This Pina Colada Lush is everything you love about the classic tropical cocktail—layered into a dreamy, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for summer nights, parties, or anytime you need a mini island vacation on a plate. It’s cool, creamy, fruity, and rich without being heavy. The best part? You don’t even need to turn on the oven. If you’re craving something refreshing, sweet, and ridiculously easy to make, this dessert is about to become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tropical Vibes All the Way: Pineapple and coconut are a match made in dessert heaven, and this lush brings those flavors forward in the most delicious way.
No-Bake and No-Stress: This dessert comes together without even touching the oven, making it ideal for hot weather or busy schedules.
Creamy, Crunchy, and Light: From the buttery graham cracker crust to the silky cream cheese layer and fluffy whipped topping, the textures are layered just right.
Perfect for Parties: Make it ahead, chill it, and slice it up when ready—great for serving a crowd or impressing guests at your next BBQ.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to build this tropical treat:

Graham crackers: Crushed into crumbs for a sweet and slightly salty crust that holds everything together.
Butter: Melted and mixed with the crumbs to form that perfect, buttery base.
Cream cheese: Adds a tangy, rich layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet fruit. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer without making it gritty.
Crushed pineapple: Drained well and mixed into the cream layer for juicy bursts of tropical flavor.
Coconut cream or instant coconut pudding: This brings that signature pina colada flavor. Either one works—just go with what’s easier to find.
Milk: Used to mix the pudding if that’s your route—cold milk gives the fluffiest texture.
Whipped topping: Light and airy, it tops off the dessert and keeps things feeling fluffy and refreshing.
Shredded coconut: Lightly toasted or left raw—adds great texture and even more coconut flavor.
Maraschino cherries: Optional but lovely on top for color and a nod to the classic drink garnish.

Variations

Want to play around with this tropical treat? Try these fun ideas:

Boozy Twist: Mix a splash of rum extract or even actual light rum into the cream cheese or pudding layer.
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed macadamia nuts or chopped pecans into the crust or as a topping for a bit of crunch.
Fresh Fruit Topping: Decorate with slices of fresh pineapple, mango, or even kiwi for a colorful, fresh touch.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream cheese and a non-dairy whipped topping for a fully plant-based treat.

How to Make Pina Colada Lush

Step 1: Make the Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a firm, even layer. Chill in the fridge while you prep the filling.

Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in drained crushed pineapple. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Layer

If using instant coconut pudding, whisk it with cold milk until it thickens. If using coconut cream, just spread it straight over the cream cheese layer. Either way, spread evenly to create the next luscious layer.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Top everything with a generous layer of whipped topping, smoothing it over with a spatula.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Sprinkle with shredded coconut, and top with cherries if you’d like. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) to let all the layers set and flavors meld.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Drain the Pineapple Really Well: Press it gently in a sieve to remove as much juice as possible—this keeps the dessert from getting soggy.
Chill Between Layers: If your kitchen is warm or things feel soft, chill each layer for 15–20 minutes before adding the next.
Use Cold Ingredients for the Pudding: If using instant pudding, make sure your milk is straight from the fridge for best thickening results.
Toast the Coconut: Lightly toasting shredded coconut before sprinkling adds a beautiful golden finish and deeper flavor.

How to Serve

This dessert is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few ideas to dress it up:

Garnishes:

Add a lime wedge or a fresh pineapple slice on the plate for a fun tropical touch.

Pair With:

A cup of iced coffee, a chilled tropical tea, or yes—even an actual pina colada if you’re in full vacation mode.

Serve Cold:

This is a chilled dessert through and through—serve straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this, but the texture may change slightly when thawed—especially the whipped topping. If freezing, wrap tightly and eat within 1 month.

Reheating

No need! This dessert is best served cold, straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made a day ahead. The layers firm up, and the flavors blend beautifully overnight.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but it must be very finely chopped and drained well—canned crushed pineapple is softer and more consistent for the creamy layers.

What’s the difference between coconut cream and coconut milk?
Coconut cream is thicker and richer, perfect for dessert layers. Coconut milk is thinner and better for cooking or drinking. Use coconut cream here for the lushest texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
Absolutely! Just whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. It adds a lovely fresh flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dreamy dessert that tastes like a beach vacation in every bite, this Pina Colada Lush is your answer. It’s creamy, cool, coconutty, and full of sunshine. Perfectly easy to throw together, and even easier to devour. Whether for a party or a Tuesday night treat—go ahead and give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you.

Pina Colada Lush Recipe