Description
Million Dollar Pie is a luscious, no-bake dessert featuring a graham cracker crust filled with a creamy mixture of sweetened condensed milk, tangy lemon juice, tropical fruits, crunchy pecans, and fluffy Cool Whip. Topped with toasted coconut and pecans, this refreshing pie is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (divided: 1/3 cup toasted, rest untoasted)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, well drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans (reserve 1-2 tablespoons for topping)
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate to form an even crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely.
- Toast the Coconut: Spread 1/3 cup of the sweetened flaked coconut evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring once midway, until lightly toasted. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, drained mandarin oranges, and chopped pecans, reserving 1 to 2 tablespoons of pecans for topping. Then fold in the Cool Whip along with the untoasted coconut. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Pie: Spoon the prepared filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the toasted coconut and the reserved chopped pecans over the top to finish.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, allowing it to firm up and flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish the pie with maraschino cherries for added color and sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple and mandarin oranges are well drained to prevent a soggy crust or filling.
- Do not overmix the filling when folding in Cool Whip to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
- This pie is best served chilled and should be kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor; bottled lemon juice may alter taste.
