Description
Hawaiian Pie is a delicious no-bake dessert featuring a creamy combination of cream cheese, whipped topping, and crushed pineapple, layered on a graham cracker crust. Enhanced with shredded coconut and optional macadamia nuts, it offers a tropical flavor that’s perfect for warm weather and easy entertaining. Chilled until set, this pie is a refreshing treat garnished with maraschino cherries for a touch of color and sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Garnish
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
- Additional shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps, ensuring a rich base for the pie.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula until the mixture is well combined, preserving the lightness and fluffiness of the filling.
- Add pineapple and mix-ins: Stir in the well-drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and, if using, chopped macadamia nuts to evenly distribute the tropical flavors and texture through the filling.
- Fill the crust: Pour the prepared filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Chill the pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the top with maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut if desired. Slice into 8 servings and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute regular cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese and use light whipped topping.
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it convenient for parties and gatherings.
- If macadamia nuts are not preferred or available, they can be omitted without compromising the flavor.
