Short Description:
This strawberry and pineapple layered dessert is a refreshing, no-bake treat perfect for any occasion. With a smooth, creamy filling and the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and pineapples, this dessert comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of fruity desserts that are both delicious and easy to prepare, this strawberry and pineapple layered dessert is exactly what you need. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy pineapples creates a perfect balance of flavors, while the creamy layers make each bite indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s a no-bake recipe, which means you won’t need to heat up your kitchen, and the layers look so beautiful when served. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just for a weeknight treat, this dessert is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced

• 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or make your own)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is smooth and creamy.

5. Layer the bottom of the graham cracker crust with half of the cream cheese mixture.

6. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the cream cheese layer.

7. Add another layer of the remaining cream cheese mixture on top of the pineapple.

8. Finish by topping the dessert with diced strawberries, arranging them evenly across the top.

9. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to let it set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Add other fruits: You can mix in other fruits like blueberries or mango for an even more colorful dessert.

• Use a different crust: If you prefer, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo crust or a crushed pretzel crust for added flavor.

• Make it lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whipped topping and use reduced-fat cream cheese.

• Add nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert stays fresh for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This is a no-bake dessert, so there’s no need to reheat it. Serve cold directly from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to cut it into small pieces and drain any excess juice before layering.

2. Can I make this dessert a day ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes better after being refrigerated for several hours or overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead treat.

3. What if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?

You can use any pre-made crust like an Oreo crust or make your own by crushing cookies or crackers of your choice and mixing them with melted butter.

4. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure they are thawed and drained of excess water before adding them to the dessert.

5. Can I substitute the cream cheese for something else?

You could substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different flavor, but the texture may change slightly.

6. How can I make this dessert more decadent?

For an even richer flavor, you can add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cream cheese and fruit layers.

7. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that the graham cracker crust is gluten-free or use a gluten-free crust alternative.

8. How do I know if the whipped cream is ready?

You’ll know the whipped cream is ready when stiff peaks form and it holds its shape when you lift the beaters out of the bowl.

9. How can I ensure the dessert sets properly?

Make sure to refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or even longer if possible. The cream cheese mixture needs time to firm up.

10. Can I use a different sweetener instead of powdered sugar?

You can use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

Conclusion

This strawberry and pineapple layered dessert is a perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors, making it an irresistible treat. With no baking required, it’s quick and easy to prepare, and it’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. Whether for a special occasion or just a refreshing dessert on a warm day, this recipe will become a favorite in your dessert rotation!

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