If you’ve been craving a cool, creamy, and ridiculously easy dessert that tastes like it took all day to make, then you’re in for a treat. This Million Dollar Pie is pure retro magic, made with only a handful of pantry staples and ready to wow your family or your next potluck crowd. It’s sweet, […]
If you’ve been craving a cool, creamy, and ridiculously easy dessert that tastes like it took all day to make, then you’re in for a treat. This Million Dollar Pie is pure retro magic, made with only a handful of pantry staples and ready to wow your family or your next potluck crowd. It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and oh-so nostalgic—the kind of dessert that keeps disappearing from the fridge faster than you expect!
Before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe to get this recipe (and plenty more Southern sweets!) delivered straight to your inbox. You’ll never miss a delicious moment again!
If you’ve been craving a cool, creamy, and ridiculously easy dessert that tastes like it took all day to make, then you’re in for a treat. This Million Dollar Pie is pure retro magic, made with only a handful of pantry staples and ready to wow your family or your next potluck crowd. It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and oh-so nostalgic—the kind of dessert that keeps disappearing from the fridge faster than you expect!
Before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe to get this recipe (and plenty more Southern sweets!) delivered straight to your inbox. You’ll never miss a delicious moment again!
What Is Million Dollar Pie?
Million Dollar Pie is a no-bake dessert that dates back to mid-century Southern kitchens. Also known as “Millionaire Pie,” this chilled pie combines crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and pecans in a graham cracker crust—often with maraschino cherries or coconut folded in.
No oven, no fuss. Just stir, chill, slice, and serve!
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Pie
There’s a reason this pie is a Southern classic. It’s:
Quick to prepare — 10 minutes and you’re done!
No-bake — perfect for hot days when the oven is off-limits.
Easy to customize — mix in your favorite fruits or nuts.
Make-ahead friendly — it gets better after chilling overnight.
Sweet and tangy — that perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.
What Does Million Dollar Pie Taste Like?
Imagine a fluffy, tropical cheesecake mousse nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s creamy and luscious with bursts of tart pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a whisper of lemony zing. The whipped topping keeps things light, while the sweetened condensed milk brings all the richness you’d expect from something called “Million Dollar.”
It’s like biting into sunshine!
Benefits of This Recipe
Not only is it crowd-pleasing and budget-friendly, but Million Dollar Pie is also:
Kid-friendly and safe for little hands to help mix.
Freezer-friendly — perfect for making in advance.
No special equipment needed — just a bowl and a spoon!
A showstopper with minimal effort — yes, please!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this no-bake gem:
1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
¼ cup chopped maraschino cherries (optional, plus extras for topping)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener
Pie server
Additions and Substitutions
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!
Add-ins:
Mini marshmallows for a fluffier, more dessert-salad vibe.
Mandarin oranges in place of pineapple for a sweeter citrus twist.
Toasted almonds or walnuts instead of pecans.
Substitutions:
Use Greek yogurt instead of half the whipped topping for a tangier profile.
Swap out the graham crust for a vanilla wafer or shortbread crust.
How to Make Million Dollar Pie – Step by Step
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until combined. This activates the thickening magic!
Step 2: Fold in the Good Stuff
Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy. Then, add the well-drained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, shredded coconut (if using), and maraschino cherries (if using).
Step 3: Fill the Crust
Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
Step 5: Serve!
Garnish with extra whipped topping, more chopped pecans, or a few whole maraschino cherries on top before serving.
The smell when you open the fridge to this pie? Unreal.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Pie
This pie is a star on its own, but here are a few pairings to round out the menu:
A glass of iced tea or lemonade
Grilled chicken or pulled pork for a Southern BBQ-style meal
Fresh fruit salad on the side
Coffee for a sweet afternoon break
Tips for the Creamiest Pie
Drain the pineapple well. Excess juice will make the filling too runny.
Don’t skip the lemon juice. It helps thicken the filling.
Chill thoroughly. Overnight is best for a clean slice.
Use a serrated knife dipped in hot water to cut perfect slices.
How to Store Million Dollar Pie
Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
It’s one of those desserts that tastes even better the next day—if it lasts that long!
Million Dollar Pie FAQs
Can I make Million Dollar Pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie actually improves with time. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can try using a dairy-free sweetened condensed coconut milk and a dairy-free whipped topping alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this in individual servings?
Absolutely! Spoon the filling into mini graham cracker crusts or ramekins for adorable personal pies.
Wrapping It Up – Why You Need This Pie in Your Life
There’s just something undeniably joyful about a dessert that comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort and flavor. Million Dollar Pie is that kind of recipe—timeless, simple, and a little bit nostalgic. It’s great for holidays, BBQs, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve a treat.
If you’re looking for more peachy or creamy Southern desserts, you’ll love these too:
Peach Dump Cake (only 3 ingredients!)
No-Bake Banana Pudding Cups
Southern Peach Cobbler with a golden biscuit topping
Share the Love!
Tried this Million Dollar Pie? I’d love to hear from you! Leave a review, pin it on Pinterest, and don’t forget to tag your pie photos so I can see your beautiful creations! #MillionDollarPieMagic
This Million Dollar Pie is a creamy, dreamy no-bake dessert made with crushed pineapple, whipped topping, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans. It’s sweet, tangy, and so simple—ready in just 10 minutes! Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
– 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
– 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
– 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ¼ cup lemon juice
– ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
– ¼ cup chopped maraschino cherries (optional, plus extras for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until combined.
2. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the well-drained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, coconut, and cherries. Mix gently to combine.
4. Spoon the filling into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Garnish with additional whipped topping, pecans, and cherries if desired before serving
Notes
Make Ahead: Best made the night before for easier slicing.
– Variations:Try mandarin oranges instead of pineapple or use mini graham crusts for individual pies!
– Freezer Tip: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
