Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert

This dessert is summer in a dish. Sweet, tangy pineapple meets cool, creamy filling—all wrapped in a buttery graham cracker hug. Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert is a no-bake classic, which means no sweat in the kitchen. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or just because you want something chilled and comforting.

When I was a kid, my grandma used to make this for every barbecue. She’d pull it out of the fridge like it was a treasure chest. The kids? We went nuts. It was creamy, cold, and fruity. And yeah, we always fought over who got the corner pieces.

Let’s make Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert the right way—with a few chef tips to keep it fluffy, firm, and freakin’ delicious.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert

This dessert is flexible, so here’s what you need—and what you can swap in if you’re missing something or want a twist:

Want a dairy-free pineapple dessert? Use plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping. Going low-fat? Sub in Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese. Want to impress someone? Mascarpone’s your best friend.

Kitchen Tip: Folding Technique

This part right here? Most people mess this up. You don’t stir—you fold. Here’s how to keep that filling light and airy:

• Use a rubber spatula—not a whisk, not a spoon.
  
• Cut through the center, then sweep from the bottom and fold over the top.
  
• Rotate the bowl as you go.
  
• Do not rush this. It’s like tucking in a baby—gentle is the name of the game.

Overmixing knocks the air out. And without air? You’re eating a brick, not a dream.

Ingredients List for Traditional Pineapple Treat

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  
• ½ cup melted butter (or coconut oil)

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  
• 1½ cups crushed pineapple (drained very well)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
  
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  
• OR use non-dairy topping for vegan no-bake dessert

Time Needed

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  
• Chill Time: Minimum 4 hours (overnight is best)

This dessert needs time in the fridge. It firms up, the flavors marry, and when you slice into it? It holds like a dream.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Dessert with Graham Cracker Crust

• Make and Chill the Crust
  Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it feels like wet sand. Press it into a 9×9 baking dish using the bottom of a glass—nice and tight. Stick it in the fridge while you prep the filling. This gives you a firm base that won’t crumble.
  
• Beat the Cream Cheese
  Start with room temp cream cheese—it should be soft to the touch. Beat it with the sugar until smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed. This is the heart of your pineapple cream cheese dessert.
  
• Whip the Cream
  In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until you get soft, glossy peaks. It should hold its shape but still look pillowy. This adds body and lightness.
  
• Fold and Add Pineapple
  Use that folding technique: cut through the center with a spatula, sweep under, and fold over gently. First fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mix, then add in well-drained pineapple. (Squeeze out the juice—seriously. Wet pineapple ruins the texture.)
  

• Assemble the Layers
  Spoon the filling over your chilled crust and spread it evenly. Use an offset spatula for smoothness. You want clean layers when you slice.
  
• Top and Chill
  Optional: sprinkle extra graham crumbs or pineapple tidbits on top. Chill it for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. It needs that time to firm up and become sliceable. Cold, creamy perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grandma’s Pineapple Cream Dessert

Related Recipes Like This Pineapple Dream Dessert

If Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert hit the spot, you’ll want to check out these other sweet favorites from my kitchen:

• Try a no-bake lemon dessert alternative that’s just as easy and refreshingly tangy.
  
• Cool off with this refreshing strawberry Dole Whip for summer—perfect for hot days and big smiles.
  
• Nothing beats classic old-fashioned banana bread with a buttery crust and moist center.
  
• Planning brunch? Whip up the best homemade cinnamon rolls for family brunch—soft, gooey, and packed with cinnamon flavor.
  
• Craving comfort? This old-fashioned rice pudding with creamy texture will take you right back to grandma’s table.

Conclusion + Call to Action

There you have it—Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert. A chilled pineapple dessert that’s easy, nostalgic, and customizable. Whether you’re sticking to the traditional pineapple treat or going vegan no-bake dessert style, this one always delivers.

Make it once and it’ll become your go-to. Tag me if you make it—I want to see that clean slice with the perfect layers. Because this? This is the dessert I want to eat.

👉 Want more sweet inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest for even more dreamy desserts and family-favorite recipes: EmilioRecipes on Pinterest.

Grandma’s Pineapple Dream Dessert

Print Recipe

This no-bake pineapple dream dessert is summer in a dish—sweet, tangy crushed pineapple and creamy whipped filling over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or anytime you want something chilled and nostalgic.

• Author: Emilio
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ cups crushed pineapple (drained very well)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• OR use non-dairy topping for vegan option

Instructions

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press into a 9×9 baking dish. Chill in the fridge.
2. Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
4. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Do not stir.
5. Add well-drained crushed pineapple and fold again gently.
6. Spoon the filling onto the chilled crust and smooth evenly.
7. Optional: sprinkle extra graham crumbs or pineapple tidbits on top.
8. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.

Notes

Be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid a soggy dessert. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping. Fold gently to keep the mixture fluffy.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: pineapple dessert, no-bake, summer treat, graham cracker crust