Description
Million Dollar Pie is a delicious no-bake dessert featuring a graham cracker crust filled with a creamy mixture of sweetened condensed milk, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, nuts, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make pie is perfect for warm days or anytime you want a quick, crowd-pleasing treat with tropical flavors and a luscious texture.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ 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, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted unsalted butter until well combined to form a crumbly mixture.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan to create the crust base.
- Chill or Bake the Crust: For a no-bake crust, refrigerate the pie shell for 30 minutes to set. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, then allow to cool completely before filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, drained crushed pineapple, shredded sweetened coconut, chopped pecans or walnuts, and chopped maraschino cherries if using.
- Add Lemon Juice and Whipped Topping: Stir in the fresh lemon juice thoroughly, then gently fold in the whipped topping until the filling is smooth and evenly blended.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the chilled or baked pie crust to form the pie.
- Garnish the Pie: Top the pie with decorations such as whipped cream, chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut if desired for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Chill and Set: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set firmly.
- Serve: Slice the pie and serve chilled. Add extra whipped cream on each slice if preferred for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- The crust can be either no-bake or baked depending on your preference; baking provides a crispier texture.
- Draining the pineapple well is important to avoid excess moisture that can make the pie soggy.
- Chilling the pie overnight improves the flavor melding and firming of the filling.
- Toasted coconut adds a nice crunchy texture and depth of flavor but is optional.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best tang and to balance the sweetness.
- You can substitute pecans or walnuts based on preference or availability.