Description
This Tropical Pineapple Cream Pie is a bright, creamy, and refreshing dessert perfect for gatherings. Featuring a smooth cream cheese and pudding base blended with crushed pineapple and a graham cracker crust, this no-bake pie sets in the fridge for a luscious, easy-to-make treat that delights with tropical flavors and a light texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Base
- 1 prepared graham cracker pie crust (9-inch; store-bought or homemade)
Cream Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple in juice, well-drained (reserve 2 to 3 tablespoons juice)
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 ounces whipped topping (thawed), or 2 cups lightly sweetened whipped cream
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Extra pineapple tidbits
- Maraschino cherries
- Lime zest
Instructions
- Prep the Pineapple: Open the can and drain the crushed pineapple using a fine-mesh sieve, gently pressing with a spoon to remove excess liquid. Reserve 2 to 3 tablespoons of the juice for the pudding mixture.
- Make the Cream Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides to ensure no lumps remain.
- Mix the Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice until the mixture thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the thickened pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined and silky smooth.
- Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold the well-drained crushed pineapple into the cream mixture, taking care not to overmix to maintain texture.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully fold in the whipped topping using a spatula just until the mixture is smooth and airy for a light texture.
- Fill the Crust: Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared graham cracker pie crust, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula.
- Chill to Set: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set and make slicing easier.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with toasted coconut flakes, extra pineapple tidbits, maraschino cherries, and a sprinkle of lime zest if desired. Slice with a clean, sharp knife and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Reserve some pineapple juice to enhance flavor and texture in the pudding mix.
- Do not overmix when folding in pineapple and whipped topping to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Allow ample chilling time for clean slices and optimal texture.
- Optional toppings add beautiful visuals and complementary tropical flavors.
