Million Dollar Pie
Ingredients:
Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup salted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling:
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
¼ 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
Directions:
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch deep dish pie plate. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, allowing it to achieve a golden hue.
Toast the Coconut: While the crust bakes, spread 1/3 cup of coconut on a rimmed baking sheet and toast it in the oven for 4-6 minutes, stirring once. Set aside to cool, adding a delightful crunch to your pie.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Gently fold in the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, and chopped pecans, reserving a small amount of pecans for garnish. Add the Cool Whip and untoasted coconut, blending until evenly mixed.
Assemble the Pie: Spoon the luscious filling into the pre-baked pie crust, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the top with the toasted coconut and reserved pecans, adding visual appeal and a hint of nutty flavor.
Chill and Set: Refrigerate the pie for a minimum of 4 hours to allow it to set perfectly. This crucial step enhances the flavors and ensures a creamy, firm texture. Just before serving, adorn with maraschino cherries for an extra touch of elegance.
Serve and Enjoy: With anticipation at its peak, slice into this decadent Million Dollar Pie and witness its swift disappearance. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, tanginess, and crunch, leaving your taste buds craving more.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Presentation Perfection: When serving Million Dollar Pie, consider garnishing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra touch of elegance. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful contrast of textures.
Chill for Chill: For the ultimate indulgence, serve this pie chilled. The creamy filling and buttery crust reach their peak flavor and texture when properly refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving.
Slice with Precision: To achieve clean, neat slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts. This prevents the filling from sticking to the knife, ensuring each slice is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Portion Control: While it’s tempting to indulge in generous slices of this delectable pie, keep in mind that a little goes a long way. The richness of the filling makes smaller portions just as satisfying, allowing you to savor every bite without overwhelming your palate.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftover Million Dollar Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. However, given its irresistible appeal, leftovers are likely to be a rarity!
Freeze for Future Indulgence: If you find yourself with an abundance of pie or wish to prepare ahead, Million Dollar Pie can be frozen for future enjoyment. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Refrigerate Promptly: After serving, promptly return any remaining pie to the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warm weather, to ensure food safety.