No Bake Pineapple Cheesecake (Printable Version)
Light and creamy pineapple cheesecake with buttery graham crust. No oven needed for this refreshing summer dessert.
# Ingredient List:
→ Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
→ Filling
04 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
06 - 2/3 cup powdered sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
09 - 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
10 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ Topping
11 - 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
12 - Whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly moistened and press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate while making the filling.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice. Beat until fully combined.
03 - Fold in 1 1/2 cups drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
04 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
05 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
06 - Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
07 - Before serving, top with additional well-drained crushed pineapple. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves if desired. Release from springform pan and slice into portions.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- No oven means you won't heat up your whole house during sweltering months
- The combination of tart pineapple and rich cream cheese hits this perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds
02 -
- Drain that pineapple longer than you think you need to because even a little extra juice can turn your slice into a puddle
- Room temperature cream cheese and cold cream are non-negotiable for the texture that makes people ask for the recipe
03 -
- Run a thin knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices for picture-perfect servings
- The springform pan is your friend here because trying to remove this from a regular cake pan will end in tears