Creamy, cool, and irresistibly nostalgic, Million Dollar Pie is a classic no-bake dessert that feels luxurious while being wonderfully simple to prepare. With a fluffy filling loaded with crushed pineapple, sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and a bright touch of lemon, all set in a buttery graham cracker crust, this pie delivers rich flavor without ever turning on the oven. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears quickly at gatherings and always earns requests for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect when you want a dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal effort. It comes together in minutes, uses easy-to-find pantry ingredients, and needs only chilling time to set. The balance of creamy sweetness, tangy fruit, and nutty crunch keeps every bite interesting, while the no-bake method makes it ideal for warm days or busy schedules. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dessert, freeing you up to enjoy your event stress-free.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 prepared graham cracker crusts, 9-inch each
1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 ounces
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 can crushed pineapple, 20 ounces, very well drained
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1 container whipped topping, 8 ounces, thawed
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice together until smooth and slightly thickened. Add the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans, stirring gently until evenly combined. Fold in the thawed whipped topping with a light hand to keep the mixture airy and fluffy.
Divide the filling evenly between the two graham cracker crusts, spreading it smoothly to the edges. Cover the pies and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. For best texture and clean slices, chilling overnight is recommended. Serve well chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes two 9-inch pies. Each pie serves about 8 to 10 people, for a total of 16 to 20 servings.
Preparation time is about 10 to 15 minutes.
Chilling time is a minimum of 4 hours, ideally overnight.
Variations
For a fruitier version, fold in ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries or drained mandarin oranges. For extra richness, blend in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with the condensed milk before adding the other ingredients. Toasting the pecans before mixing enhances their nutty flavor. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans or add extra coconut for a stronger tropical note.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even better after the first day. This pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as this dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I make Million Dollar Pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is ideal for making a day in advance and chilling overnight.
Why is my pie runny?
Excess moisture from the pineapple is usually the cause. Make sure it is very well drained.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, bottled lemon juice works, though fresh juice gives a brighter flavor.
Is this pie overly sweet?
The lemon juice and pineapple balance the sweetness, keeping it rich but not cloying.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, stabilized whipped cream can be used, but it may set slightly softer.
How long does it take to fully set?
At least 4 hours, though overnight chilling gives the best texture.
Can I freeze one pie for later?
Absolutely. Freeze tightly wrapped and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of pecans?
Chopped walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes.
Can I make this in a single deep-dish crust?
Yes, but the pie will be thicker and may need longer chilling time.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, making two pies makes it perfect for parties and potlucks.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Pie proves that a truly memorable dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With its creamy texture, tropical flavors, and effortless preparation, it’s a timeless recipe that continues to win hearts across generations. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed as a simple family treat, this pie delivers comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence in every chilled slice.
Million Dollar Pie is a creamy, no-bake dessert made with crushed pineapple, coconut, pecans, and whipped topping in a graham cracker crust. It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
2 prepared graham cracker crusts, 9-inch each
1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 ounces
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 can crushed pineapple, 20 ounces, very well drained
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1 container whipped topping, 8 ounces, thawed
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add the well-drained crushed pineapple, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans. Stir gently to combine.
Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently to keep the mixture airy and fluffy.
Divide the filling evenly between the two graham cracker crusts, spreading it smoothly to the edges.
Cover the pies and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Serve well chilled.
Notes
Ensure the crushed pineapple is very well drained to prevent a runny pie.
Chilling overnight gives the best texture and cleanest slices.
You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
Toasting the pecans before mixing enhances flavor.
The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed in the fridge before serving.
