No Bake Pineapple Cheesecake (Printable)

Tangy pineapple filling meets creamy cheesecake on a buttery graham cracker 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 tbsp granulated sugar

→ Filling

04 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
06 - 2/3 cup powdered sugar
07 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
08 - 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
09 - 2 tbsp reserved pineapple juice
10 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Topping

11 - 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
12 - Optional: whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly moistened and all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
02 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
04 - Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and reserved pineapple juice to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and mixture is uniform.
05 - Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
06 - In a separate clean bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using an electric mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.
07 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and no white streaks remain.
08 - Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a rubber spatula.
09 - Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm.
10 - Before serving, top with additional well-drained crushed pineapple. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The texture is impossibly light while still feeling indulgent
  • Pineapple cuts through the richness so every bite feels fresh
  • You can make it ahead and actually enjoy your own party
02 -
  • Room temperature cream cheese is nonnegotiable for smooth results
  • Every drop of excess liquid from the pineapple must be removed
  • The cheesecake needs the full chilling time to set properly
03 -
  • Use a kitchen scale for your cream cheese to ensure perfect measurements
  • Place a damp paper towel under your mixing bowl to keep it steady while folding