Name: Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 3 h 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract); 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces); 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 can crushed pineapple (20 ounces), very well drained; 1 cup chopped pecans; 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and well drained; 8 ounces Cool Whip whipped topping; Shredded coconut (optional); Maraschino cherries

Print Recipe·Leave a Review

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite, this Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe is absolutely something you need to try. It’s a luscious combination of creamy, tangy, fruity, and nutty flavors all nestled atop a buttery, tender shortbread crust that practically melts in your mouth. With its fluffy texture and vibrant colors, this pie is perfect for gatherings or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special and unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass pie dish holds a pale, textured shortbread crust as the base layer, showing a slightly crumbly and thick edge. Surrounding it on a white marbled surface are small clear bowls with different ingredients: finely chopped medium-brown pecans, bright red maraschino cherries, and a fluffy white cool whip with soft peaks in a white bowl. There is a small glass pitcher filled with translucent lemon juice, a fine metal sieve containing crushed light yellow pineapple with fibrous texture, and a can of sweetened condensed milk with a red and white label. Each ingredient is neatly arranged around the crust, ready to be combined. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients in this Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe are wonderfully simple yet each one plays a key role in building those layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery shortbread crust to the sweet tang of lemon and pineapple, everything comes together perfectly to create this irresistible dessert.

Salted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides the rich base for the shortbread crust and gives it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens and lightens the crust without adding any grittiness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, comforting notes; almond extract can be a delicious twist if you prefer.
All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): The backbone of the shortbread crust, creating structure and stability.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Keeps the crust tender while helping it hold together beautifully.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 ounces): Lends a creamy, luscious sweetness that is essential to the filling.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1/4 cup): Perfectly balances the sweetness with a bright, citrusy punch.
Crushed pineapple (1 can, 20 ounces, very well drained): Adds juicy bursts of tropical fruit flavor and moist texture.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): Provides crunch and a toasty, nutty depth to the pie.
Maraschino cherries (3/4 cup, chopped and well drained): Brings a pop of color and subtle sweetness throughout the pie.
Cool Whip whipped topping (8 ounces): Makes the filling light, airy, and perfectly fluffy.

How to Make Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Blend the Shortbread Crust

Begin by creaming the salted butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer for about 2 to 3 minutes until fluffy and well combined. Adding the vanilla extract now imparts a lovely aroma that’s the base for the crust’s flavor.

Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed just until everything is incorporated and you have a crumbly dough. Be careful not to overmix here since overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust, and we want tender every time.

Step 3: Shape and Chill the Crust

Use your hands to gather the dough into a ball, then press it evenly into a greased 9-inch pie plate, forming the crust along the bottom and sides. Pop the crust into the refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill—it helps the crust hold its shape while baking.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350ºF, then bake the chilled crust for 12 to 14 minutes until it’s set and just starting to turn golden at the edges. Cool it completely on a wire rack before filling it to avoid any sogginess.

Step 5: Mix the Tangy Filling Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and freshly squeezed lemon juice until the mixture thickens slightly, creating a subtly tart and creamy foundation for the pie.

Step 6: Fold in the Fruit and Nuts

Gently add the well-drained crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans to the lemony filling base. Then carefully fold in the Cool Whip whipped topping, taking care not to overmix, so the filling stays light and airy.

Step 7: Assemble and Chill

Pour the luscious filling into the cooled shortbread crust. Cover the pie and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or better yet, overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set perfectly.

How to Serve Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe

A close-up view of a round, cream-filled dessert in a clear glass pie dish, showing two distinct layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light beige crust with a slightly grainy texture, while the top layer is thick, fluffy white cream mixed with small red and dark bits, giving a speckled look throughout. Three bright red cherries with shiny skin and long stems rest on top, placed near the edge of the creamy layer. The pie dish sits on a black wire cooling rack over a pink cloth, with a soft-focus dark blue background and a white marbled surface beneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When it’s time to serve your Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe, a few simple garnishes can make it even more special. Sprinkling shredded coconut over the top adds a lovely texture and tropical flair, while a few extra maraschino cherries can make it look festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

This pie truly shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of rich coffee or hot tea also complements the bright and creamy flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in pretty glass dessert cups layered with extra cherries and toasted pecans on top. You can even drizzle a little warm caramel sauce or sprinkle cinnamon for extra flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pie covered tightly in the refrigerator. Thanks to the shortbread crust and creamy filling, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days without any loss of texture or flavor.

Freezing

While you can freeze the pie, it’s best to freeze before adding the Cool Whip topping to maintain texture. Wrap the pie well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh whipped topping and garnishes.

Reheating

No reheating needed here! This Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe is perfect served chilled. If you prefer, just let the pie sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to take the chill off before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of shortbread?

Absolutely! While the shortbread crust adds a unique buttery richness to this recipe, a traditional graham cracker crust or even a store-bought pie crust could work in a pinch. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

Is it okay to use canned pineapple with juice?

It’s best to use well-drained crushed pineapple to avoid making the filling too watery. Squeezing out as much juice as possible ensures your pie stays firm and luscious.

Can I substitute fresh whipped cream for Cool Whip?

Yes, fresh whipped cream works great here and adds a lovely homemade touch. Just be gentle when folding it into the filling to keep that airy texture intact.

How long does it take for the pie to set properly?

The pie needs at least 3 hours in the refrigerator to fully set, but overnight chilling really intensifies the flavor and helps the filling firm up perfectly for clean slices.

Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?

With some ingredient swaps—like using dairy-free butter, a non-dairy whipped topping, and a suitable condensed milk alternative—you can create a vegan version, although the texture and taste will be a bit different.

Final Thoughts

If you want to wow your family and friends with a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Million Dollar Pie with Shortbread Crust Recipe is your answer. It’s one of those rare treats that’s both effortless and extraordinary, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep everyone asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients and make this magical pie your new favorite!

“`