No Bake Pineapple Cheesecake (Print Page)

Light and creamy pineapple cheesecake on graham crust. No oven needed.

# What You 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
09 - 2 tbsp 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 crumbs hold together when pressed.
02 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
03 - Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
04 - Incorporate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and reserved pineapple juice. Beat until mixture is uniform and well combined.
05 - Gently fold drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed throughout.
06 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Lift whisk to test—peaks should stand straight without collapsing.
07 - Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula, being careful not to deflate the air. Continue until fully incorporated and smooth.
08 - Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Tap pan gently to release any air bubbles.
09 - Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Filling should be firm and set before serving.
10 - Release springform ring carefully. Top with additional drained crushed pineapple. Add whipped cream rosettes and fresh mint leaves if desired. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • You get that luxurious cheesecake experience without heating up your kitchen for even a second
  • The pineapple cuts through the richness so perfectly that you can have a second slice without feeling weighed down
  • It looks like you spent hours but actually comes together in under 30 minutes of active time
02 -
  • The chilling time is not negotiable. This needs a full 4 hours to set properly or you will end up with pineapple soup instead of cheesecake.
  • Run a thin knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform or the crust might stick to the sides.
  • This actually gets better after sitting overnight, so it is the perfect make ahead dessert for parties.
03 -
  • Line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper for easier removal and serving
  • Room temperature ingredients are the difference between silky smooth filling and one with tiny cream cheese flecks