Million Dollar Pie is a creamy, no-bake dessert loaded with tropical flavors and rich textures. This classic treat combines sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, pineapple, and coconut in a graham cracker crust, creating a decadent pie that’s both easy to make and a delight to eat. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion, it’s a pie that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and No-Bake: Perfect for when you want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and tropical flavors are universally loved.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Crushed pineapple, drained
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Lemon juice
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the Ingredients: Fold in the whipped topping, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts until evenly combined.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries or additional whipped topping if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or papaya for extra tropical flavor.
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Use a chocolate graham cracker crust or mix in mini chocolate chips.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts and add more coconut or a crunchy topping like crushed graham crackers.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free whipped topping and condensed milk for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure you drain it thoroughly to avoid making the filling watery.
2. Can I make my own graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! Mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted butter and press into a pie pan.
3. What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can substitute freshly whipped cream, but the texture may be slightly less firm.
4. How long does it take to set?
The pie needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly.
5. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, almonds, macadamia nuts, or pistachios work well as alternatives.
6. Is this pie suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
7. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
8. What’s the best way to slice the pie neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between cuts.
9. Can I add extra fruit?
Yes, blueberries, strawberries, or mandarin oranges make great additions.
10. Is this pie gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free graham cracker crust to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Pie is a simple yet luxurious dessert that delivers on flavor and texture. Its tropical ingredients and creamy filling make it a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying it as a casual treat or a party showpiece, this no-bake pie is sure to impress. Give it a try and see why it’s called the Million Dollar Pie!
PrintMillion Dollar Pie
This creamy, no-bake pie lives up to its name with its rich, sweet, and tropical flavors. A buttery graham cracker crust is filled with a luscious mixture of pineapple, coconut, and whipped topping, making it an easy and indulgent dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Desserts, No-Bake Pies
- Method: No-bake, chilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the crust (optional if not using store-bought):
- 200 g (2 cups) graham cracker crumbs
- 75 g (1/3 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 1 can (397 g or 14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (227 g or 8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 240 ml (1 cup) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), plus more for garnish
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade if preferred)
For garnish (optional):
- Whipped topping
- Extra shredded coconut
- Chopped pecans
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
Prepare the crust (if making homemade):
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides. Chill for 20 minutes in the refrigerator, or bake at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes if a firmer crust is desired. Allow to cool before filling.
2. Prepare the filling:
- In a large bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, drained pineapple, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using).
- Stir in the lemon juice until combined. Fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
3. Assemble the pie:
- Pour the filling into the pre-made or homemade crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Chill and garnish:
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and maraschino cherries, if desired.
5. Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy this rich and creamy delight!
Notes
- You can substitute the nuts with mini chocolate chips for a kid-friendly twist.
- For a more citrusy flavor, add some orange zest to the filling.
- This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.