A light, refreshing, and incredibly easy no-bake dessert perfect for hot days or when you need a quick treat. The creamy filling is loaded with pineapple flavor, and the graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 (8 ounce) container of whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional Garnish:
- Additional whipped topping
- Pineapple chunks or maraschino cherries
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate or an 8×8 inch square pan.
- Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the filling is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Pour the pineapple cream filling over the prepared graham cracker crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill:
- Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, you can garnish the dessert with additional whipped topping, pineapple chunks, or maraschino cherries, if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips and Variations:
- For a stronger pineapple flavor, you can add a few drops of pineapple extract to the filling.
- You can use other types of cookie crumbs for the crust, such as vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies.
- If you would like a thicker crust, increase the graham cracker crumbs and butter by 1/2.
- For a tropical twist, add some shredded coconut to the top of the dessert.
- For a lighter dessert, use light cream cheese and light whipped topping.
- Make individual desserts in small glasses or ramekins.