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Granny’s Million Dollar Pie

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 1 from 2 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (or overnight)
  • Yield: -10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Granny’s Million Dollar Pie is the perfect no-bake dessert with a rich, creamy filling, refreshing pineapple flavor, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This easy, crowd-pleasing pie is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion when you’re craving a tropical treat. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this pie will become your new go-to dessert!


Ingredients

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • 1 graham cracker crust (9-inch)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.

2️⃣ Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Lemon Juice: Add the sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.

3️⃣ Fold in Pineapple and Coconut: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut (if using) until evenly mixed.

4️⃣ Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully fold the whipped topping into the mixture until it’s fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy filling.

5️⃣ Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the creamy mixture into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.

6️⃣ Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to let it set.

7️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the pie with chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) and add extra whipped topping if desired. Slice and serve chilled.


Notes

  • Chill Time: It’s crucial to allow the pie to chill for at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) so the filling has time to set properly. This gives the pie its creamy, firm texture and allows the flavors to meld together.

  • Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: While canned pineapple is traditionally used for convenience, fresh pineapple can be used as well. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the pie’s texture.

  • Coconut: The shredded coconut is optional but adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the pie. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave it out, and the pie will still taste delicious.

  • Whipped Topping Alternatives: If you don’t have whipped topping (like Cool Whip), you can easily substitute it with fresh whipped cream. Just beat heavy cream with a little sugar until it forms stiff peaks. This will give the pie a slightly richer, homemade feel.

  • Crust Options:

    • While graham cracker crust is the traditional choice, you can easily swap it out for an Oreo crust, vanilla wafer crust, or even a shortbread cookie crust for a twist on the flavor.
    • If you want to prevent the graham cracker crust from becoming too soggy, bake the crust for 5-10 minutes before filling it. This will help it hold up better when the filling is added.
  • Making Ahead: This pie is perfect for making ahead. It needs several hours to chill in the refrigerator, so making it the day before is ideal. It will hold up well and even taste better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

  • Storage: Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness and prevent the crust from drying out.

  • Freezing: You can freeze this pie for up to 2 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

  • Customizing the Fruit: While pineapple is traditional, you can use other fruits like mango, peaches, or even berries to create a different fruity flavor. Be sure to drain any extra liquid if using fresh fruit, or the pie might get too watery.

  • Garnishing: Feel free to garnish the pie with more than just the nuts. You can also add extra whipped cream, or for a fun twist, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top before serving.

  • Sweetness Level: If you prefer a less sweet pie, you can adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk or cut back on the brown sugar to your liking.