Cream Cheese Cake With Pineapple
A creamy, tropical-flavored dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, sweet pineapple, and fluffy cream cheese topping, perfect for gatherings and hot summer days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, mix the butter and graham cracker crust to form the base.
- Layer the drained crushed pineapple evenly on top of the crust.
- Mix Cool Whip and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the Cool Whip and cream cheese mixture over the pineapple layer.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and light Cool Whip. If you're short on time, consider using a pre-made graham cracker crust. Be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid a soggy base. For added flavor, try folding in some toasted coconut or chopped nuts to the cream cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This cream cheese cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing touch. It can be served as a light dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet treat at gatherings. For an added twist, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Cake With Pineapple contains roughly 619 calories, with 8g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 525mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice. This will help maintain the texture of the cake and prevent it from becoming too watery.
How long should I chill the cake before serving?
For the best flavor and texture, chill the cake for at least 2-4 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set properly and enhances the overall taste.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It's a great option for prepping ahead for gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).