Hello again! Today I’m sharing one of my favorite summer desserts that’s perfect when you want something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. This tropical no-bake strawberry split cake is like having a strawberry shortcake and a pineapple upside-down cake all rolled into one delicious treat.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Cake
This easy no-bake cake is perfect for hot summer days when you want a cool, refreshing dessert without heating up your kitchen. With layers of creamy filling, fresh strawberries, and tropical pineapple, it tastes like a vacation in every bite. Plus, it feeds a crowd and can be made ahead of time – perfect for parties and family gatherings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 250 per slice
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can crushed pineapple, drained (20 ounces)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups whipped cream (for filling)
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
How to Make This Amazing No-Bake Cake
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until everything is well blended and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish to create an even crust. Put it in the refrigerator to chill while you make the next layer.
Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Slowly mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over your chilled crust.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Strawberries
Layer the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese filling. Try to cover the whole surface so every slice gets plenty of strawberries.
Step 4: Make the Pineapple Pudding Layer
In another bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with milk until it starts to thicken (this takes about 2 minutes). Fold in the drained pineapple until everything is smooth and well mixed. Spread this tropical mixture over the strawberries.
Step 5: Top It Off
Top everything with a generous layer of whipped cream, spreading it evenly across the whole cake. Add fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful garnish that shows everyone what delicious flavors are waiting inside.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Put the cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours. For the best results, leave it overnight. This gives all the layers time to set up perfectly and makes it much easier to slice.
Serving and Storage Tips
This cake serves 12 people and is perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or family dinners. Cut it into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for the neatest slices.
Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend together – some people think it tastes even better the next day!
Make-Ahead Tips
This is the perfect make-ahead dessert! You can prepare the entire cake up to 2 days before you need it. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Add the final strawberry garnish right before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is really soft before mixing to avoid lumps
- Drain the pineapple well to prevent the cake from getting watery
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing
- Don’t skip the chilling time – it’s what makes this cake perfect
- For extra flavor, add a splash of pineapple juice to the pudding layer
Fun Variations to Try
- Add toasted coconut flakes for extra tropical flavor
- Try different berries like blueberries or raspberries
- Add a layer of sliced bananas for a true banana split feel
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce before serving
This tropical no-bake strawberry split cake is going to become your new favorite summer dessert. It’s easy to make, looks impressive, and tastes absolutely amazing. Your family and friends will be asking for the recipe after just one bite!
