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If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a dessert that feels luxurious yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, Million Dollar Pie is your answer. This no-fail recipe combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy tropical filling, and toasted coconut and pecans for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a casual weekend treat, this pie is guaranteed to wow your taste buds.
What Makes Million Dollar Pie So Special?
Million Dollar Pie earned its name because it tastes like a million bucks! The creamy filling blends sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, pineapple, and coconut, resulting in a tropical flavor explosion. Paired with a crunchy graham cracker crust, it strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal baking—ideal for busy bakers.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Pie
For the Crust:
- 12 whole graham crackers (180g)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1 cup (113g) chopped pecans
- 1 cup (85g) sweetened desiccated coconut
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, strained
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 8 to 10 maraschino cherries (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and arrange the racks in the bottom and top thirds.
2. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a zip-top bag and rolling pin.
- Mix the crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then pour in the melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Press the crumbs evenly into a 9-inch pie plate, covering the bottom and sides firmly. Use a measuring cup for a smooth finish.
3. Toast the Pecans and Coconut
- Spread the pecans on one side of a baking sheet and the coconut on the other side.
- Place the crust on the bottom oven rack and the baking sheet on the top rack. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring the coconut halfway through to prevent over-browning.
- Let the crust, pecans, and coconut cool completely.
4. Strain the Pineapple
Empty the can of crushed pineapple into a fine mesh strainer. Use a spoon to press out as much juice as possible. Set aside the drained pineapple.
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Tip: Save the pineapple juice for smoothies or cocktails!
5. Start the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the mixture to thicken slightly.
6. Make the Whipped Cream
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar in a stand mixer until smooth.
- Gradually add heavy cream while mixing on medium speed. Beat until stiff peaks form (when the cream holds its shape on the whisk).
- Reserve 1 cup of whipped cream for topping and refrigerate it.
7. Combine the Filling
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture to lighten it.
- Fold in the remaining whipped cream.
- Stir in the drained pineapple, toasted coconut (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping), and toasted pecans (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping).
8. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or until set.
9. Add the Topping
- Remove the pie from the refrigerator. Spread the reserved whipped cream over the top.
- Garnish with the reserved coconut, pecans, and maraschino cherries.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the pie and serve it chilled. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 400 |
Protein | 4g |
Carbohydrates | 40g |
Fat | 25g |
Sugar | 30g |
Sodium | 160mg |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The filling comes together in minutes, and the crust is simple to make.
- Tropical Flavor Explosion: The pineapple and coconut add a sweet, tangy freshness.
- No-Bake Option: Skip toasting the crust and toppings for an entirely no-bake version.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or holiday dinner, this pie fits the bill.
FAQs About Million Dollar Pie
1. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes! A store-bought graham cracker crust works just as well if you’re short on time.
2. Can I make Million Dollar Pie in advance?
Absolutely. You can make this pie up to 2 days ahead. Just add the toppings before serving.
3. Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a perfect substitute as it provides sweetness and consistency. However, you can make your own by simmering whole milk and sugar until thickened.
4. Can I make this pie dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream, dairy-free condensed milk, and vegan butter for the crust.
5. What can I do with leftover filling?
Extra filling can be used to make mini pies or layered into parfaits with crushed graham crackers.
6. How long does Million Dollar Pie last?
Stored in the refrigerator, this pie keeps well for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month.
Conclusion: Indulge in the Sweetness of Million Dollar Pie
Million Dollar Pie is the ultimate dessert when you want something decadent yet easy to make. With its creamy filling, crunchy crust, and tropical toppings, this pie feels like a little slice of luxury. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice on your own, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
Ready to create your Million Dollar Pie? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to wow your taste buds with this indulgent dessert!
PrintNo-Bake Million Dollar Pie – Simple & Sweet
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 8–10 servings
Description
Million Dollar Pie is a dreamy dessert that blends tropical flavors with a rich and creamy filling. A crunchy graham cracker crust holds a luscious mixture of pineapple, coconut, pecans, and sweetened condensed milk, all topped with fluffy whipped cream. This dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, making it a go-to recipe when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 12 whole graham crackers (180g)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling and Topping:
-
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened desiccated coconut
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, strained
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 to 10 maraschino cherries (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 350°F and arrange the racks in the bottom and top thirds.
Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin and a zip-top bag. Combine the crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
Toast the Pecans and Coconut:
Spread the chopped pecans and desiccated coconut on a baking sheet in separate sections. Place the crust on the bottom rack and the baking sheet on the top rack. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring the coconut halfway through to prevent burning. Let everything cool.
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4. Strain the Pineapple:
Pour the crushed pineapple into a fine mesh strainer and press out as much juice as possible using the back of a spoon. Set aside the strained pineapple.
Make the Whipped Cream:
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Slowly add heavy cream while beating until stiff peaks form. Reserve 1 cup of the whipped cream for the topping and refrigerate.
Prepare the Filling:
Whisk together sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice in a large bowl. Fold in one-third of the remaining whipped cream to lighten the mixture, then gently fold in the rest. Stir in the strained pineapple, toasted pecans (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping), and toasted coconut (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping).
Assemble the Pie:
Spoon the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the top. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or until fully set.
Add the Topping:
Spread the reserved whipped cream over the chilled pie. Sprinkle with the reserved toasted pecans and coconut. Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
Serve:
Slice and serve the pie cold. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This pie can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Add the topping just before serving.
- Storage Tip: Store tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Customize It: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, and use crushed cookies instead of graham crackers for a twist on the crust.
- Save the Pineapple Juice: Use the leftover juice in smoothies or cocktails for an added burst of tropical flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (with optional baking for crust)
- Cuisine: American