If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite, the Million Dollar Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious, no-bake pie combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of sweetened condensed milk, the delightful crunch of nuts, and the light, fluffy texture of whipped topping. It’s a Southern classic that’s incredibly simple to put together yet impressive enough to wow family and friends. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this recipe are straightforward and wonderfully complementary, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the zesty lemon juice adding brightness to the sweetness of the tropical pineapple and coconut, and the buttery crust providing the perfect foundation for the creamy filling.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): This is the creamy, sweet glue that brings the pie filling together with a rich, luscious texture.
- Crushed pineapple (1 can, 20 oz, drained): Adds juicy, tropical sweetness and a bit of tanginess to brighten the pie.
- Shredded sweetened coconut (1 cup): Brings chewy texture and that irresistible coconut flavor, making every bite a tropical escape.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup): Introduces a wonderfully nutty crunch that balances the creamy filling perfectly.
- Maraschino cherries, chopped (½ cup, optional): For bursts of vibrant color and a sweet, fruity pop that looks festive and tastes fun.
- Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp): Just the right amount to add a fresh zing and prevent the pie from being overly sweet.
- Whipped topping (1 container, 8 oz): Lightens the filling and gives the pie its classic fluffy texture.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups): The base of your crust, offering a sweet, slightly crunchy foundation.
- Sugar (⅓ cup): Enhances the crust’s sweetness and helps it hold together beautifully.
- Melted unsalted butter (6 tbsp): Binds the crust ingredients and adds a rich buttery flavor to every bite.
- Whipped cream, chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, toasted coconut (for garnish): These final touches make the pie look irresistible and add texture and extra flavor when serving.
How to Make Million Dollar Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture feels like damp sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. You have two options here: chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes if you want a no-bake crust, or bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes for a slightly crisper base. Either way, let it cool completely before adding the filling to ensure it sets well.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and maraschino cherries if you’re using them. Stir in fresh lemon juice to add a touch of brightness that cuts through the sweetness. Finally, gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is well blended but still light and airy. This is the heart of the Million Dollar Pie Recipe—the filling is creamy, fruity, and perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Take your cooled crust and spread the filling evenly over it, smoothing the top with a spatula. This step is as satisfying as it is simple because you’re bringing all those fantastic flavors together in one irresistible dessert.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least four hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling time is crucial because it allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to marry beautifully, reinforcing why this is a true Million Dollar Pie Recipe. You want it well chilled before serving for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Million Dollar Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, crown your pie with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Scatter chopped pecans on top for crunch and color, add a few whole maraschino cherries for that classic pop of bright red, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some toasted coconut to bring out a toasty, aromatic note that complements the filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light sides that don’t overpower its flavors. Think fresh fruit salad, a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of tropical fruit coulis. The goal is to keep the focus on the pie while enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to elevate your presentation? Serve each slice on a decorative plate, add a sprig of fresh mint for color, or serve the pie in individual clear glasses layered with extra chopped pineapple and toasted coconut. This turns your Million Dollar Pie Recipe into a personalized dessert experience that feels truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed your pie, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the next slice just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to save the pie for later, it can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you want a softer texture after refrigeration, just let the pie sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy consistency to shine.
FAQs
Can I make the Million Dollar Pie Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version and use coconut-based whipped topping to make this pie dairy-free. The flavor and texture will remain wonderfully close to the original.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it well to keep the filling from becoming too watery. Fresh pineapple will add a bright, natural sweetness that’s just delicious in this pie.
Is it possible to use a baked crust instead of a no-bake crust?
Yes, baking the crust adds a lovely crunch and depth of flavor. Bake it at 350°F for 8-10 minutes and then cool completely before adding your filling for the best results.
What nuts work best in the pie?
Pecans and walnuts are both fantastic choices since they add a subtle crunch and buttery flavor that complement the sweetness. Feel free to mix or substitute if you prefer.
How long should the pie chill before serving?
For the perfect slice, chill the pie for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal to let the flavors meld and the filling set perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Million Dollar Pie Recipe—it brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dessert that feels indulgent, nostalgic, and downright delicious. Whether you’re sharing it with family at a holiday dinner or bringing it to a friend’s gathering, this pie is sure to earn rave reviews and requests for seconds. So go on, give it a try and make this gorgeous, creamy pie a treasured part of your dessert repertoire!
Print
Million Dollar Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (optional crust baking)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Million Dollar Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a creamy pineapple and coconut filling set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. This sweet, tropical treat combines the richness of sweetened condensed milk with shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and a touch of maraschino cherries for vibrant flavor and texture. Perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a refreshing, effortless pie.
Ingredients
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 bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted unsalted butter, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened. This forms the base for the pie.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to create an even layer.
- Chill or Bake the Crust: For a no-bake crust, chill the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until set. Alternatively, bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden, then let it cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and optional chopped maraschino cherries. Stir together to blend flavors.
- Add Lemon Juice and Whipped Topping: Mix in the fresh lemon juice thoroughly, then gently fold in the whipped topping until the filling is smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the creamy filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Garnish the Pie: Decorate the surface with whipped cream, additional chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut if desired to add flavor and visual appeal.
- Chill to Set: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step is essential to let the filling firm up and flavors meld.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pie chilled. Optionally, garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- This pie is best enjoyed chilled and should be kept refrigerated until serving.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or walnuts.
- To toast coconut, place shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.
- Allowing the pie to chill overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Use sweetened shredded coconut to maintain the dessert’s sweetness balance.
