Millionaire Pie is one of those delightfully retro, no-bake desserts that always gets recipe requests whenever it makes an appearance! In just five minutes, you can be chilling this lush, creamy pie studded with pineapple, cherries, pecans, and coconut—a sweet, dreamy slice of nostalgia that’s perfect for summer picnics, holidays, or when you simply need a taste of sunshine with zero fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Needed: The pie is completely no-bake—just mix, fill, and chill for effortless, crowd-pleasing results.
- Irresistible Tropical Flavors: Each slice is packed with juicy pineapple, sweet coconut, and cherries for instant vacation vibes.
- Quick to Make: It only takes 5 minutes to prep, which is perfect for those last-minute gatherings or spontaneous cravings.
- Always a Show-Stopper: Millionaire Pie’s colorful, creamy filling and classic Southern charm make it a dessert everyone will remember.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Millionaire Pie is proof that simple, pantry-friendly ingredients can create the most memorable desserts. Each component brings its own unique flavor and adds to the luscious, textured filling that keeps you coming back for just one more slice!
- Graham Cracker Crust: Offers a crunchy, buttery base that deliciously contrasts the creamy filling, and using a store-bought crust makes this recipe even speedier.
- Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Lends chewiness and tropical sweetness—don’t skip, even if you’re on the fence about coconut!
- Crushed Pineapple: Adds juicy freshness and a bright, tangy note that balances out the sweetness.
- Maraschino Cherries: Bring festive color and a juicy burst of flavor; chopping them helps distribute them throughout each slice.
- Chopped Pecans: Give the pie a nutty crunch that keeps every bite interesting.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The secret to that creamy, rich filling—it sweetens and binds all the ingredients together.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Essential for setting the filling and adding just the right amount of tang; don’t substitute or skip!
- Maraschino Cherry Juice: A little splash adds pretty color and amps up the cherry flavor.
- Whipped Topping: Makes the filling fluffy and light; plus, save some extra to swirl on top as a finishing flourish.
Variations
One of the joys of Millionaire Pie is just how inspiringly flexible it is! Don’t be afraid to get creative—this is a dessert that welcomes adaptation, whether you’re working with what’s in your pantry or catering to specific tastes.
- Make It Nut-Free: Skip the pecans or swap them for sunflower seeds if you prefer a nut-free version that’s still delightfully crunchy.
- Switch Up the Fruit: Try mandarin oranges, diced peaches, or even fresh strawberries instead of— or in addition to—the pineapple for your own tropical twist.
- Low Sugar Option: Use unsweetened coconut, light whipped topping, or even a reduced-sugar condensed milk to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
- Go Homemade: If you love a deeper, buttery flavor, make your own graham cracker crust or try a cookie-based crust for extra personality.
How to Make Millionaire Pie
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Grab a big mixing bowl and combine the coconut flakes, drained crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, pecans, sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and a splash of cherry juice. Stir it all together until every bit of fruit and nut is glossy and well-coated—this is where the magic happens, and you’ll already be tempted by the aroma!
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Once your filling base is perfectly mixed, add the whipped topping. Gently fold it in—don’t rush! Use a spatula to keep everything light and airy, ensuring that signature fluffy Millionaire Pie texture. The filling should look creamy, pastel, and studded with jewel-toned fruit.
Step 3: Fill the Crust and Garnish
Now, spoon the luscious mixture into your graham cracker crust and smooth out the top with the back of a spoon or a spatula. Add a flourish of extra whipped topping and a few whole cherries right in the center or around the edges for a pie that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Patience is a virtue here! Cover your Millionaire Pie and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is even better), so the filling sets up and every flavor melds into creamy harmony. When you slice it, you want those clean, distinct, beautiful layers.
Pro Tips for Making Millionaire Pie
- Thoroughly Drain Your Pineapple: Excess liquid from pineapple will make the filling soupy—press fruit firmly with the back of a spoon for best results.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: The acidity helps the condensed milk set the pie’s signature texture—without it, your slice may be too soft.
- Chill for the Best Slices: The longer your Millionaire Pie spends in the fridge, the neater your slices will be—overnight is absolutely worth it if you can wait!
- Use a Serrated Knife for Serving: For the cleanest, prettiest slices, run a sharp, serrated knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts.
How to Serve Millionaire Pie
Garnishes
A classic Millionaire Pie always looks extra tempting with a crown of whipped topping and whole maraschino cherries on top. A scatter of toasted coconut or a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans adds a lovely crunch and visual flair—and really, who can resist a dessert this inviting?
Side Dishes
This pie is so rich and fruity, it pairs beautifully with fresh, simple sides like a bowl of sliced strawberries, a fruit salad, or even a cool citrus granita to refresh your palate between bites. If you’re serving it at a BBQ or picnic, a glass of iced tea or tangy lemonade is the perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try making individual Millionaire Pies in mini graham cracker crusts or small jars for adorable single-serve desserts! Or, scoop the chilled filling into parfait glasses layered with extra crushed graham crackers—everyone loves a dessert with a little bit of drama and sparkle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Millionaire Pie keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator. Just cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days—though don’t be surprised if it disappears long before then!
Freezing
If you want to make this pie well ahead of time, you can freeze it! Wrap the pie (without garnishes) in several layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and add the final whipped topping and cherries just before slicing for best texture.
Reheating
Since Millionaire Pie is meant to be enjoyed chilled, there’s no need to reheat—just pull a slice from the fridge and dig right in! If frozen, be sure to let it thaw fully in the refrigerator, which usually takes several hours or overnight, before serving.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?
Yes! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully in Millionaire Pie—just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks and use it right away, as it’s a bit softer and may not hold its shape as long as whipped topping.
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Do I have to use the maraschino cherry juice, or is it optional?
The cherry juice adds lovely color and flavor, but if you need to skip it, you can—just add a teaspoon of extra lemon juice or a little pineapple juice to keep the consistency right.
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Could I make this Millionaire Pie ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Millionaire Pie is perfect for making ahead—simply assemble, cover, and chill overnight. Wait to add the whipped topping and cherries until just before serving for the prettiest results.
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Is there a way to make Millionaire Pie dairy-free?
Definitely! Use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk (there are coconut and oat options on the market) and a non-dairy whipped topping, and this pie becomes a creamy, dreamy treat everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Millionaire Pie yet, let this be the year you fall in love! It’s a no-bake classic for good reason—effortless to throw together, endlessly customizable, and so vibrantly delicious. Whether you serve it at a big gathering or sneak slices from the fridge, it’s sure to sweeten any moment. Enjoy every creamy, colorful bite!
Print
Millionaire Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: No-Cook
- Method: No-Cook
Description
This Millionaire Pie is a no-bake delight that takes only 5 minutes to prep. It’s a luscious combination of coconut, pineapple, cherries, pecans, and a creamy filling, all nestled in a graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 graham cracker crust
Filling:
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 15.25 ounces crushed pineapple, well drained (1 can)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained & chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping, plus extra for garnish if desired
Instructions
- Filling Preparation: In a large bowl, combine coconut, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, pecans, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and maraschino cherry juice.
- Assembly: Gently fold in whipped topping. Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust.
- Chilling: Top with additional whipped topping and cherries if desired. Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.
Notes
- Do not skip or substitute the lemon juice, or the pie may not set properly.
Nutrition
- Calories: 454
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
