Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, well drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 8-ounce container Cool Whip
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix well to ensure all crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, forming an even layer on the bottom and up the sides.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
Toast the Coconut
- Spread 1/3 cup of the sweetened coconut on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 4-6 minutes, stirring once, until the coconut is lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice. Whisk together until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the well-drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, and chopped pecans to the bowl. Stir gently to incorporate. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of pecans for garnish.
- Fold in the Cool Whip and the remaining untoasted sweetened coconut until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the filling into the prepared and cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the top with the toasted coconut and reserved chopped pecans.
Chill
- Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
Garnish and Serve
- Just before serving, garnish the pie with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and an extra hint of sweetness.
- Slice and serve your Million Dollar Pie, enjoying the medley of creamy, tropical flavors in every bite.
Notes
- Draining the Fruits: Be thorough when draining the pineapple and mandarin oranges. Excess liquid can make the filling runny and prevent it from setting properly.
- Coconut Variations: If you’re not a fan of sweetened coconut, you can substitute unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet version. Toasting enhances its nutty flavor.
- Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t your preference, walnuts or almonds make great substitutions. For a nut-free option, omit the pecans entirely.
- Whipped Cream Substitute: Homemade whipped cream can replace Cool Whip for a more natural flavor. Use 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks, as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes