Description
This Pineapple Cheese Pie is a creamy, no-bake dessert perfect for warm days or any time you want a light and refreshing treat. Combining a smooth cream cheese base with sweet, tangy crushed pineapple and a fluffy whipped topping, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker or shortbread crust, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Chilling for several hours ensures a firm, sliceable pie that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress at family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 prepared pie crust (graham cracker or shortbread)
- If homemade crust: 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 5 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
Topping (optional):
- Pineapple chunks for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: If you are using a homemade crust, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar in a bowl. Mix well until crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press the mixture firmly into a pie dish to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust: Place the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly firm. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before adding filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract to incorporate the flavor evenly.
- Combine ingredients: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Continue folding until the ingredients are evenly combined and the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the filling into the prepared and cooled crust, smoothing out the surface with a spatula for an even appearance.
- Decorate and chill: Arrange pineapple chunks on top of the pie if desired for extra decoration and flavor. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled and set, before serving to allow flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent excess moisture from making the pie soggy.
- For best results, soften the cream cheese to room temperature before whipping to achieve a smooth filling.
- You can use a store-bought graham cracker or shortbread crust to save time.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Decorate with additional whipped topping or maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
