Description
This Coconut Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert is a tropical no-bake cheesecake bar featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy filling mixed with crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. It’s topped with toasted coconut and chilled to set, offering a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted or plain)
Optional Garnish
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra toasted coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set and slightly golden, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then stir in the well-drained crushed pineapple and half of the shredded coconut to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Spread the pineapple and coconut cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the remaining shredded coconut over the top; if you prefer extra flavor and texture, toast the coconut before sprinkling.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set firmly. Just before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries or additional toasted coconut if desired for an appealing presentation and extra tropical flair.
Notes
- Ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery filling.
- For a firmer texture, stabilized whipped cream can be used or chill for a longer period.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the fridge to deepen the flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
