If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s blissfully simple, ultra-creamy, and just a little bit nostalgic, this Million Dollar Pie is about to steal your heart (and every picnic spotlight). With its sunny blend of pineapple, coconut, and a cloud of whipped topping nestled in a graham cracker crust, this classic no-bake pie is pure Southern charm. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how every bite delivers a sweet, tropical escape—the kind of treat friends and family will talk about long after the plates are licked clean.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Crust and Garnish:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust (9-inch)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Million Dollar Pie
Step 1: Whisk the Creamy Base
Grab your favorite large mixing bowl. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and the lemon juice. Whisk them together until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened. This is the secret to that luscious, tangy-sweet filling that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 2: Stir in the Pineapple, Coconut, and Pecans
Fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Take your time here—you want everything evenly distributed, so every bite is packed with tropical flavor and delightful crunch.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
It’s time to make the magic happen! Gently fold in the whipped topping, working carefully to keep the mixture as fluffy as possible. You’re looking for a light, airy filling that holds together but still feels like a cloud—take care not to over-mix.
Step 4: Fill the Graham Cracker Crust
Spoon the mixture into your graham cracker pie crust, using a spatula to smooth the top. This is where it starts to look like Million Dollar Pie. Make those swirls and swoops extra pretty—you eat with your eyes first!
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait). Giving it time to chill not only helps the flavors meld, but ensures you’ll get picture-perfect slices every time.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, crown the pie with maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans for a classic, joyful finish. That’s it—get ready for big smiles all around!
How to Serve Million Dollar Pie
Garnishes
A few maraschino cherries bobbing atop each slice feel absolutely iconic, but don’t let tradition stop you! A handful of toasted coconut or extra pecans add crunch and color. You can also pipe a ring of whipped topping around the edge for a real bakery-style finish.
Side Dishes
This pie is deservedly the star of any dessert spread, but you can easily round out the sweetness with some fresh berries or a bowl of juicy melon on the side. For summer barbecues, consider serving Million Dollar Pie alongside crisp lemonade or iced tea for ultimate refreshment.
Creative Ways to Present
Million Dollar Pie shines as a showstopping centerpiece, but don’t be afraid to have fun! Try spooning the mixture into mini graham cracker crusts or parfait cups for adorable, single-serve treats. These are perfect for parties, picnics, or anytime you want to make everyone feel a little extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to end up with leftovers (good luck!), simply cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Million Dollar Pie will stay fresh and scrumptious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Want to make Million Dollar Pie even further in advance? Freeze the entire pie, well wrapped in both plastic wrap and foil, for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving—the texture will remain perfectly creamy and dreamy.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled pie, reheating isn’t necessary! Simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure it’s just the right temperature—not too cold, but still luxuriously cool and set.
FAQs
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of a whipped topping?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream lends a lovely freshness. Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks to help the pie set. Keep in mind homemade whipped cream is a bit less stable, so the pie is best enjoyed within a day or two.
What if I don’t have a pre-made graham cracker crust?
No crust? No problem! You can quickly press together your own with crushed graham crackers, a little melted butter, and sugar. Bake it for about 10 minutes, then let it cool before adding the filling.
Can I make Million Dollar Pie with different fruits?
Yes! While pineapple is a beloved classic, you can swap in well-drained mandarin oranges or try chopped peaches for a unique twist. Just keep the fruit juicy but not watery for the ideal pie texture.
How far ahead can I make Million Dollar Pie?
This is the ultimate make-ahead dessert! You can safely prepare the pie up to 24 hours before serving for the best flavor and sliceability. In fact, chilling overnight is highly encouraged.
Is Million Dollar Pie gluten-free?
The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so if you use a gluten-free graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade), you’re set. Always double check ingredient labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that ticks every box—fast, fun, and fabulously delicious—give Million Dollar Pie a try. There’s a reason it’s adored at gatherings big and small. It’s one of those easy recipes you’ll soon know by heart, and after just one bite, I’m willing to bet you’ll be hooked for life.
PrintMillion Dollar Pie Recipe
Million Dollar Pie is a luscious, no-bake dessert featuring a creamy, tropical filling with pineapple, coconut, and pecans in a graham cracker crust. This easy-to-make pie is a perfect treat for summer gatherings or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Crust and Garnish:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust (9-inch)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Gently fold in: the whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy.
- Spoon the mixture into: the graham cracker pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish with: maraschino cherries or extra pecans before serving if desired.
Fold in: the drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
Notes
- This pie is best made the day before and chilled overnight for perfect slicing.
- You can make it into mini pies or parfait cups for individual servings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
