No Bake Pineapple Cheesecake (Print Version)

Light, creamy pineapple cheesecake on buttery graham crust. No oven needed.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

→ Filling

04 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
06 - 2/3 cup powdered sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple, drained (juice reserved)
09 - 2 tablespoons 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)

# Steps:

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. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
04 - Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and reserved pineapple juice. Beat until thoroughly combined and smooth.
05 - Fold in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
06 - In a separate clean bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form when the whisk is lifted.
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 an offset spatula.
09 - Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is completely firm and set.
10 - Top with additional well-drained crushed pineapple before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The tropical brightness makes everyone forget they are eating something rich and creamy
  • You can prep it in the morning and forget about it until guests arrive
02 -
  • Patience during the draining step will save you from a soupy disappointment
  • The refrigeration time is when the magic happens so do not rush it
03 -
  • Run a knife under hot water before slicing for clean cuts
  • Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving