Pineapple Dessert
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pineapple Dessert is a light, refreshing, and tropical treat that’s sweet, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. With juicy pineapple, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery crust or crumb base, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a taste of sunshine in every bite.
ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
crushed pineapple, drained
instant vanilla pudding mix
whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer crumbs
unsalted butter, melted
powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional, for topping)
directions
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust.
In another bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple and dry instant pudding mix until well combined.
Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 9 squares.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a brighter flavor.
Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Make individual servings in small cups for parties.
Top with maraschino cherries for a fun tropical touch.
storage/reheating

Store Pineapple Dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dessert is best served chilled and does not need reheating.
FAQs
Can I use pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple?
Crushed pineapple works best for an even texture, but you can finely chop chunks if needed.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is even better when made a day in advance so it sets nicely.
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
Homemade whipped cream works great—just make sure it’s stabilized if you’re storing it for more than a day.
Do I need to bake the crust?
No baking needed! The butter holds the crumb crust together once chilled.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Conclusion
Pineapple Dessert is a simple, sweet, and refreshing treat that brings tropical vibes to any table. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll reach for whenever you want something light, fruity, and delicious. Enjoy every cool, creamy bite!
Print
Pineapple Dessert
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
Description
A light, refreshing no-bake treat with juicy pineapple, creamy pudding, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or whenever you crave a taste of the tropics!
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or 2 cups homemade whipped cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, mix drained crushed pineapple and dry instant pudding mix until well combined.
- Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar if desired for extra sweetness.
- Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor—just chop finely and drain excess juice.
- Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the crust and filling for extra creaminess.
- Top with maraschino cherries for a fun tropical look.
- Make individual servings in small cups for parties or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg