Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience: Ideal for hot days or when you want to keep things simple.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk creates a luscious filling.
- Nutty and Fruity Flavor: Pecans and pineapple add delightful texture and taste.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal ingredients and steps, this pie comes together effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie plate to form an even layer along the bottom and sides.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
- Toast Pecans and Coconut (Optional):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecans and coconut on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk mixture until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, toasted pecans, and coconut.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve:
- Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes
Variations
- No-Bake Version: Skip toasting the pecans and coconut, and use a store-bought graham cracker crust to avoid using the oven entirely.
- Billionaire Pie: Add 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries or a can of cherry pie filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tropical Twist: Substitute crushed pineapple with mango or papaya for a different fruity profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pie without any garnishes. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What is Million Dollar Pie?
Million Dollar Pie is a classic no-bake dessert featuring a creamy filling with pecans, coconut, and crushed pineapple, set in a graham cracker crust.
Why is it called Million Dollar Pie?
The name likely comes from its rich, indulgent flavor that tastes like a “million bucks.”
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal to make it ahead since it requires chilling to set properly.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely, a store-bought graham cracker crust works well and saves time.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Ensure the crust is well-chilled before adding the filling, and make sure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to reduce excess moisture.
Million Dollar Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Million Dollar Pie is a no-bake Southern dessert that combines a creamy whipped filling with crunchy pecans, shredded coconut, and sweet crushed pineapple in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm days, this pie is easy to make and absolutely indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter.
- Press into a 9-inch pie plate, forming an even layer on the bottom and sides.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to set.
Optional: Toast Pecans and Coconut
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecans and coconut on a baking sheet.
- Toast for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned. Cool completely.
Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until combined.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add heavy cream, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk mixture.
- Gently fold in pineapple, pecans, and coconut.
Assemble the Pie
- Spread the filling evenly into the chilled crust.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Serve
- Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy crust.
- For a time-saving option, use a pre-made graham cracker crust.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern