cream or whipped topping. Be careful not to overmix to keep the filling light and airy.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
1. **Spread the Filling:**
– Take the crust out of the refrigerator.
– Spread the pineapple and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
– Smooth the top with a spatula to make it nice and even.
#### Step 4: Chill
1. **Refrigerate:**
– Place the dessert back in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the filling sets properly.
#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. **Add Toppings:**
– Before serving, top with additional whipped cream or whipped topping.
– Sprinkle with chopped nuts for a bit of crunch, and add maraschino cherries for a classic touch if desired.
2. **Serve:**
– Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your no-bake pineapple cream dessert with friends and family!
### Tips and Tricks
– **Drain Well:** Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid a watery dessert.
– **Chill Time:** Allowing the dessert to chill overnight gives the best results in terms of texture and flavor.
– **Graham Crackers:** For a different twist, you can use different types of cookie crumbs like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for the crust.
There you have it! A no-bake dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Enjoy the tropical flavors and the creamy, dreamy texture. Happy no-baking! 🌴🍍
