If in the mood for a delightfully tasty and refreshing dessert that does not require baking, this would just be the best option with the name of a No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert. For hot weather, family gatherings, or simply a sweet craving, this dessert is lovely and creamy with that summery flavor. It will be fun to put together layers of crushed graham crackers, a creamy concoction that comprises cream cheese and whipped toppings, and some sweet chunks of pineapple-yummier when made earlier for immediate mouthwatering convenience.
Let’s get into a super-duper simple, straightforward way of going from prepared ingredients to something yummy that is called Pineapple Cream dessert recipe!
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Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full crackers)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 1/4 cup of juice)
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Form the Base Layer: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking dish or an 8-inch round pie dish to form an even crust layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a flat glass to press the crumbs down firmly.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cream filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Cream Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, beating until fully combined and fluffy.
- Fold in the Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and the reserved pineapple juice. Mix until the pineapple is evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate the Whipped Topping: Fold in the whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
- Spread the Filling: Remove the graham cracker crust from the refrigerator and spread the pineapple cream filling evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.
- Chill to Set: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Add Garnishes: Before serving, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top for extra flavor and texture, if desired. Add maraschino cherries and fresh mint leaves for a decorative touch.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the dessert into squares or slices and serve chilled. Enjoy this creamy, refreshing treat!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve: Serve chilled as a light and refreshing post-meal dessert or as a part of a summer gathering menu.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Advance Preparation: You can prepare this dessert 24 hours ahead of the event, which will make it highly convenient when you host or attend any instant parties.
Helpful Notes:
Very Important to Drain the Pineapple: The crushed pineapple must be very well drained to keep the dessert from becoming too watery. A fine-meshed strainer can be used to press out any excess juice.
Homemade Whipped Cream Option: Making your own whipped cream is very easy. Just beatt 1 cup cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peak picks have formed.
Variation with Coconut: Mix grated coconut with the cream filling. The use of coconut just adds more background flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
Ina Garten: Suggests adding a spritz of fresh lemon juice into the cream cheese concoction for a delightfully bright and acidic note.
Martha Stewart: Says toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet for just a few minutes to enhance the flavor and crunch.
Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): Suggests that fresh pineapple be used for any more sharp flavor than you could get in canned pineapple. However much, the pineapple has to be very fine-chopped and well-drained.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use another kind of crust?
Yes, you may use several other kinds of crusts to regenerate. A vanilla wafer crust gives the end product a distinctly Vanilla-bean flavor. The crust may also be replaced with shortbread or gingersnaps for more depth in flavor.
Can the dish be made gluten-free?
Certainly. Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies instead of regular ones.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, chop the fresh pineapple very finely, then sprinkle a little salt over the pineapple, strain the water out as much as you can, and use that pineapple to yield even more enhanced flavor. You will need to use less fresh pineapple than one cup of canned fruit.
Can this dessert be made dairy-free?
You can make it dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese and any alternative nondairy whipped topping.
How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Ensure that you press the crust mixture firmly down into the pan. Before adding the filling, refrigerate crust for at least an hour. Draining the pineapple thoroughly will also keep your crust from being soggy.
Can I freeze this dessert?
We suggest not freezing it, as the texture of the cream cheese and topping may change. It may be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
Any fruit lover compensated in the form of additional fruits?
Yes, plenty more. Add some chopped strawberries, mandarin oranges, or mango: it will introduce even more color and flavor to the dish.
How do I make the dessert firmer?
It can’t. The only solution is to eat it very soon.
You may also want to make them in smaller cups. Is there claustrophobia setting in?
Some suggestions?
The best thing to serve with this dessert is a side of fresh berries to give an extra natural flavor, a dollop of whipped cream if desired, or some fruit sauce for deliciousness.
Conclusion:
In a Felineayscale, I will give the No-Bake Pineapple Cream Dessert cushion on the fact that it’s fresh, creamy, silky texture with the tropical flavor swimming with nearly oozing graham cracker crusts in a play of countertop summertime. In the company of excellent clarity, this farm-style dessert will light up any innocent intent to spoil oneself a bit. Praise the yummy simplicity and customize the toppings and add an extra garnish of your choice to make it your own!
