Millionaire Pie

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: PT0M Total: 15 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Millionaire Pie
This rich no-bake Millionaire Pie combines cream cheese, crushed pineapple, pecans, and Cool Whip in a graham cracker crust for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert. Mix it up, chill it down, and you’ve got a pie that tastes like a million bucks without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 carton Cool Whip
  • 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple drained
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large graham cracker pie crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cream together the softened cream cheese and the sugar with an electric mixer; letting the mixer run for 3 or 4 minutes on high speed until light and fluffy.
  2. Stir in the crushed pineapple and pecans, mixing well. Fold in half of the whipped topping until the filling is blended and smooth.
  3. Pour filling into the prepared graham cracker pie shell. Spread the remaining half of the Cool Whip over the top and chill for several hours (at least 3-4 hours, or overnight) until firm. One cup of grated coconut may be added to the pie filling if desired. This recipe can also make two 6-inch crusts so you can share with friends.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my filling runny?

A: Make sure you drain the pineapple really well—squeeze out extra liquid through a strainer or paper towels. Also, the cream cheese needs to be at room temperature and beaten until fluffy before adding other ingredients. The pie needs several hours (at least 3-4) in the refrigerator to set properly.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! This pie is actually better when made a day ahead. The flavors meld together and it firms up perfectly. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered.

Tips and Techniques

Beat the cream cheese and sugar for the full 3-4 minutes on high speed—this creates a light, fluffy base that makes the pie extra creamy. When folding in the Cool Whip, use gentle folding motions rather than stirring to keep it airy.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Cool Whip: homemade whipped cream (2 cups heavy cream whipped with 1/4 cup sugar)
  • crushed pineapple: drained mandarin oranges or maraschino cherries, chopped
  • graham cracker crust: vanilla wafer crust or shortbread crust
  • pecans: walnuts or macadamia nuts

Equipment Needed

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula for folding
  • Pie pan (if not using pre-made crust)

Historical Context

Millionaire Pie got its name because it tastes so rich and decadent, like something only a millionaire could afford—though ironically, it’s made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. It became a Southern staple in the 1960s and 1970s.