Name: No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs (Finely crushed); 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (Melted); 0.25 cup Granulated sugar; 16 ounces Cream cheese (Softened to room temperature); 8 ounces Crushed pineapple (Drained well); 0.25 cup Granulated sugar; 16 ounces Strawberries (Hulled and sliced); 3 Bananas (Sliced into rounds); 2 cups Heavy whipping cream (Cold); 0.5 cup Powdered sugar (Sifted); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, fruity, and utterly comforting, this No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes and tastes like a summer celebration in every bite. Picture a buttery graham cracker crust, tangy-sweet cream cheese studded with crushed pineapple, a layer of fresh banana and strawberry slices, and a cloud of whipped cream on top — no oven required. Fun fact: layered no-bake desserts were born from the desire to serve impressive party treats without turning on the oven during hot months.

This recipe is special because it’s simple, fast, and family-friendly. Kids love the fruity layers and adults appreciate the creamy texture and bright flavors. If you enjoy other no-bake shows of flavor, you might also like my twist on the layered cannoli dessert, such as the delightful cannoli cream pie no-bake dessert dream, which shares the same easy, make-ahead appeal. Ready to whip up something unforgettable? Let’s get started!

What is No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert?

What’s in a name? No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert is exactly what it sounds like: a layered, chilled dessert built around smooth, sweetened cream cheese — and you never turn on the oven. Curious why we call it that? Maybe because it’s the perfect fallback when you want something impressive but can’t be bothered with baking. Or maybe it’s because, as the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dessert makes a direct route with flavor and comfort. Try it and see if it becomes your signature no-fuss sweet!

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall for this dessert for three big reasons:

Luscious, layered texture: The creamy, tangy cream cheese layer contrasts beautifully with juicy pineapple and fresh fruit creating a delightful mouthfeel in every forkful.
Wallet-friendly and accessible: Making this at home uses pantry staples and seasonal fruit, saving you money compared to store-bought alternatives while delivering fresher flavor.
Flavor-packed toppings: Fresh strawberries, banana slices, chopped walnuts, a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a maraschino cherry bring color, crunch and that finishing touch that makes each serving feel like a treat.

If you love bright, no-bake cheesecake flavors, don’t miss the refreshing no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake on the blog for another easy, crowd-pleasing dessert. Now grab your mixing bowl — you’re about to make something delicious.

How to Make

Quick Overview
This recipe is easy because there’s no baking and only a few simple steps. You’ll press a quick graham crust, whip a pineapple-cream cheese filling, layer fresh fruit, top with whipped cream, and chill. The result is creamy, slightly tangy, and perfectly balanced with fresh fruit. Prep time is about 20 minutes with at least 2 hours chilling time for best results.

Ingredients

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs — finely crushed
0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
0.25 cup granulated sugar
16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
8 ounces can crushed pineapple, drained well
0.25 cup granulated sugar
16 ounces strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 bananas, sliced into rounds
2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
0.5 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Grease a 9×13” baking dish with butter or cooking spray and place a medium mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer. Chilled beaters help the whipped cream form faster.
In a small mixing bowl, stir the graham cracker crumbs and 0.25 cup granulated sugar together. Add the melted butter and stir until combined and the mixture looks evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator or freezer to help the crust set for at least 10 minutes.
Using a hand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, and 0.25 cup granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and well combined, scraping the sides of the bowl so no lumps remain. Remove the baking dish from the freezer and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Place the banana slices evenly in a single layer on top of the cream cheese mixture. Arrange a strawberry slice on top of each banana slice for a pretty, uniform layer.
Remove the mixing bowl and beaters from the freezer. Pour the cold heavy cream into the bowl, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat — stop when the cream holds soft, glossy peaks.
Spread the whipped cream gently over the strawberry and banana layer in an even layer. Smooth the top or create soft swirls for a decorative finish.
Chill the dessert until ready to serve, at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and top each individual serving with a maraschino cherry. Additional banana and strawberry slices can be used for extra garnish.

No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert

What to Serve With

Fresh fruit salad: A simple citrus or mixed-berry salad brightens the plate.
Light coffee or tea: A cup of brewed coffee or an herbal tea balances the sweetness.
Vanilla or caramel ice cream: A small scoop pairs nicely for extra indulgence.
Lemon or raspberry sauce: Drizzle for added tartness and color contrast.
Sparkling lemonade or prosecco: Great for brunch or celebratory gatherings.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient substitutions: Use crushed vanilla wafers for the crust if you prefer a sweeter base. Greek yogurt can replace some cream cheese for a tangier, lighter filling.
Timing adjustments: Chill at least 2 hours; overnight yields cleaner slices and improved flavor meld.
Flavor enhancements: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for brightness. A pinch of cinnamon on banana slices prevents browning longer.
Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t skip draining the pineapple — excess liquid will make the filling runny. Avoid overbeating the whipped cream; it should be smooth and just-stable.
Presentation tip: For neat slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice with smooth, single strokes.

For a richer cake-style dessert, check out the apple cream cheese bundt cake with caramel pecan topping for more inspiration and flavor ideas.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fresh fruit may soften slightly over time.
Freezing: This dessert is not ideal for long-term freezing because fresh fruit texture changes when frozen. You can freeze the crust alone for up to 1 month, then assemble fresh when ready.
Shelf life details: Best enjoyed within 48 hours for optimal fruit texture and whipped cream stability.
Reheating: No reheating needed. If the whipped cream softens, briefly re-chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert without strawberries or bananas?
Yes. Substitute any firm fruit you enjoy, such as kiwi, peaches, or mixed berries. Just slice uniformly for an even layer.

How far in advance can I assemble this dessert?
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead. Overnight chilling improves flavor, but fruit may release a little juice, so serve within 48 hours for the best texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or whipped topping instead?
Low-fat cream cheese will work but may be slightly less creamy. I don’t recommend whipped topping as a direct swap for whipped heavy cream — it’s sweeter and can change the texture.

Is this dessert suitable for a crowd?
Absolutely. A 9×13” pan serves about 12–16 portions, depending on serving size. It’s perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

What if my crust doesn’t set properly?
Press the crust firmly and chill in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps it firm up and stay crisp.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Cream Cheese Dessert is a simple, satisfying treat that brings big flavor with minimal effort — ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a no-stress dessert for guests. The layers of graham crust, tangy pineapple-cream cheese, fresh fruit, and whipped cream make each bite feel special, and it’s easy to adapt with your favorite fruits or toppings. If you enjoy experimenting with no-bake cheesecakes and want a classic reference, I recommend the Perfect No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe – Sally’s Baking for tips on achieving silky-smooth, foolproof no-bake cheesecake texture. Give this recipe a try, share it with family, and enjoy the compliments that follow.