No Bake Pineapple Cheesecake (Printable Version)
Light and creamy pineapple cheesecake with buttery graham crust. No oven needed for this refreshing summer dessert.
# What You'll Need:
→ 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 - Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
13 - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
# Method:
01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly moistened and all crumbs are coated.
02 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Place in refrigerator to chill while preparing filling.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
04 - Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and reserved pineapple juice to cream cheese. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
05 - Fold in drained crushed pineapple using rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout cream cheese mixture.
06 - In separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream with electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
07 - Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture in thirds, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Continue folding until fully incorporated and smooth.
08 - Spread cheesecake filling evenly over prepared crust, smoothing top with offset spatula. Tap pan gently on counter to release air bubbles.
09 - Cover pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set and firm.
10 - Release sides of springform pan. Top cheesecake with additional drained crushed pineapple. Garnish with dollops of whipped cream and fresh mint leaves if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
# Chef's Tips:
01 -
- The brightness of pineapple cuts through the rich cream cheese creating the most refreshing summer dessert
- You can make it entirely ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your gathering instead of hovering near the oven
02 -
- Springform pans can leak slightly in the refrigerator, so I always place mine on a baking sheet just in case
- The filling needs those four hours minimum to set completely, so plan ahead and do not rush this step
03 -
- Run a thin knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform for clean edges every time
- If the pineapple seems especially juicy, spread it on paper towels for ten minutes before adding to the filling