The Million Dollar Pie is a classic dessert that has been cherished for decades. Known for its rich and creamy texture, this no-bake pie is a perfect combination of sweetness, crunch, and tropical flavors. With a graham cracker crust, a luscious creamy filling, and vibrant toppings, this dessert is a showstopper for any gathering. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or need a last-minute dessert, the Million Dollar Pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped (reserve some for topping)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
For garnishing:
- Sliced pineapple rings
- Whole maraschino cherries
- Extra chopped pecans
- Whipped cream swirls
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring an even layer along the bottom and sides.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice. Stir until thickened.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until well blended.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for a neat finish.
Step 4: Garnish
- Decorate the top of the pie with pineapple rings, whole maraschino cherries, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
- Add dollops of whipped cream around the edges for an extra touch of elegance.
Step 5: Chill
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans if you have nut allergies or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunch.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate to the graham cracker crust before adding the filling for a decadent touch.
- Tropical Flavor: Include diced mango or papaya in the filling for an exotic twist.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free whipped topping and reduced-sugar sweetened condensed milk to make it diabetic-friendly.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid a runny filling.
- Chilling the pie for at least 4 hours is crucial to achieving the right texture and flavor.
- For extra stability, you can add 1 packet of unflavored gelatin (dissolved in warm water) to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
- Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent experience.
Tips
- Use a food processor to crush the graham crackers for a finer texture.
- To make clean slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting and wipe it clean between slices.
- Prepare the pie a day in advance to save time and enhance the flavors.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
Cooking Time
- Cooking Time: No baking required
Total Time
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 35g
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the Million Dollar Pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: While fresh pineapple can be used, it’s essential to cook it first to avoid the enzymes from breaking down the filling.
Q: What can I substitute for whipped topping?
A: You can use freshly whipped cream (stabilized with powdered sugar) as an alternative.
Q: How long does the pie stay fresh?
A: When stored in the refrigerator, the pie stays fresh for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make mini versions of this pie?
A: Absolutely! Use muffin tins or mini tart pans to create individual servings.
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Pie is a true testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Its creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors make it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this pie is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try it today and experience why it’s called the Million Dollar Pie—because it’s worth every bite!