Description
Million Dollar Pie is a luscious, no-bake dessert featuring a creamy filling made with sweetened condensed milk, crushed pineapple, coconut, nuts, and whipped topping, all set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. This refreshing pie is perfect for gatherings and requires minimal preparation, chilling for several hours to develop its rich flavors and smooth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- â…“ cup sugar
- 6 tbsp melted unsalted butter
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans
- Maraschino cherries
- Toasted coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well blended and resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to create an even base.
- Chill or Bake the Crust: For a no-bake option, refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes until set. Alternatively, bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and chopped maraschino cherries if using. Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the filling mixture is smooth and evenly combined, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the chilled or cooled crust.
- Garnish the Pie: Decorate the top with whipped cream, chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut if desired, for an appealing presentation.
- Chill to Set: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
- Serve: Serve the pie chilled, adding extra whipped cream to each slice if preferred.
Notes
- This pie is best served chilled and should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its texture.
- Adjust the amount of nuts and cherries according to your preference or dietary restrictions.
- For a toasted coconut garnish, lightly toast coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
- The crust can be baked for added firmness, but chilling alone is sufficient for a no-bake crust.
- Leftover pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
