Million Dollar Pie with Cherries Recipe

It’s funny how some recipes just seem to weave their way into your family’s story, isn’t it? For us, the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries did just that. It wasn’t some grand, planned event. It was more of a spontaneous “let’s try something new” moment during a family gathering last summer. My sister-in-law brought it, and honestly, from the first bite, it was gone. Plates were cleaned, second helpings were devoured, and the recipe was requested before the last crumb was swept away. This pie, with its creamy, dreamy filling and burst of sweet cherries, isn’t just dessert; it’s a conversation starter, a memory maker, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s become our go-to for potlucks, summer barbecues, and frankly, any day that needs a little extra sparkle. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both incredibly easy and outrageously delicious, look no further. Prepare to meet your new favorite: the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries.

Ingredients

To craft this decadent Million Dollar Pie with Cherries, you’ll need a selection of simple yet impactful ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward nature, requiring no baking and minimal fuss. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the pie’s signature texture and flavor profile. Let’s delve into each component:

• 1 (14-ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the cornerstone of the pie’s rich, creamy filling. Sweetened condensed milk is not evaporated milk; it’s milk that has been heated to remove water, and then sweetened. This process gives it a thick, luscious texture and a distinctive sweet, caramelized flavor. It’s what provides the ‘million dollar’ richness to this pie. Ensure you are using sweetened condensed milk and not evaporated milk, as they are not interchangeable in this recipe.
• 1 (8-ounce) package Cream Cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds tanginess and structure to the filling, balancing the sweetness of the condensed milk and providing a delightful creamy texture. It’s absolutely crucial that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before you begin. This ensures that it blends smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a lump-free and velvety filling. If you try to use cold cream cheese, you’ll likely end up with a clumpy mixture, which we definitely want to avoid.
• 1 (8-ounce) container Frozen Whipped Topping, thawed (like Cool Whip): Whipped topping is what lightens the density of the filling and adds an airy, cloud-like texture. Using a frozen whipped topping like Cool Whip provides stability to the pie and prevents it from becoming too heavy. Make sure it is fully thawed before incorporating it into the mixture. Thawing allows it to blend seamlessly and maintain its light and fluffy consistency within the pie. You can find this in the freezer section of most grocery stores.
• 1/2 cup Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed preferred: Lemon juice is the magic ingredient that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk, providing a refreshing tang and preventing the pie from being overly sweet. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always recommended for the brightest and most vibrant flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, though it may not have the same fresh zest. The acidity of the lemon juice also plays a role in thickening the filling, helping it set up beautifully in the refrigerator.
• 1 (21-ounce) can Cherry Pie Filling: The star of the show! Cherry pie filling provides the fruity sweetness and beautiful red color that makes this pie so appealing. Choose a good quality cherry pie filling for the best flavor. You can opt for regular or even a slightly tart cherry pie filling depending on your preference. The cherries not only add flavor but also visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy filling. If you want to elevate the cherry flavor even further, consider using a high-quality brand or even homemade cherry pie filling if you’re feeling ambitious.
• 1 Graham Cracker Pie Crust (9-inch): A pre-made graham cracker pie crust simplifies this recipe and provides a perfect, slightly sweet and crunchy base for the creamy filling. You can find these in most grocery stores, usually in the baking aisle or near the pie fillings. Using a pre-made crust saves time and effort, making this recipe incredibly easy and quick to assemble. If you prefer a homemade crust, you certainly can make your own graham cracker crust or even use a different type of crust altogether, such as a shortbread crust, for a different flavor profile.

These simple ingredients, when combined, create a symphony of flavors and textures that make the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries truly exceptional. The creamy, tangy filling, the sweet burst of cherries, and the slightly crunchy graham cracker crust – it’s a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Creating this Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is delightfully simple, requiring minimal effort and no baking. Follow these step-by-step instructions to assemble your perfect no-bake dessert:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese: Begin by ensuring your 8-ounce package of cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature. This is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free filling. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to start making the pie. You can test the softness by gently pressing on it – it should yield easily without being too firm. Softened cream cheese will blend effortlessly with the other ingredients, resulting in a velvety texture.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and the entire 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer) or a sturdy whisk, beat these two ingredients together until they are completely smooth and well combined. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is incorporated. You’re looking for a creamy, homogenous mixture with no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
3. Incorporate Lemon Juice: Once the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk are thoroughly combined, gradually add the 1/2 cup of lemon juice to the mixture. It’s best to add the lemon juice slowly, a little at a time, while continuing to mix on low speed. This gradual addition helps the mixture emulsify properly and prevents it from curdling. As you add the lemon juice, you’ll notice the mixture starting to thicken slightly. The lemon juice not only adds a refreshing tang but also reacts with the dairy to help set the pie.
4. Fold in Whipped Topping: Now, gently fold in the 8-ounce container of thawed whipped topping. It’s important to fold it in rather than mixing vigorously to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped topping. Use a spatula to gently incorporate the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Fold by scraping down the sides of the bowl and bringing the spatula down through the center, turning the bowl slightly with each fold. Continue folding until the whipped topping is just incorporated and the mixture is uniformly creamy and pale. Avoid overmixing at this stage, as it can deflate the whipped topping and make the filling less airy.
5. Prepare the Pie Crust: Take your 9-inch graham cracker pie crust and set it on a flat surface. If you are using a store-bought crust, it is ready to use as is. If you are using a homemade crust, ensure it has been properly prepared and is ready to receive the filling.
6. Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour the creamy filling into the prepared graham cracker pie crust. Spread the filling evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure a smooth and level surface. Make sure the filling reaches all the way to the edges of the crust for a neat and professional look.
7. Top with Cherry Pie Filling: Spoon the entire 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the creamy filling. Distribute the cherries and sauce across the surface of the pie, creating a beautiful red layer over the pale cream filling. You can arrange the cherries attractively if you wish, or simply spread it evenly for a rustic look.
8. Chill the Pie: This is the most important step! Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or a pie lid. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the pie to set completely and for the flavors to meld together beautifully. The lemon juice will continue to work its magic, firming up the filling to the perfect sliceable consistency. For the best texture and flavor, an overnight chill is highly recommended.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pie is thoroughly chilled and set, it’s ready to serve! Remove it from the refrigerator, slice, and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy filling, sweet cherries, and crunchy graham cracker crust. Garnish with extra whipped topping or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs if desired (see “How to Serve” section for more ideas). Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Following these simple instructions, you’ll have a stunning and delicious Million Dollar Pie with Cherries that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible taste makes this recipe a true winner for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your Million Dollar Pie with Cherries can be helpful, especially if you are mindful of your dietary intake. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Servings: This recipe is typically cut into 8 servings. Serving sizes can be adjusted, but cutting into 8 slices is generally considered standard for a 9-inch pie.

Approximate Calories per Serving: One serving of Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is estimated to contain approximately 450-550 calories.

Detailed Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Total Fat: 25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15-20g
  • Trans Fat: Varies depending on whipped topping and cream cheese brands
• Cholesterol: 60-80mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 50-60g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugars: 40-50g (primarily from sweetened condensed milk and pie filling)
• Protein: 5-7g

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and can fluctuate based on the specific brands of ingredients used. For instance, using a lighter cream cheese or whipped topping could slightly reduce the calorie and fat content.
• The sugar content is relatively high due to the sweetened condensed milk and cherry pie filling. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake should be mindful of serving sizes.
• This pie is not a low-fat or low-calorie dessert. It is intended as an indulgent treat.
• For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

While the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is undeniably delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Understanding the nutritional profile helps you make informed choices and enjoy this treat responsibly.

Preparation Time

One of the greatest appeals of the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is its incredibly short preparation time. This no-bake dessert is perfect for when you need a stunning treat without spending hours in the kitchen.

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

This time includes:

• Active Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Softening cream cheese (passive, but needs to be considered in timing)
  • Mixing cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk: 5 minutes
  • Adding lemon juice and folding in whipped topping: 5-7 minutes
  • Pouring filling into crust and topping with cherry pie filling: 5-8 minutes
• Chill Time: Minimum 4 hours, preferably overnight (passive time)

Breakdown of Steps and Time:

1. Softening Cream Cheese: (Passive) Allowing the cream cheese to soften takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature. While this is passive time, it’s essential for smooth mixing. Plan ahead and take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator in advance.
2. Mixing Filling: (Active – 10-15 minutes) The actual mixing process is very quick. Combining the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk takes just a few minutes with an electric mixer. Folding in the lemon juice and whipped topping also takes only a few minutes, especially if you are efficient with your folding technique.
3. Assembly: (Active – 5-10 minutes) Pouring the filling into the crust and topping with cherry pie filling is a matter of minutes. Spreading everything evenly might take a little extra care, but it’s still very fast.
4. Chilling: (Passive – Minimum 4 hours, preferably overnight) The pie needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly. Overnight chilling is even better as it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly firm. This is hands-off time, allowing you to focus on other things while the pie becomes deliciously ready.

Why is it so fast?

• No-Bake Nature: The biggest time-saver is that this pie requires no baking at all. You skip the entire process of preheating the oven, baking, and cooling.
• Simple Ingredients and Steps: The recipe uses a short list of readily available ingredients and straightforward steps. There are no complicated techniques involved.
• Pre-made Crust: Using a pre-made graham cracker crust eliminates the time needed to make and bake a crust from scratch.

The Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is a fantastic option when you need a dessert in a hurry. Its minimal active preparation time makes it perfect for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet craving without spending hours in the kitchen. While the chilling time is essential, the hands-on time is remarkably short, making it a truly convenient and impressive dessert.

How to Serve

The Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Classic Slice:
  • The most straightforward and satisfying way to serve is simply slicing the chilled pie into wedges. Each slice showcases the beautiful layers of creamy filling and vibrant cherry topping.
  • Serve on dessert plates and let the pie speak for itself. It’s elegant enough to stand alone.
• With Whipped Cream or Topping:
  • While the pie already contains whipped topping in the filling, an extra dollop of freshly whipped cream or a swirl of whipped topping on each slice elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of creamy indulgence.
  • Consider using flavored whipped cream, such as vanilla bean or almond, for a subtle twist.
• Garnished with Fresh Cherries:
  • For a beautiful and fresh garnish, top each slice with a few fresh cherries. This enhances the cherry flavor and adds a pop of color.
  • You can use stemmed cherries for an elegant touch or halved and pitted cherries for easier eating.
• Sprinkled with Graham Cracker Crumbs:
  • Enhance the graham cracker crust element by sprinkling crushed graham cracker crumbs over the top of the pie or around the edge of each slice.
  • This adds a textural contrast and reinforces the graham cracker flavor.
• Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce or Caramel Sauce:
  • For an extra decadent touch, drizzle chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or both over each slice of pie.
  • The rich sauces complement the creamy filling and cherry topping, adding layers of flavor.
• Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream:
  • Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt alongside a slice of Million Dollar Pie. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the creamy pie and adds another dimension of flavor and texture.
  • Other ice cream flavors that pair well include cherry, almond, or even a light cheesecake ice cream.
• With a Sprinkle of Nuts:
  • Add a bit of crunch and nutty flavor by sprinkling chopped nuts over the pie. Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts work particularly well.
  • The nuts provide a pleasant textural contrast to the smooth filling and soft cherry topping.
• As a Layered Parfait:
  • For a more casual and individual serving, layer the pie components in parfait glasses or dessert cups.
  • Crumble graham cracker crust at the bottom, then layer with the creamy filling, and top with cherry pie filling. Repeat layers if desired for a beautiful and easy-to-serve dessert.

Serving Occasions:

• Potlucks and Gatherings: Perfect for bringing to potlucks, barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. It travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Holidays: A great addition to holiday dessert tables, especially during summer holidays or any occasion where a refreshing no-bake dessert is desired.
• Weeknight Treat: Easy enough to make for a special weeknight dessert when you want something sweet without a lot of fuss.
• Special Occasions: Elegant enough to serve at birthday parties, anniversaries, or any celebration where you want a delicious and impressive dessert.

No matter how you choose to serve it, the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is sure to be a hit. Its creamy texture, sweet cherry flavor, and ease of serving make it a truly delightful dessert for any occasion.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Million Dollar Pie with Cherries turns out perfectly every time, and to elevate it even further, consider these helpful tips:

1. Ensure Cream Cheese is Truly Softened: This cannot be stressed enough. Fully softened cream cheese is key to a smooth and lump-free filling. If your cream cheese is even slightly cold, it will be difficult to blend smoothly and may result in a grainy texture. Plan ahead and let it sit at room temperature for ample time. If you’re in a rush, you can carefully microwave it in short 10-second intervals, checking and stirring after each interval, but be very cautious not to melt it.
2. Don’t Overmix After Adding Whipped Topping: Once you’ve folded in the whipped topping, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can deflate the whipped topping, resulting in a denser, less airy filling. Fold just until the whipped topping is incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color and texture. A light and fluffy filling is part of what makes this pie so appealing.
3. Use Quality Cherry Pie Filling (or Make Your Own): The cherry pie filling is a major flavor component of this pie. Opt for a good quality brand that you enjoy. If you want to take it to the next level, consider making your own cherry pie filling from scratch. Homemade cherry pie filling allows you to control the sweetness, texture, and cherry variety, and it often tastes much fresher and more vibrant than canned versions.
4. Chill for the Right Amount of Time: While the minimum chill time is 4 hours, chilling the pie overnight is highly recommended. This extended chill time allows the pie to set completely, ensuring it slices cleanly and holds its shape. It also gives the flavors more time to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious taste. If you try to slice it too soon, the filling might be too soft.
5. Experiment with Crust Variations: While a graham cracker crust is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other crust options. A shortbread crust adds a buttery richness, an Oreo cookie crust provides a chocolatey twist, or a vanilla wafer crust offers a subtle sweetness. You can even make a homemade graham cracker crust for a fresher, more flavorful base. Consider toasting the crust lightly before adding the filling for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

By following these additional tips, you can fine-tune your Million Dollar Pie with Cherries and make it even more exceptional. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the overall texture, flavor, and presentation of your delightful no-bake dessert.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Million Dollar Pie with Cherries, to help you troubleshoot and understand the recipe better:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pie filling instead of cherry?

A: Absolutely! One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, or even peach. Each will give the pie a unique flavor profile while maintaining the creamy base. Consider matching your garnish to the fruit filling you choose, for example, fresh blueberries with blueberry pie filling, or sliced peaches with peach pie filling.

Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?

A: Yes, definitely! Million Dollar Pie with Cherries is an excellent make-ahead dessert. In fact, it’s best to make it at least 4 hours in advance to allow it to chill and set properly. You can even make it a day or two ahead of time. Just ensure it is covered and stored in the refrigerator. This makes it a perfect choice for parties and gatherings, as you can prepare it well in advance and have one less thing to worry about on the day of your event.

Q3: Can I freeze Million Dollar Pie with Cherries?

A: While you can freeze this pie, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Dairy-based desserts, especially those with cream cheese and whipped topping, can sometimes become a bit grainy after freezing and thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, it’s generally recommended to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of refrigeration rather than freezing.

Q4: My pie filling is too soft. What did I do wrong?

A: The most common reason for a soft filling is not chilling it long enough. Ensure you chill the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. Another possibility is that your cream cheese wasn’t softened enough, or you didn’t use enough lemon juice. Lemon juice helps to set the pie, so make sure you’re using the full amount. Also, ensure you are using sweetened condensed milk and not evaporated milk, as they are different products and will affect the pie’s texture.

Q5: Can I make this pie with a homemade graham cracker crust?

A: Yes, absolutely! While a pre-made graham cracker crust is convenient, making your own homemade graham cracker crust is a great way to elevate the pie. You can easily find recipes online for homemade graham cracker crusts, which typically involve graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. A homemade crust often has a fresher, more buttery flavor and can be tailored to your preferred level of sweetness and thickness. Just make sure to pre-bake your homemade crust according to the recipe instructions before adding the filling.

These FAQs should cover common questions and concerns when making Million Dollar Pie with Cherries. Enjoy making and sharing this incredibly easy and delicious dessert!

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