This Layered Pina Colada Dessert is a tropical escape in every bite, blending creamy coconut, tangy pineapple, and a buttery graham cracker crust. With just 20 minutes of prep and a couple of hours to chill, it’s an effortless treat that feels indulgent yet refreshing. The silky layers melt in your mouth, while the sweet and tangy flavors dance on your palate, making it perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dessert night.
Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast of textures—crunchy crust, velvety filling, and a hint of tropical fruitiness. At 278 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting or treating yourself, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to enjoy.
Ingredients for Layered Pina Colada Dessert (Lush)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup butter, melted (unsalted or salted, depending on preference)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature (softened for easy mixing)
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for other recipes if desired)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure or imitation)
- 2 cups milk (2% or whole milk recommended)
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 1 carton (8 ounces) Cool Whip Whipped Topping, thawed and divided
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted (toast in a skillet or oven for extra flavor)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the next layer.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, and powdered sugar together until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove the crust from the fridge and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: Rinse out the bowl used for the cream cheese mixture. In the same bowl, whisk together the milk and instant coconut cream pudding mix for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in 1 cup of the Cool Whip until fully incorporated. Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the final layer: Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer as the final topping.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut over the top. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to set and firm up.
- Serve: If desired, top each serving with a maraschino cherry for a festive touch. Slice and enjoy!
Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Pina Colada Dessert
While toasted coconut and maraschino cherries are classic toppings, you can get creative! Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or dark chocolate ganache for a decadent twist. Fresh pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of lime zest can also add a refreshing touch. For a tropical vibe, garnish with a few toasted macadamia nuts or a splash of rum-infused whipped cream.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This layered dessert is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right drink can take it to the next level. Serve it alongside a cold glass of iced coffee or a tropical smoothie for a delightful contrast. If you’re hosting a party, consider offering mini versions in individual cups for easy serving. Don’t forget to add a colorful cocktail umbrella for a fun, festive touch!
Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh
This dessert is best stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, wait to add the toasted coconut and cherries until just before serving to keep them from getting soggy. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the layers may change.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers
Short on time? Use pre-made graham cracker crust instead of making your own. You can also substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if you prefer, but store-bought saves a step. To speed up the chilling process, place the dessert in the freezer for 30-45 minutes before transferring it to the fridge to finish setting.
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Feel free to customize this dessert to suit your taste! Swap the coconut cream pudding for vanilla or banana cream pudding for a different flavor profile. For a nutty twist, mix chopped pecans into the crust. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, try using mango puree or even strawberry jam in the cream cheese layer. The possibilities are endless!
Layered Pina Colada Dessert Recipe (Lush)
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package cream cheese, (8 ounces), room temperature
- 1 can crushed pineapple, (8 ounces), drained
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pudding Layer
- 2 cups milk, (I used 2%, whole milk works great too)
- 1 package instant coconut cream pudding mix, (3.4 ounces)
- 1 carton Cool Whip Whipped Topping, (8 ounces), thawed and divided
Topping
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
- maraschino cherries, optional topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar. Press mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9×13″ baking pan. Place the crust in the fridge while you make the next layer.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, pineapple and powdered sugar together. Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove the prepared crust from the fridge and spread cream cheese mixture onto crust.
- Rinse out the bowl and then use it to mix together the milk and pudding mix. Whisk until it starts to thicken up (it will take about 2 minutes). Fold in 1 cup of the Cool Whip, then spread the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip on top as the final layer.
- Sprinkle with toasted coconut and place dessert in the fridge to set up (let it stay refrigerated for at least 2-3 hours).
- If desired, top each piece with a maraschino cherry when serving.