If you’re craving a taste of the tropics in the form of a creamy, dreamy dessert, you’re in for a treat! This Pina Colada Lush is like a vacation in every bite, with layers of buttery crust, velvety coconut cream, juicy pineapple, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s refreshing, light, and perfectly sweet, making it the ultimate dessert for summer gatherings, potlucks, or when you just need a little escape to paradise. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Pina Colada Lush

Versatile Perfect for summer BBQs, family get-togethers, or a simple weeknight treat.

Budget-Friendly Uses simple, affordable ingredients to create a luxurious dessert.

Quick and Easy No need to bake! Just layer, chill, and enjoy.

Customizable Make it alcohol-free or add a splash of rum for a true piña colada experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Light, creamy, and tropical—this dessert is a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

Ingredients in Pina Colada Lush

Every layer of this dessert is packed with rich, tropical flavors that come together beautifully.

Graham Cracker Crust The buttery, crumbly base that holds everything together.

Cream Cheese Adds a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet layers.

Powdered Sugar Sweetens the cream cheese filling without making it grainy.

Coconut Cream Pudding Gives the dessert its silky, tropical base.

Crushed Pineapple Adds juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.

Whipped Topping The light, fluffy finishing touch.

Shredded Coconut A sprinkle on top adds extra texture and tropical vibes.

Maraschino Cherries For that classic piña colada finishing touch!

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Time to layer up this heavenly, no-bake dessert!

Make the Crust In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into a dish. Chill for 10-15 minutes to set.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the chilled crust.

Mix the Pudding Layer Whisk coconut cream pudding mix with milk until thickened, then fold in crushed pineapple. Spread over the cream cheese layer.

Add the Whipped Topping Gently spread a thick layer of whipped topping over the pudding.

Garnish & Chill Sprinkle with shredded coconut and top with maraschino cherries. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12
Calories per serving Approx. 320-350 calories

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Pina Colada Lush

This light and creamy dessert pairs well with:

• Toasted Coconut For extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Pineapple Slices A fresh, juicy contrast to the creamy layers.
• A Splash of Rum Mix a little into the pudding for an adults-only version.
• Chocolate Drizzle A little white or dark chocolate adds decadence.
• Vanilla Ice Cream Because more creamy goodness is never a bad idea!

Additional Tips

• Chill Time Matters Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the layers set properly.
• Make It Ahead This dessert is even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance!
• Use Fresh Pineapple If you want a brighter, fresher flavor, chop up fresh pineapple instead of using canned.
• Add a Crunchy Layer Sprinkle toasted coconut or chopped macadamia nuts on top.
• Go Dairy-Free Swap regular pudding and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try a vanilla wafer or shortbread cookie crust for a unique twist.

2. How long does this last in the fridge?
It keeps well for 3-4 days, covered tightly in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze Pina Colada Lush?
Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge before serving.

4. Can I make this without coconut?
If you’re not a coconut fan, swap the pudding for vanilla or banana pudding.

5. How do I make it boozy?
Stir 1-2 tbsp of rum into the pudding layer for a fun adult twist.

6. Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Just whip up heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

7. Can I make this in individual cups?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in small jars or cups for easy, portable servings.

8. How do I prevent a runny dessert?
Make sure your pudding is fully set before adding the next layer.

9. What’s the best dish to serve this in?
A 9×13-inch glass baking dish works best for easy slicing and serving.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Conclusion

This Pina Colada Lush is the ultimate no-bake tropical dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its buttery crust, creamy coconut layers, juicy pineapple, and fluffy whipped topping, every bite is pure paradise. Whether you’re making it for a summer party, holiday gathering, or just because, this dessert is sure to be a favorite. So go ahead, take a bite, close your eyes, and pretend you’re on a beach!

Pina Colada Lush

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Pina Colada Lush is a tropical no-bake dessert featuring layers of buttery crust, creamy coconut filling, pineapple chunks, and whipped topping. This refreshing treat captures the flavors of a classic piña colada in a cool and creamy dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

 

• Author: Grace Sullivan
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (minimum)
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American, Tropical
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup powdered sugar

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained

– 1 package (3.4 oz) instant coconut or vanilla pudding mix

– 1 1/2 cups cold milk

– 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

– 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted (optional)

– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, for garnish

– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or macadamia nuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers) with melted butter until well combined.

2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a firm crust. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

3. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

5. In another bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens.

6. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, then spread the mixture over the cream cheese layer.

7. Gently spread the whipped topping over the pineapple-pudding layer.

8. Sprinkle toasted coconut, chopped nuts, and maraschino cherries on top for garnish.

9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving.

10. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!

 

Notes

– For a more intense coconut flavor, use coconut-flavored instant pudding mix instead of vanilla.

– Toast the shredded coconut for extra crunch and flavor.

– For a boozy twist, mix a tablespoon of rum into the pineapple layer.

– Best served cold; store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

 

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg