Description
Creamy no-bake pineapple heaven cheesecake blends tropical flavors with smooth cream cheese and graham cracker crust. Chilled layers of sweet pineapple and rich filling create a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (20 oz / 567 g) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 (8 oz / 227 g) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz / 227 g) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Crust Formation: Thoroughly blend graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until achieving a uniform, sand-like consistency that holds together when pressed.
- Crust Setting: Firmly press the crumb mixture into a rectangular dish, creating an even, compact foundation, then refrigerate to stabilize while preparing the filling.
- Cream Base Preparation: Whip cream cheese and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and velvety, eliminating any potential lumps.
- Filling Integration: Tenderly fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, maintaining its delicate, airy texture and ensuring complete incorporation.
- Tropical Infusion: Gently drain crushed pineapple and fold into the creamy filling, distributing the fruit evenly to create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Assembly and Chilling: Spread the pineapple-enhanced filling across the chilled crust in a uniform layer, then optionally sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
- Final Refinement: Securely cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the dessert to set completely.
- Presentation: Before serving, garnish with vibrant maraschino cherries and slice into elegant squares, revealing the luscious layers of this no-bake tropical delight.
Notes
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Remove excess moisture completely to prevent a watery filling and maintain the cheesecake’s creamy texture.
- Smooth Cracker Base: Press graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a stable, compact foundation that won’t crumble when serving.
- Gentle Folding Technique: Use soft, circular motions when mixing whipped topping to preserve its light, airy consistency and prevent deflating the mixture.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Allow minimum 4-hour refrigeration to let ingredients meld, ensuring deeper taste and perfect set for clean, neat slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg