Dessert

Pina Colada Lush Recipe

ByIsabella Vance January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

Pina Colada Lush is a delightful layered dessert that captures the tropical flavors of the classic cocktail. With a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy pineapple and coconut layers, and a touch of toasted coconut and cherries on top, it’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a sweet, refreshing treat.

A layered dessert slice sits on a white plate with a thin gold rim, showing four clear layers: a bottom crumbly light brown crust, a thick creamy white layer above it, a smooth yellow custard-like layer, and a thick white whipped cream topping sprinkled with toasted golden flakes. A bright red cherry with a stem tops the whipped cream, adding a pop of color. A fork resting on the plate holds a bite-sized scoop of the dessert, showing the layers clearly. In the background, a glass baking dish with more of the same dessert is slightly out of focus against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (from 12 full sheet graham crackers, crushed)
¼ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar (or a combo of both)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter or salted butter, melted (or coconut oil, melted; add a dash of salt if using unsalted butter)
8 oz cream cheese, room temperature (Philadelphia recommended)
¼ cup powdered sugar
20 oz crushed pineapple, drained (1 cup for cream cheese layer, remainder for pudding mix)
½ cup whipped topping
3.4 oz instant coconut pudding mix
1 cup milk of choice
½ cup toasted coconut
Cherries for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and sugar until the mixture is sandy and holds together. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch glass baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, ¼ cup whipped topping, and 1 cup of the drained crushed pineapple until smooth and well combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
Step 3: In another bowl (or the same bowl without washing), whisk together the milk and instant coconut pudding mix until the pudding begins to thicken. Stir in the remaining drained pineapple. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until fully set, then spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Top the pudding layer with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the toasted coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set completely. Just before serving, garnish with cherries if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, substitute coconut oil for the butter in the crust.
Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for creamier texture.
To toast coconut, spread flakes on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown.
Try adding a splash of rum or coconut extract to the pudding layer for an extra tropical twist.
If avoiding dairy, use dairy-free cream cheese and pudding mix alternatives.

Storage

Store the Pina Colada Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within this period. When ready to serve, you can add fresh toasted coconut or additional cherries to refresh its appearance. No reheating is needed as this dessert is served chilled.

How to Serve

A square glass dish holds a dessert with three distinct layers: at the bottom, a light brown crumb crust, above it a creamy pale yellow layer, topped by a thick white whipped cream layer sprinkled with toasted golden-brown coconut flakes. Four bright red cherries with stems are placed evenly on the top. A portion is missing from one corner, showing the layered interior. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it’s best to prepare it at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. Overnight chilling is ideal.

What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can substitute digestive biscuits or any lightly sweetened cookie crumbs for the crust. Just crush them finely and mix with the melted butter as directed.