Description
Million Dollar Pie is a luscious, no-bake dessert featuring a graham cracker crust filled with a creamy mixture of sweetened condensed milk, fresh citrus, tropical fruits, nuts, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make pie combines toasted coconut, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and crunchy pecans for a delightful balance of textures and flavors, perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, well drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip
Garnish
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool completely.
- Toast the Coconut: Spread 1/3 cup of the sweetened flaked coconut evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 4-6 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even toasting. Once golden brown and fragrant, remove from the oven and allow it to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with fresh lemon juice until blended. Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and most of the chopped pecans, reserving 1-2 tablespoons of pecans for topping. Then fold in the remaining untoasted coconut and the Cool Whip, combining everything into a smooth, creamy filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Spoon the prepared filling evenly into the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top. Sprinkle with the toasted coconut and the reserved pecans to add texture and flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set. Before serving, garnish each slice or the top of the pie with maraschino cherries for a classic finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple and mandarin oranges are well drained to avoid a soggy crust.
- To toast coconut evenly, keep a close eye to prevent burning as it can quickly go from toasted to burnt.
- This pie can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and add extra toasted coconut for crunch.
- Leftover pie should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days for best quality.
