Description
The tropical pineapple paradise pie recipe is a creamy, fruity dessert that blends tangy pineapple with a silky smooth filling and a buttery crust. Whether baked or no-bake, it’s an easy-to-make treat that feels like a vacation in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, summer parties, or whenever you crave a taste of the tropics!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafers)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained well (or 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped finely)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (reserved from can or fresh)
- ½ cup sugar (for filling)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Optional: ½ cup shredded coconut, lime zest, or toasted coconut for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the pie dish. Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or chill for 1 hour (no-bake option).
- Cook the pineapple filling: In a saucepan, combine drained pineapple, juice, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until thickened. Let cool.
- Make the creamy layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add condensed milk and vanilla extract, blending well. Gently fold in whipped topping.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the pineapple filling evenly over the crust. Top with the cream mixture, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, until set.
- Garnish & serve: Add shredded coconut, lime zest, or fresh pineapple chunks before slicing. Enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Best made the night before for flavors to fully develop.
- Storage: Refrigerate covered for 3–4 days, or freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Variations: Add coconut cream for extra tropical flavor, or substitute cream cheese with vegan alternatives for a dairy-free pie.
- Pro Tip: Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid a watery pie. Press crust firmly so it holds its shape when sliced.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg