Pina Colada Lush

A pina colada lush dessert is the perfect trick when you want a sweet treat without the hassle of turning on the oven. Aptly named, a lush dessert typically features some kind of crumbly crust, cream cheese and pudding fillings, and a whipped topping. You’ll find lush desserts in many flavors, from strawberry to lemon or chocolate—let whatever kind of pudding you love be your guide. It’s an old-fashioned treat that tastes like heaven with every spoonful.

Our pina colada lush recipe takes the tropical flavors of a pina colada—pineapple and coconut—and turns them into a delicious no-bake dessert with a graham cracker crust. It’s easy to make and enjoy: just mix, layer, chill and eat. Whether hosting a summer party or simply craving something quicker than cake, this pina colada lush dessert is an effortless addition to your summer dessert recipes.

Pina Colada Lush Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: The subtle honey flavor of graham crackers provides a sweet and slightly crunchy foundation. Use a food processor or blender to get a finer texture crumb, or place the graham crackers in a heavy-duty storage bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Butter: Make sure the butter is fully melted and slightly cooled before mixing it with the graham cracker crumbs to get a firm, cohesive crust.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture for the crust.
• Cream cheese: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to get a lump-free layer.
• Crushed pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cream cheese layer too runny.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Confectioners’ sugar helps sweeten the cream cheese filling and enhance its silky texture.
• Vanilla extract: Opt for one of the best vanilla extract brands for a richer, more authentic flavor.
• Whole milk: Using very cold milk will help the pudding thicken faster. You can also use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a more intense flavor.
• Instant coconut cream pudding mix: The pudding mix adds a rich coconut flavor and creates a velvety, thick layer that sets quickly. No need for cooking!
• Frozen whipped topping: The frozen whipped topping creates fluffy layers inside and on top of the pina colada lush recipe.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet or oven to enhance its nutty flavor and add a crunchy topping.
• Maraschino cherries (optional): Garnish the pina colada lush dessert with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and a sweet, fruity finish.

Directions

Step 1: Form the crust

In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, butter and brown sugar until combined. Press onto the bottom and up the sides of a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the pineapple filling

In a second bowl, beat together the cream cheese, drained pineapple and confectioners’ sugar. Stir in the vanilla extract. Spread the mixture onto the crust.

Step 3: Mix the pudding and form the layers

In the same bowl, whisk the milk and pudding mix together until thickened, about two minutes. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping, and spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese mixture. Top with the remaining whipped topping.

Step 4: Add the toppings and chill

Sprinkle the top with toasted coconut. Refrigerate the lush, covered, until set, about three hours. Garnish with cherries if desired.

Editor’s Tip: If using maraschino cherries as a garnish, blot them with a paper towel first to remove excess liquid and to prevent them from bleeding into the whipped topping.

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Recipe Variations

• Change the crust: For a slightly different base that adds a touch of sweetness, swap in a crushed vanilla wafer or shortbread cookie crust for the graham cracker crust.
• Add some chocolate: Mix in a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate pudding instead of coconut cream to create a rich, decadent variation with a coconut-chocolate flavor combination.
• Play with puddings: Experiment with other pudding flavors, such as vanilla, banana or chocolate, for a different twist on the classic pina colada flavor.
• Make it boozy: Add a tablespoon or two of rum to the cream cheese layer or the pudding mixture for a boozy twist that mimics the classic cocktail.

How to Store Pina Colada Lush

Cover the pina colada lush recipe tightly with storage wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Keep it chilled until serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent the layers from becoming too soft.

How long does pina colada lush last?

This pina colada lush dessert should last three to five days when stored properly.

Can you freeze pina colada lush?

We don’t recommend freezing a pina colada lush dessert because the whipped topping and cream cheese layer may become grainy or lose their smooth texture when thawed.

Can you make pina colada lush ahead of time?

A pina colada lush recipe is a great make-ahead dessert. You can make yours one to two days ahead of serving.

Pina Colada Lush Tips

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What can you serve with pina colada lush?

Our pina colada lush dessert is an excellent addition to any of these delicious pina colada-inspired recipes. It makes the perfect finale to a platter of crispy coconut shrimp or grilled fish tacos with coconut-infused rice or sweet plantain chips.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make the pina colada lush recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, the crust can be made with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or another gluten-free cookie crumb.