Ingredients
(Professional Tip: Toast the coconut lightly for deeper flavor!)
Crust & Layers:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 sheets, crushed)
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (+ extra for garnish)
- ¼ cup melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan)
Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese , softened (or vegan cream cheese)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp rum extract (or 2 tbsp dark rum for boozy version)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple , drained well (save juice for optional glaze)
Topping:
- 1 cup whipped cream (or coconut whipped cream)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Optional Pineapple Glaze:
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (from drained pineapple)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Crust:
Mix graham crumbs, ½ cup coconut, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish. Chill 15 minutes.Prepare the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream, vanilla, and rum extract until stiff peaks form.
- Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture. Gently stir in drained pineapple.
Layer the Cake:
- Spread half the filling over the crust. Add a layer of graham crackers (broken to fit).
- Repeat with remaining filling and another cracker layer.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to set.Add Topping & Glaze:
- Spread whipped cream over the cake. Sprinkle with toasted coconut and cherries.
- For Glaze: Simmer pineapple juice and sugar until thickened (2-3 minutes). Brush over the top.
Pro Tips for Success