Description
Tropical Pineapple Delight is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a creamy pineapple and cream cheese filling, topped with instant vanilla pudding, whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and fresh pineapple chunks. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make treat perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you crave a tropical-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Toppings
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- 1 cup toasted coconut flakes
- Fresh pineapple chunks (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping and the drained crushed pineapple, ensuring the pineapple is evenly distributed. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until the pudding thickens as per package instructions. Once thickened, spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add Toppings: Top the layered dessert with a generous amount of whipped cream. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the whipped cream and garnish with fresh pineapple chunks to add texture and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow all layers to set and flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled for a refreshing tropical treat.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent a soggy crust.
- You can substitute crushed pineapple with finely chopped fresh pineapple for a fresher taste.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese layer.
- Make sure to toast the coconut flakes lightly to bring out their nutty flavor without burning.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead to save time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American