No matter what flavors you like (or don’t like), there’s a perfect no-bake pie recipe out there for you. Coconut and pineapple fans, in particular, will love million-dollar pie, a retro dessert made with just seven ingredients and a little patience. Learn how to make a million-dollar pie that some might say tastes like–ahem—a million bucks.
What is million-dollar pie?
Million-dollar pie is said to have originated in South Carolina in the late 1930s or ’40s, called either “million-dollar” or “millionaire” pie. The recipe likely received its name because of how decadent it is—similar to other million-dollar recipes.
A million-dollar pie recipe typically includes crushed pineapple, shredded coconut and crushed pecans, all held together by whipped topping and sweetened condensed milk. Maraschino cherries are common garnishes, as is a dollop of Cool Whip.
Million-Dollar Pie Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Lemon juice
- Canned crushed pineapple
- Sweetened shredded coconut
- Chopped pecans, divided
- Frozen whipped topping
- Graham cracker crusts
Directions
Step 1: Beat the milk and lemon juice
In a large bowl, beat the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice with a whisk until blended.
Test Kitchen Tip: Fresh lemon juice will amp up the flavor of this pie, but if you don’t have any on hand, store-bought lemon juice works just fine.
Step 2: Add the chunky bits
Stir in the drained pineapple, 3/4 cup toasted shredded coconut and 3/4 cup chopped pecans.
Step 3: Fold in the whipped topping
Fold the thawed frozen whipped topping into the mixture and stir until the coconut, pineapple and pecans are uniform throughout.
Step 4: Pour the filling into the crusts
Pour the million-dollar filling into the two graham cracker crusts. Cover and refrigerate until set, about two hours.
Step 5: Finish with toppings and serve
Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup toasted coconut and 1/4 cup chopped pecans before serving. If desired, top with additional whipped topping and garnish with maraschino cherries.
Million-Dollar Pie Variations
- Make it billionaire pie: If you love cherries, turn million-dollar pie into “billionaire” pie by adding cherry pie filling or chopped maraschino cherries to the filling.
- Add tanginess: Another option is to add cream cheese instead of sweetened condensed milk to million-dollar pie to create more of a cheesecake flavor.
- Swap garnishes: If you want to give your pie a fancier look before serving, top it with toasted coconut chips instead of the shredded coconut.
How to Store Million-Dollar Pie
Store your million-dollar pie in the fridge in a covered container and eat it within a few days, before the graham cracker crust starts to get soggy. If you’re putting a cut pie back in the fridge, press a piece of plastic wrap against the cut side to avoid dried-out edges.
Looking for more? Try our favorite millionaire bars.
