No-Bake Millionaire Pie

If you love easy, no-bake desserts, this Millionaire Pie is going to be a new favorite! This luscious, creamy pie is a delightful combination of tropical pineapple, sweet maraschino cherries, crunchy pecans, and coconut, all wrapped in a velvety whipped filling. The best part? No baking required! My grandmother used to make this pie for summer gatherings, and it was always the first dessert to disappear. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, this pie is sure to impress with its rich, refreshing flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Oven Needed – Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
• Quick & Easy – Only 10 minutes of prep before chilling.
• Rich and Creamy – Sweet, tangy, and indulgently smooth.
• Great for Gatherings – A crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, and celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better when chilled overnight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade, see variation below)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
• 1 can (15.25 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained & chopped
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
• 1 ½ cups whipped topping (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and maraschino cherry juice. Stir until smooth and well combined. The acidity from the lemon juice will help thicken the mixture slightly.

2. Fold in Ingredients

Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, chopped pecans, and sweetened coconut flakes. Mix until evenly distributed. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess liquid making the filling runny.

3. Add Whipped Topping

Fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix to keep the filling light and airy. Using a rubber spatula will help maintain the fluffiness.

4. Fill the Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for an even finish.

5. Chill & Set

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm. For best results, let it chill overnight to enhance the flavors and texture. Chilling also helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice.

6. Garnish & Serve

Before serving, top with extra whipped topping and garnish with whole maraschino cherries. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped pecans for added crunch and visual appeal.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions – Serve chilled, with an extra sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs beautifully with this pie.
• Storage – Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors.
• Freezing – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Make-Ahead Option – Prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the pie just before serving for a fresher presentation.

Helpful Notes

• For Extra Crunch – Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling to enhance their flavor.
• Make it Lighter – Use light whipped topping and fat-free sweetened condensed milk for a lower-calorie version.
• Alternative Crusts – Try using a vanilla wafer or shortbread crust for a different twist.
• Homemade Graham Cracker Crust – If you want a homemade crust, mix 1 ½ cups of crushed graham crackers with 6 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp sugar. Press into a pie dish and chill for 30 minutes before adding the filling.
• Common Mistake to Avoid – Make sure to drain the pineapple well; excess liquid can make the filling too runny.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
   Yes! Fresh cherries can be chopped and used, but they will have a slightly different texture and flavor. They also won’t add the signature pink hue to the filling.
2. Why is my pie not setting properly?
   Make sure to drain the pineapple completely and allow at least 4 hours of chilling time to set the filling.
3. Can I make this pie without nuts?
   Absolutely! Simply omit the pecans if you prefer a nut-free version. You can replace them with extra coconut flakes for texture.
4. What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
   A homemade substitute can be made by simmering milk and sugar until thickened, but the taste may vary slightly.
5. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
   Yes! Use 1 ½ cups of freshly whipped cream stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar for a homemade touch.
6. How can I make this recipe even more indulgent?
   Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the crust before adding the filling for a decadent twist.
7. Can I make individual servings instead of a whole pie?
   Yes! Spoon the filling into mini graham cracker crusts or dessert cups for easy-to-serve portions.

Final Thoughts

No-Bake Millionaire Pie is the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Its creamy, fruity, and nutty combination makes it both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just enjoying a slice for yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Pair it with a glass of iced tea or a cup of coffee for the perfect dessert experience. Have you tried this pie? Let me know your favorite twist on this classic recipe!