Irresistible Pina Colada Lush Dessert Recipe to Try Today

Name: Pina Colada Lush
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained; ½ cup full-fat coconut milk; 2 cups whipped topping; 1 cup fresh chopped pineapple (or canned); ½ cup shredded toasted coconut

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

April 21, 2025

Updated:

April 21, 2025

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There’s something undeniably magical about the tropical flavors of a Pina Colada Lush. Picture creamy layers of pineapple and coconut, all dancing together to create a delightful dessert that instantly transports you to a sunny beach, complete with swaying palm trees and the sound of waves crashing in the background. Trust me, one bite and you’ll feel like you’re on vacation, even if your only trip this year was to the grocery store.

This indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply treating yourself after a long week. I can still remember that first time I made it—my friends devoured it like it was the last dessert on Earth! The vibrant colors and irresistible flavors will have everyone begging for more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pina Colada Lush is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any skill level
Its flavor profile is a delightful blend of sweet and tropical, truly refreshing for warm days
The stunning visual appeal will impress your guests and brighten up any table setting
Versatile enough to serve as a dessert or party treat, it’s sure to be a hit!

I still chuckle thinking about the time my cousin mistook this lush dessert for an actual cocktail and tried to sip it through a straw. It was hilarious watching her get whipped cream all over her face!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Graham Cracker Crust: Choose finely crushed graham crackers for a sweet base that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Pineapple Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese mixed with crushed pineapple for that signature Pina Colada flavor.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds richness; don’t skimp on quality for maximum creaminess.
Whipped Topping: Opt for whipped topping or homemade whipped cream for that fluffy texture on top.
Chopped Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds brightness; feel free to use canned if fresh isn’t available.
Shredded Coconut: Toasted coconut gives extra crunch; sprinkle generously on top before serving.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Crust: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to form a sturdy crust.

Create the Filling: In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in crushed pineapple and coconut milk while mixing gently until fully combined. The aroma should remind you of sunny beaches.

Add Layers of Flavor: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust evenly. Add half of your chopped pineapple on top and then repeat layers using remaining ingredients—this creates that beautiful lush effect everyone loves.

Chill Your Creation: Cover your dish with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate it for at least four hours or overnight if possible—allowing flavors to meld together is crucial! You’ll want to see how it sets up beautifully like an art piece.

Top It Off!: Once chilled, remove your Pina Colada Lush from the fridge and spread whipped topping over the top layer generously. Finish by sprinkling toasted shredded coconut across its surface along with any remaining pineapple chunks for flair.

Now grab those plates because it’s time to slice into this tropical dream!

Whether enjoyed solo after a long day or shared at gatherings with friends, this Pina Colada Lush will definitely become one of your go-to recipes when warm weather rolls around again!

You Must Know

The Pina Colada Lush is a tropical delight that’s not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to make
The combination of creamy textures and fruity flavors will satisfy your sweet tooth while transporting you straight to a beachside paradise
Perfect for gatherings or a lazy weekend treat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the crust, then layer the creamy filling while chilling it in the fridge to set properly. This sequence ensures that every layer has its perfect texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap crushed pineapple with fresh fruit or add coconut flakes for extra crunch. Personalizing this dessert can make it truly yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Enjoy it cold for the best flavor experience.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a perfectly layered Pina Colada Lush, chill each layer completely before adding the next
Always drain excess liquid from fruits to avoid sogginess
Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture that melts in your mouth

Sharing this treat with friends at our annual summer BBQ led to everyone asking for seconds — and I’ll admit, I might have had thirds myself!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for cream cheese in Pina Colada Lush?

Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese works well as a lighter alternative.

Can I make Pina Colada Lush ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s best prepared a day in advance for optimal flavor and texture.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for the crust without compromising taste.

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