Description
Pina Colada Lush is a decadent no-bake dessert layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy pineapple and cream cheese mixture, and a luscious coconut pudding topping. Finished with whipped topping, toasted coconut, and maraschino cherries, it’s a refreshing tropical treat perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, creamy delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (12 full sheet graham crackers, crushed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar (or a combination of both)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or salted butter or coconut oil, melted with a dash of salt)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature (Philadelphia recommended)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup whipped topping
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (from 20 oz total)
Coconut Pudding Layer
- 3.4 oz instant coconut pudding mix
- 1 cup milk of choice
- Remaining drained crushed pineapple (about 3/4 cup from the 20 oz can)
Toppings
- Remaining whipped topping (approximately ¼ cup)
- ½ cup toasted coconut
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups crushed graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until the mixture is sandy and holds together when pressed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch glass baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces room temperature cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, ½ cup whipped topping, and 1 cup drained crushed pineapple until smooth and fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Prepare the coconut pudding layer: In the same or a clean bowl, whisk together 3.4 ounces instant coconut pudding mix with 1 cup milk until thickened. Stir in the remaining drained crushed pineapple. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to set slightly, then spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the toppings: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the coconut pudding layer. Sprinkle ½ cup toasted coconut evenly on top.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set fully. Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries as desired. Slice and enjoy your Pina Colada Lush!
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for the creamiest texture.
- Ensure pineapple is well drained to prevent a watery dessert.
- Allow the coconut pudding to set properly for best layering and texture.
- To toast coconut, spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- This dessert is best refrigerated and served chilled.
- Can be made a day ahead for convenience and improved flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pina Colada Lush, no bake dessert, tropical dessert, pineapple dessert, coconut pudding dessert, graham cracker crust dessert
