There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet pineapple and rich, creamy cheese. It’s a flavor pairing that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise. Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is one of those desserts that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy cream cheese filling, and the bright sweetness of pineapple, this no-bake treat is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect dessert for a summer gathering, a holiday treat, or just a way to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pie checks all the boxes. Plus, it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. If you’re a fan of creamy, fruity desserts, this will soon become one of your favorites!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie
If you love tropical flavors and creamy, dreamy desserts, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is the perfect treat. It’s a no-bake wonder with a rich, velvety filling, sweet pineapple bits, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight indulgence, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit! If you’re a fan of fruit-infused baked goods, check out this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf for another delicious homemade dessert.
“Every dish is a story, and every flavor is a memory.” – Chef Sofia
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a pie that’s bursting with tropical goodness.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Graham cracker pie crust (homemade or store-bought) | 1 (9-inch) |
| Canned pineapple slices (or chunks), drained and chopped | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream or Cool Whip | 1 cup |
| Full-fat cream cheese (Philadelphia or other premium brand) | 8 oz (1 package) |
| White granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
If you’re using a store-bought graham cracker crust, skip this step. If you prefer homemade, follow these quick steps:
- Crush about 12 graham crackers into fine crumbs.
- Mix them with ¼ cup melted butter and 2 tablespoons sugar.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
This step ensures a rich, smooth, and flavorful filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Step 3: Add the Pineapple
Drain the canned pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the filling runny. Once drained:
- Gently fold the pineapple pieces into the cream cheese mixture.
- Make sure the pineapple is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together!
- Pour the pineapple cream cheese filling into the prepared crust.
- Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth out the top.
Step 5: Chill the Pie
This pie needs to set before serving, so patience is key.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. If you’re planning a full meal, why not pair it with one of our Dinner Recipes for a complete dining experience? Here are a few ways to make it even more special:
- Top with whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Garnish with additional pineapple pieces or maraschino cherries.
- Sprinkle a little toasted coconut on top for a tropical twist.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This pie is perfect for making ahead of time, and storing it properly will keep it fresh for longer.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Thawing: Let frozen slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Protein | 4g |
“This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is a sweet slice of paradise. Simple, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavor!” – Chef Sofia
FAQs About Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes, but with caution. Fresh pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can break down dairy proteins and make the filling runny. To avoid this, lightly cook fresh pineapple before adding it to the mixture. If using fresh pineapple, cook it slightly in a saucepan over medium heat for a few minutes to deactivate the enzyme before adding it to the pie.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This pie is best when chilled for several hours, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and serve when ready.
How Can I Make This Pie Lighter?
If you prefer a lighter version, consider the following substitutions:
Use reduced-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat.
Replace heavy cream with light whipped topping.
Use a reduced-sugar version of canned pineapple.
Can I Use a Different Crust?
Yes! While a graham cracker crust is traditional, you can switch it up with a few alternatives:
Oreo crust: For a chocolatey contrast.
Vanilla wafer crust: Adds extra sweetness.
Shortbread crust: Buttery and rich.
Why Is My Filling Too Soft?
If your filling is not firm enough, here are a few possible reasons:
The heavy cream was not whipped to stiff peaks before folding it in.
The pie was not chilled long enough (aim for at least 4 hours).
Too much liquid was left in the pineapple before mixing.
Variations and Flavor Twists
Coconut Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie
For a more tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the filling and top with toasted coconut flakes.
Berry Pineapple Pie
Mix in fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
Lemon Pineapple Pie
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a tangy upgrade.
Chocolate Drizzle Pineapple Pie
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving for a rich, decadent flavor boost.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Dessert Experience
This pie is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors makes it even better.
| Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Enhances the creamy texture and balances the sweetness. |
| Cold Brew Coffee | The slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the sweet pie. |
| Piña Colada Mocktail | Pairs well with the tropical pineapple flavors. |
| Toasted Coconut Chips | Adds crunch and a deeper coconut flavor. |
Tips for a Perfect Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie
- Chill properly: The longer the pie chills, the better the texture.
- Drain pineapple well: Any extra juice can make the filling runny.
- Use quality ingredients: Full-fat cream cheese and real vanilla extract make a difference.
- Whip the cream correctly: Stiff peaks are necessary for the right consistency.
- Let it set before slicing: Cutting too soon will cause a messy slice.
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is a creamy, no-bake dessert bursting with tropical flavors. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and sweet pineapple chunks, this pie is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, holidays, or an everyday treat, this easy-to-make dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (Philadelphia or similar)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream (or Cool Whip)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned pineapple slices, drained and chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.Prepare the Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep the filling light and airy.Add the Pineapple
Drain the canned pineapple thoroughly and fold it into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.Chill the Pie
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set properly.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with additional pineapple slices or whipped cream before serving. Slice and enjoy this creamy, tropical dessert!
Notes
- Draining Pineapple: Make sure to remove excess juice from the pineapple to prevent a runny filling.
- Whipping Cream: If using Cool Whip, no need to whip separately. Just fold it directly into the cream cheese mixture.
- Make-Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance for the best texture.
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: pineapple cream cheese pie, no-bake pineapple pie, creamy pineapple pie, tropical cheesecake, easy pineapple dessert, pineapple cheesecake pie, pineapple cream pie, graham cracker crust pie, summer dessert, no-bake dessert
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the flavor variations, it’s bound to impress. So go ahead—make a slice of tropical heaven and enjoy every creamy bite!
“Desserts should be as easy to make as they are to enjoy. This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie does just that!” – Chef Sofia