These Pineapple Dream Dessert Bars are light, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavor. Made with layers of buttery graham cracker crust, whipped pineapple cream cheese filling, and fluffy whipped topping, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or anytime you want a no-fuss dessert. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this chilled delight that tastes like sunshine in every bite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 9–12 squares
Cuisine: American Classic Dessert
Ingredients
Crust
-
2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, divided
-
½ cup melted butter
Filling
-
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
-
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
-
2 cups powdered sugar
-
20 ounces crushed pineapple (canned, well drained)
-
8 ounces whipped topping (thawed, such as Cool Whip)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place graham crackers in a large Ziploc bag and crush with a rolling pin, or pulse in a food processor until finely ground.
Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix with the melted butter until evenly coated and the texture resembles wet sand.
Scoop 2 cups of the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking pan and press firmly into an even layer using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup. Reserve the remaining ½ cup of crumbs for topping.
Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and allow to cool completely before adding the filling.
Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low to prevent splatter, then increase to medium speed until fully combined and creamy.
Gently stir in 2 tablespoons of the well-drained crushed pineapple. This adds subtle sweetness and tang to the cream layer without making it too wet.
Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface.
Add the Whipped Pineapple Topping
In a separate bowl, fold the remaining crushed pineapple into the thawed whipped topping until well blended.
Spread this mixture gently over the cream cheese layer, smoothing the top to create an even, airy finish.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of graham cracker crumbs over the whipped layer.
Chill and Serve
Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.
Once fully chilled and set, slice into squares and serve cold. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Information (per square – based on 12 servings)
-
Calories: 260
-
Protein: 2g
-
Carbohydrates: 32g
-
Fat: 14g
-
Sugar: 24g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sodium: 120mg
-
Calcium: 4% DV
-
Vitamin C: 10% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Pineapple dream dessert bars became popular in the mid-20th century as no-bake, layered refrigerator desserts grew in popularity. Inspired by traditional icebox cakes and fruit-flavored cream pies, these bars became a go-to treat for Southern potlucks, vintage church cookbooks, and retro recipe collections. The combination of tropical fruit, whipped topping, and buttery crust is universally loved and continues to be a nostalgic favorite across generations.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
-
No fancy tools needed – just bowls, a mixer, and a spatula
-
Tropical and creamy – the pineapple brings a fresh and tangy brightness
-
No-bake layered dessert – only the crust gets baked for added stability
-
Perfect for warm weather – refreshing and served cold
-
Make-ahead friendly – even better after chilling overnight
-
Loved by all ages – sweet, light, and crowd-pleasing
Health Benefits
While this is a dessert, it contains some naturally good-for-you ingredients:
-
Pineapple provides vitamin C, manganese, and digestive enzymes
-
Cream cheese offers protein and calcium
-
Graham crackers are low-fat and lightly sweetened, offering a sturdy whole-grain base
-
Moderation-friendly – small portions are satisfying and easy to serve
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve with fresh mint leaves – for a pop of green and fragrance
-
Garnish with extra pineapple chunks – for tropical flair
-
Add toasted coconut – for a texture boost and island-inspired twist
-
Pair with iced tea or lemonade – for a backyard dessert
-
Serve in parfait glasses – as a no-bake trifle with layers of crust, cream, and whipped topping
Cooking Tips
-
Drain the pineapple thoroughly – too much juice will make the filling runny
-
Press the crust firmly – a tight base helps the bars hold together
-
Cool crust completely before topping – or the filling will melt
-
Don’t overmix whipped topping – fold gently to keep the airiness
-
Chill fully before serving – this helps set all the layers perfectly
Variations to Try
-
Add toasted coconut to the topping – for more tropical flavor
-
Use crushed graham cereal – as an easy swap for graham crackers
-
Try lemon zest in the cream cheese layer – for a zesty edge
-
Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese – for a richer flavor
-
Add chopped pecans or walnuts – for a bit of crunch in the topping
Conclusion
These Pineapple Dream Dessert Bars are the ultimate make-ahead treat for any occasion. With layers of cool, creamy sweetness and the refreshing flavor of pineapple, they’re a guaranteed hit at parties, picnics, and holidays. The combination of buttery crust, tangy cream, and whipped fruit topping is light yet indulgent—and always leaves people asking for seconds.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s best when made the day before. Chill overnight for the most set and flavorful result.
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s finely chopped and very well drained. Canned is ideal for texture and moisture content.
3. Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes. Use about 2 cups of whipped cream, beaten to stiff peaks. Just note it may deflate faster than store-bought.
4. What size pan should I use?
An 8×8-inch baking dish is ideal, but you can also use a 9×9 or double the recipe for a 9×13.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It’s best served cold.
6. Can I freeze this dessert?
It’s not recommended—freezing affects the texture of the whipped topping and cream layers.
7. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free graham crackers and check your whipped topping and other ingredients for gluten.
8. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s mild, sweet, and has a creamy, soft texture that kids love.
9. Can I make it in individual servings?
Yes. Assemble in jars or cups for a perfect picnic or party-friendly option.
10. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce the powdered sugar in the cream cheese layer slightly, but keep in mind it helps with stability and sweetness balance.