This Creamy Pineapple Dream Delight is a quick, refreshing, no-bake treat made with canned pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese. It has a velvety texture, a bright tropical flavor, and comes together with minimal effort. Whether you need a last-minute dessert or want something cool and comforting for a warm day, this recipe delivers a perfectly sweet, tangy, and creamy bite every time. It’s family-friendly, easy to customize, and ideal for potlucks, parties, or simple weeknight cravings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but brightens the flavor)
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream (optional for extra lightness)
- Graham crackers, cookies, or fruit for serving (optional)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This ensures your dessert stays silky without lumps.
- Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk while mixing. Continue to blend until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and fully combined.
- Add vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing just until incorporated. The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple using a spatula. Make sure the pineapple is well drained to prevent the dessert from becoming watery.
- If you prefer a lighter, airier texture, fold in the whipped topping. If you skip this step, the dessert will be richer and denser, similar to a cheesecake filling.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, bowl, or individual dessert cups.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Serve chilled with graham crackers, cookies, or fresh fruit on the side, or enjoy it on its own.
Notes
This dessert is highly customizable. You can fold in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a handful of mini marshmallows for extra texture. If you like a firmer, pie-style dessert, spread the mixture into a graham cracker crust and chill until set. For extra pineapple flavor, reserve a tablespoon of drained pineapple to sprinkle on top before serving. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; cold cream cheese will lead to lumps. The longer the dessert chills, the better the final texture and flavor become.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg