Millionaire Pie
There’s a special place in my heart for Millionaire Pie. Growing up, my family would whip this up for any celebration, from birthdays to just a Sunday afternoon. The creamy texture and sweet flavors always brought smiles to our faces, making it an instant favorite. I can still remember the first time I helped my mom in the kitchen, mixing the ingredients. It felt like magic when we folded in the whipped topping, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Now, every time I make Millionaire Pie, it takes me back to those cherished moments. It’s not just about the pie; it’s about the memories created around it, filled with laughter and love.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
10 mins
10 mins
Medium
350 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
18 g
9-inch pie plate, Measuring Cups and Spoons, Mixing Bowls, Hand Mixer, Silicone spatula
What makes Millionaire Pie truly special is its delightful blend of flavors. The crust is perfectly sweet, and the filling is both creamy and refreshing, thanks to ingredients like crushed pineapple and sweetened coconut. Each bite feels like a little piece of paradise. I love serving it during warm evenings when it’s chilled from the fridge, making it a refreshing treat. Share it with friends or family; trust me, it will be a hit!
Why This Millionaire Pie Works
1. Easy to Make
One of my favorite things about Millionaire Pie is how simple it is to prepare. You don’t need any fancy kitchen skills or techniques; just mix, fold, and chill! It’s a great recipe for beginners or those who want something quick yet delicious. You can whip it up in no time and impress everyone with your baking prowess.
2. Versatile Ingredients
This recipe allows you to be creative with your ingredients. While the classic version uses crushed pineapple, you can swap it for other fruits like strawberries or peaches. Get creative with toppings too; you can add nuts, chocolate shavings, or extra fruits to make it your own. The base remains consistent, making it easy to customize for any palate!
3. Perfect for Entertaining
When hosting gatherings, Millionaire Pie is always a crowd-pleaser. It can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. Plus, it’s visually appealing, and who doesn’t love a slice of pie that looks as good as it tastes? It’s the perfect dessert to serve at parties or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
4. A Touch of Nostalgia
For many, including myself, Millionaire Pie carries a sense of nostalgia. It’s a recipe that transcends generations, often passed down through families. Making it not only brings back fond memories but also allows you to create new ones with your loved ones. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a way to connect and celebrate together.
5. Great for All Occasions
No matter the season or occasion, Millionaire Pie fits right in. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a holiday gathering, this pie adds a festive touch to the table. It’s a dessert that resonates with many people, making it suitable for various celebrations. Plus, it’s light enough to enjoy after a hearty meal without feeling weighed down.
Recipe Ingredients for Millionaire Pie

The ingredients for Millionaire Pie come together to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The base layer of graham cracker crumbs provides a sweet crunch, while the filling, rich with cream cheese and topped with Cool Whip, offers a creamy finish. Each ingredient plays a key role, ensuring this pie stands out at any gathering.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: This serves as the foundation, offering a sweet and slightly crunchy base for the pie.
- 8 tablespoons butter: Melted and mixed with the crumbs, it binds the crust together and adds richness.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor to the crust, enhancing its sweetness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: The star of the filling, providing a creamy and tangy base.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances the cream cheese, ensuring the filling is sweet and delightful.
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes: Adds texture and a tropical flair to the pie.
- 15.25 ounces crushed pineapple: Provides a refreshing burst of flavor; make sure it’s well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- 1 ½ cups maraschino cherries: Sweet and colorful, they make perfect toppings for the pie.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the pie.
- 8 ounces container Cool Whip: Lightens the filling and adds a fluffy, creamy texture.
Millionaire Pie Instructions

Making Millionaire Pie is a straightforward process, allowing you to enjoy the delightful end result quickly. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dessert:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready for the graham cracker crust to bake.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 8 tablespoons of melted butter, and ¼ cup of brown sugar. Use a fork to mix everything until well combined. It should resemble damp sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9 inch pie plate. Make sure it’s firm to create a solid base for your filling.
- Once the crust is prepared, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. The crust will firm up and take on a beautiful golden color. After baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
- In another large bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This forms the base of your filling.
- Add in the 1 cup of sweetened coconut flakes, 15.25 ounces of well-drained crushed pineapple, ½ cup of chopped pecans, and 1 ½ cups of diced maraschino cherries to the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until everything is well combined.
- Next, gently fold in ½ of the Cool Whip into the mixture. This will lighten the filling and make it fluffy.
- Pour the entire filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Top the pie with the remaining Cool Whip, smoothing it over the top. Then, place the remaining maraschino cherries on top for decoration.
- Finally, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chilling Time: Make sure to refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours to allow it to set properly. The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together.
- Crust Firmness: Ensure your crust is well-pressed into the pie plate to avoid crumbling when serving. A firm crust provides a sturdy base for the creamy filling.
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality cream cheese and fresh fruits for the best flavor. It makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Consider serving slices with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
Ways to Customize

While the classic Millionaire Pie is a favorite, there are countless ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even mango for a tropical twist.
- Nut Options: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
- Chocolate Upgrade: Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling or top it with chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
- Healthier Options: Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Garnish Ideas: Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top or serve with whipped cream for an extra presentation boost.
- Flavor Infusions: For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon or lime juice to the filling.
What to Pair With Millionaire Pie
Pairing your Millionaire Pie with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Consider these suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a medley of fresh berries or sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast. The tartness complements the sweetness of the pie perfectly.
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee balances the cool, creamy texture of the pie. Choose a light blend to keep the focus on the dessert.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top can enhance the flavor and add a creamy texture that pairs well.
- Salads: For a lighter meal, serve with a fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette. This balances the sweetness of the pie with a savory element.
- Seasonal Occasions: Millionaire Pie is perfect for summer barbecues or festive gatherings. Its lightness makes it ideal for hot days.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side can take this dessert to the next level, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures.
FAQ
Conclusion
The charm of Millionaire Pie lies in its delightful mix of flavors and textures, creating a dessert that truly satisfies. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to for gatherings and special occasions. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! This pie is not just a treat; it’s a delicious way to create unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Millionaire Pie
Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer
- Silicone spatula
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 8 tablespoons Butter
- ¼ cup Brown sugar packed
- 8 ounces Cream cheese (1 brick)
- ½ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Sweetened coconut flakes
- 15.25 ounces Crushed pineapple well drained (1 can)
- 1 ½ cups Maraschino cherries drained & chopped, divided
- ½ cup Chopped pecans
- 8 ounces Cool Whip divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 8 tablespoons of melted butter, and ¼ cup of brown sugar. Use a fork to mix everything until well combined.
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9 inch pie plate.
- Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- In another bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the 1 cup of sweetened coconut flakes, 15.25 ounces of well-drained crushed pineapple, ½ cup of chopped pecans, and 1 ½ cups of diced maraschino cherries to the cream cheese mixture.
- Gently fold in ½ of the Cool Whip into the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining Cool Whip and place the remaining maraschino cherries on top for decoration.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
Notes
- Fridge: Store Millionaire Pie wrapped tightly with plastic wrap for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Leave off whip topping and cherries to freeze. Cover well and place the pie in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Top with Cool Whip and cherries to serve.
