Introduction to No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie
Summer is the perfect time for light, refreshing desserts, and my No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie is just the ticket! This delightful treat is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy filling and fruity bursts of pineapple and cherries, it’s like a tropical vacation on a plate. Trust me, once you serve this pie, everyone will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie
This No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie is a dream come true for anyone who loves delicious desserts without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 20 minutes of prep time. Plus, the creamy texture combined with the sweet and tangy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just treating yourself, this pie is sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds!
Ingredients for No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form the buttery crust that holds everything together. You can crush whole graham crackers if you prefer a fresher taste.
- Granulated sugar: A little sweetness to enhance the crust and balance the flavors in the filling.
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the crust. Make sure it’s melted for easy mixing.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling! It gives that creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruit.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese mixture without the graininess of granulated sugar.
- Crushed pineapple: Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a soggy pie. The pineapple adds a tropical flair!
- Maraschino cherries: These sweet, bright cherries add color and flavor. Reserve a few whole ones for garnish!
- Whipped topping: This lightens the filling and gives it a fluffy texture. You can use store-bought or homemade whipped cream.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delicious.
- Whipped cream: For garnishing, it adds a lovely finishing touch.
- Extra cherries: Use these for garnish to make your pie look extra special.
- Crushed graham crackers: Optional, but they make a great garnish for added texture.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to get an even layer. Once it’s nicely packed, pop it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling. This helps the crust set up nicely!
Step 2: Make the Cream Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. This is where the magic begins! Next, gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, vanilla extract, and whipped topping. The mixture should be light and airy, bursting with fruity goodness. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Once your crust has chilled, it’s time to fill it! Spoon the creamy filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. I love to create little swirls on top for a decorative touch. This No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie is already looking fabulous! But wait, there’s more—let’s chill it to perfection.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. For the best results, let it chill for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, top it with whipped cream swirls, whole cherries, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for that extra flair. Slice it up, and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces!
Tips for Success
- Chill the pie overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste—especially the fruit!
- Don’t skip draining the pineapple; excess moisture can make the pie soggy.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries and pineapple to suit your taste.
- For a fun twist, add a splash of coconut extract to the filling!
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish: A standard pie dish works best, but a glass or ceramic dish can add a nice touch.
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for the filling and a smaller one for the crust.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer is perfect, but a whisk will do if you’re feeling strong!
- Spatula: A rubber spatula helps in folding and spreading the filling smoothly.
- Plastic wrap: Essential for covering the pie while it chills in the fridge.
Variations
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap out maraschino cherries for fresh cherries or strawberries for a different fruity experience.
- Use a gluten-free graham cracker alternative to make this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of almond extract to the cream filling.
- Make it a chocolate lover’s dream by folding in some mini chocolate chips into the filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Serve with fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing complement.
- For drinks, consider a chilled lemonade or iced tea to enhance the summer vibe.
- Garnish each slice with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie
Can I make No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie in advance?
Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making a day ahead. Just cover it well and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious!
How long does this pie last in the fridge?
Your No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to finely chop the fresh pineapple and drain any excess juice. This will keep your pie from getting soggy while still delivering that fresh, tropical flavor.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form, and fold it into your filling.
Is this No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pie is vegetarian-friendly! It contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients, making it a delightful dessert for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Creating this No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie is more than just making a dessert; it’s about bringing joy to those you love. The vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a showstopper at any gathering. Each slice is a reminder of sunny days and sweet memories shared with family and friends. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying the moment. So, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this pie is sure to be the highlight. Trust me, it’s a slice of happiness on a plate!
Print
No-Bake Pineapple Cherry Cream Pie: The Perfect Summer Dessert!
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light, creamy, and fruity no-bake pie filled with pineapple, cherries, and a velvety cream cheese mixture in a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved (reserve some whole for garnish)
- 1 tub (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Extra cherries (for garnish)
- Crushed graham crackers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing filling.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in drained pineapple, halved cherries, vanilla, and whipped topping until combined.
- Spoon filling into the chilled crust and spread evenly. Chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
- Top with whipped cream swirls, whole cherries, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, chill the pie overnight.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries and pineapple to your taste.
- This pie can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
