1jar(12 oz.) maraschino cherries, divided(be sure to buy stemless cherries)
1tablespoonmaraschino cherry juice(reserved from the jar)
1cupsweetened flaked coconut
1can(20 oz.) crushed pineapple, well drained
½cupchopped pecans(see note)
1can(14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
¼cupfresh lemon juice(from about 2 lemons)
1container(8 oz.) Cool Whip, thawed and divided(frozen whipped topping)
Instructions
Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving 1 tablespoon of juice for the filling. Measure 1 cup of cherries and finely chop them. Set the remaining cherries aside for garnish.
1 jar (12 oz.) maraschino cherries, divided
To drain crushed pineapple, place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl. Use a rubber spatula or large spoon to press out excess juice.
1 can (20 oz.) crushed pineapple, well drained
Add chopped cherries, cherry juice, coconut, drained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine.
1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice, 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut, ½ cup chopped pecans, 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk, ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
Fold in 1½ cups (about half of an 8 oz. container) of thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip). Be gentle; overmixing the filling could cause the whipped topping to deflate.
1 container (8 oz.) Cool Whip, thawed and divided
Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
1 (9 inch) graham cracker crust
Garnish with remaining Cool Whip and additional cherries right before serving.
1 jar (12 oz.) maraschino cherries, divided, 1 container (8 oz.) Cool Whip, thawed and divided
Notes
Crust notes: If you bake your graham cracker crust, be sure to cool it completely before adding the filling. You can use a 10 inch crust if you prefer. A shortbread or cookie crust is good, too.
Pecans have the best flavor if they are lightly toasted first. Toast the pecans in the oven, a skillet or the microwave. Cool completely and chop. Walnuts can be substituted.
Storage and freezing: Cover and store pie in the refrigerator. It will keep for 4 to 5 days but it's best within the first few days. To freeze, store the pie in an airtight freezer container or bag for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw for 15 minutes before cutting into slices and serving. Do not thaw completely.