If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping dessert that’s blissfully easy to make and guaranteed to impress, look no further than Million Dollar Pie. This vintage favorite is a no-bake, creamy dream packed with tropical pineapple, sweet coconut, and a nutty crunch—all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, Million Dollar Pie is a treat that always feels a little extra-special (even though it comes together in minutes!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip, thawed
Garnish (Optional)
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra chopped pecans
How to Make Million Dollar Pie
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combining the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until the mixture thickens—the lemon juice works its magic to create a luscious, pudding-like base that’s the backbone of Million Dollar Pie.
Step 2: Add the Tropical and Nutty Goodness
Next, fold in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and sweetened shredded coconut. These add-ins give the pie its signature texture and burst of flavor in every bite. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid a runny filling.
Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip
Now, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip. This step is all about patience and a light hand—fold just until everything is combined and the filling is fluffy. Overmixing can deflate the pie and make it less airy.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Spoon the creamy filling into your pre-made graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula. For that Million Dollar Pie signature look, finish by garnishing with maraschino cherries and extra chopped pecans. Then, pop the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. Chilling is key for the filling to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Million Dollar Pie
Garnishes
For a true Million Dollar Pie presentation, top your chilled pie with a ring of maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of extra pecans. Not only does this add a festive pop of color and crunch, but it also gives the pie that nostalgic, classic vibe everyone loves.
Side Dishes
Because Million Dollar Pie is so rich and creamy, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Offer up fresh fruit—like sliced strawberries or juicy orange segments—on the side for a refreshing contrast. A hot cup of coffee or tea also makes a perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties and potlucks, try making individual Million Dollar Pie parfaits by layering the filling and crushed graham crackers in small glass jars. Or, cut the chilled pie into bite-sized squares for easy, grab-and-go treats at your next gathering. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time or enjoying a slice whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you’d like a firmer, icebox-style dessert—or just want to save some for later—Million Dollar Pie freezes beautifully! Wrap the whole pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
This sweet treat is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge or after a quick thaw from the freezer. There’s no need to reheat, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let your slice sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully in Million Dollar Pie. Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a couple tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it in where the recipe calls for Cool Whip.
Is there a way to make Million Dollar Pie nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the pecans if you’re avoiding nuts. The pie will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful, with plenty of texture from the coconut and pineapple.
What if I don’t have a pre-made graham cracker crust?
No worries—making your own is easy. Combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup melted butter and 3 tablespoons sugar, press into a 9-inch pie plate, and chill to set before filling.
Can I make Million Dollar Pie in advance?
Definitely! In fact, Million Dollar Pie actually tastes better when made a day ahead, as the flavors have time to meld and the pie sets up perfectly overnight.
Is it possible to use different fruits in the filling?
While crushed pineapple is traditional (and highly recommended for that signature taste), you can experiment with drained mandarin oranges or even chopped peaches for a fun twist. Just be sure any fruit you use is well-drained to keep the filling firm.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Million Dollar Pie enough—it’s a recipe that delivers every single time, with minimal effort and maximum wow factor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer, give it a try and watch as your friends and family swoon over every creamy, coconutty, pineapple-packed bite!
Print
Million Dollar Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Million Dollar Pie is a luscious no-bake dessert featuring a creamy mixture of sweetened condensed milk, tangy lemon juice, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans all nestled in a graham cracker crust. Topped with fluffy Cool Whip and optional maraschino cherries, this easy-to-make tropical pie is perfect for summer gatherings or as a vintage classic treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip, thawed
Garnish (Optional)
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it thickens slightly, which helps develop the creamy texture of the pie.
- Add fruits and nuts: Fold in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Mixing gently ensures even distribution without crushing the pineapple pieces or nuts.
- Incorporate the Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the mixture until fully combined and fluffy. This step adds lightness to the pie’s filling.
- Assemble the pie: Spoon the prepared filling evenly into the pre-made graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a neat finish.
- Add garnish (optional): Decorate the top of the pie with maraschino cherries and extra chopped pecans to enhance both the appearance and crunch.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to set the filling firmly. For best results, make the pie a day ahead and keep it chilled overnight.
Notes
- This pie is best made a day in advance and chilled overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Freezing the pie will yield a firmer, icebox-style dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- Use thawed Cool Whip for proper folding and fluffy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
