Name: Texas Trash Pie: Gooey Goodness for Your Next Gathering
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 9 or 10-inch Frozen Deep Dish Pie Crust (Use store-bought or homemade.); 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips (Can substitute with milk chocolate.); 1 cup Pretzels, Coarsely Crushed (Can substitute with crushed peanuts or granola.); 1 cup Graham Crackers, Coarsely Crushed (Can use more pretzels for a saltier flavor.); 1 cup Shredded Coconut (Can omit or replace with graham crackers.); 3/4 cup Pecan Pieces (Can omit or substitute with sunflower seeds.); 1 cup Kraft Caramel Bits (Can substitute with chopped soft caramel candies.); 1/2 cup Melted Butter (Unsalted is preferred.); 1 can - 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk (Can use evaporated milk cautiously.)

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As I stumbled upon a cozy café in Texas, I couldn’t help but be drawn in by the aromas wafting through the air, an olfactory embrace that promised indulgence. That’s where I first encountered Texas Trash Pie, a delightful concoction that packs a punch of gooey sweetness alongside a salty crunch. This dessert is not just a treat but a celebration—perfect for sharing at Thanksgiving or any gathering where smiles are the main course. With its quick prep and simple ingredients, you can whip this beauty up in no time, converting even the most ardent takeout lovers into devoted home chefs. Curious about how this playful pie blends flavors in such a unique way? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why is Texas Trash Pie irresistible?

Decadent Layers: This pie features a heavenly combination of chocolate, caramel, and crunchy pretzels that creates a perfect sweet and salty experience.

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time—ideal for busy cooks.

Customizable Delight: Feeling adventurous? Tailor your pie with different nut or chip options, like butterscotch or even a graham cracker crust, to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable finale to any meal, guaranteeing smiles all around.

Perfect for Holidays: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual gathering, this Texas Trash Pie is a showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Texas Trash Pie Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to create this gooey dessert!

For the Pie Base

Frozen Deep Dish Pie Crust (9 or 10-inch) – Use a store-bought frozen crust for convenience, or make your own if preferred.

For the Filling

Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and depth; can substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
Pretzels, Coarsely Crushed (1 cup) – Adds a salty crunch; can substitute with crushed peanuts or granola for a similar texture.
Graham Crackers, Coarsely Crushed (1 cup) – Contributes texture and a hint of sweetness; can use more pretzels instead of graham crackers for a saltier profile.
Shredded Coconut (1 cup) – Introduces chewiness and tropical flavor; can omit or replace with additional graham crackers if undesired.
Pecan Pieces (3/4 cup) – Adds nuttiness and texture; omit for nut allergies or use sunflower seeds as a substitution.
Kraft Caramel Bits (1 cup) – Provides a rich caramel flavor; can substitute with chopped soft caramel candies if needed.
Melted Butter (1/2 cup) – Binds the ingredients together and enhances richness; unsalted butter is preferred for better control of salt levels.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can – 14 oz) – Acts as a sweetening base and adds a creamy texture; evaporated milk can be used cautiously, but may affect sweetness.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and make this delightful Texas Trash Pie that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Texas Trash Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack on the second to lowest spot to ensure even baking. This crucial step will create the perfect warm environment for your Texas Trash Pie to bake evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or until fully melted. Make sure to check it halfway through to avoid splattering. This melted butter will serve as the key binding agent for your delicious filling, providing richness to the Texas Trash Pie.

Step 3: Crush Your Crunchy Elements
Now, coarsely crush 1 cup of pretzels and 1 cup of graham crackers. You can do this by placing them in a plastic bag and rolling over with a rolling pin or using a food processor for a quicker method. This crunchy mixture will add texture and flavor, creating a delightful contrast in your pie.

Step 4: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In the same bowl with melted butter, add 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, your crushed pretzels and graham crackers, 1 cup of shredded coconut, ¾ cup of pecan pieces, and 1 cup of Kraft caramel bits. Pour in one can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk and mix thoroughly until every ingredient is well-coated, forming a gooey mixture that embodies the essence of Texas Trash Pie.

Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust
Carefully pour the filling mixture into the frozen deep dish pie crust. Use a spatula to gently spread the filling evenly across the crust, ensuring every bite is packed with the sweet, salty blend of flavors that make up your Texas Trash Pie. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect slice later!

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. After about 25-30 minutes, keep a close eye on the pie; if the top starts to brown too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, signaling that your Texas Trash Pie is nearly ready.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential as it helps the filling settle and makes for cleaner slices. The enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathered around, eager to indulge in this decadent Texas Trash Pie.

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What to Serve with Texas Trash Pie

Imagine a gathering where the sweet aroma of dessert fills the air, inviting everyone to indulge in a delightful end to the meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture pairs beautifully with the warm gooey pie, creating an irresistible contrast that will leave your guests wanting more.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop adds a fluffy, airy touch, balancing the pie’s richness and enhancing its decadent experience with each bite.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate the indulgence by drizzling warm caramel sauce on top, echoing the caramel bits in the pie while adding an extra layer of sweetness.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries lend a refreshing tartness that cuts through the pie’s richness, providing a bright burst of flavor and color.
Chocolate Milkshake: Cool and creamy, a chocolate milkshake makes for a sweet, satisfying drink that perfectly complements the Texas Trash Pie’s gooey goodness.
Pecan Pie Bars: For the nut enthusiasts, these bars echo the pie’s crunchy pecans and sweetened flavors, creating a delightful double dessert experience.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the dessert experience, balancing the sweet and savory notes of the pie with its rich, bold flavor.
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad offers a healthy counterbalance to the decadent pie, making for a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.

Texas Trash Pie Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this irresistible Texas Trash Pie; you might just discover a new favorite version!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter and sweetened condensed milk with coconut oil and coconut cream for a deliciously dairy-free treat.
Grain-Free: Use a gluten-free crust or crushed nuts to make this pie accessible for those avoiding gluten, all while keeping the flavors intact.
Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the filling for an unexpected kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
Fruit Infusion: Toss in some chopped fresh fruits like bananas or strawberries to the filling for added freshness and a vibrant pop of flavor.
Coconut-Free: If coconut isn’t your thing, simply replace it with more graham crackers for a deliciously sweet foundation that still boasts the pie’s signature gooeyness.
Chocolaty Goodness: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate to intensify the rich chocolate flavor and add a sophisticated touch.

These variations allow you to tailor the Texas Trash Pie to suit your taste buds or dietary needs perfectly! While you’re experimenting, consider checking out some delightful treats like Key Lime Pie or Butter Rice Krispie for more inspiration.

Make Ahead Options

These Texas Trash Pie preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can mix the filling (chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, graham crackers, coconut, pecans, caramel bits, butter, and sweetened condensed milk) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a richer taste. To maintain its delicious quality, avoid assembling it in the crust until just before you’re ready to bake and serve. When you’re ready to indulge, simply pour the chilled filling into the frozen pie crust, bake for 40-45 minutes, and enjoy this gooey delight that feels just as fresh as when made the same day!

Storage Tips for Texas Trash Pie

Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. Make sure it stays away from direct sunlight to maintain its delicious gooey filling.

Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to one week. This helps preserve its rich flavors and prevents drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a gooey treat, or enjoy it cold for a delightful twist on this Texas Trash Pie!

Expert Tips for Texas Trash Pie

Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing; this helps the filling set for cleaner, neater pieces.
Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary based on your oven; check after 25 minutes to avoid over-baking and ensure the gooey texture remains intact.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to experiment! For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with sunflower seeds, ensuring everyone can enjoy this Texas Trash Pie.
Avoid Over-Crusting: While mixing, be careful not to overly crush the pretzels or graham crackers; this keeps the filling’s texture delightful and varied.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate your dessert by serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finish.

Texas Trash Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for Texas Trash Pie?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for fresh and high-quality products. For chocolate chips, I recommend using semisweet for a balanced flavor, but milk chocolate can give it an extra sweetness. If you’re using pretzels, pick coarsely crushed ones to maintain that ideal crunchy texture. Fresh, firm pecans are best to ensure a roasted nutty flavor; if you’re allergic, sunflower seeds make a great substitute without compromising the dish’s overall taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover Texas Trash Pie?
Very important! After letting the pie cool, cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps to maintain its gooey goodness. If you’d prefer to keep it at room temperature, make sure to do so for only 2-3 days and out of direct light, ensuring it stays fresh and delightful!

Can I freeze Texas Trash Pie?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it can be kept for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to indulge, a quick warm-up in the microwave for 15-20 seconds brings back that fresh-baked gooeyness!

What are some common troubleshooting tips for Texas Trash Pie?
If your pie seems too gooey or undercooked, it might not have baked long enough, so always use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s browning too quickly on the top, don’t hesitate to cover it loosely with aluminum foil around the 25-30 minute mark. Additionally, if the filling appears overly thick, mix the ingredients well—but not too finely, as you want that delightful texture!

Are there any dietary considerations when making Texas Trash Pie?
Definitely! If you have guests with nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds instead. For those watching their sugar intake, consider using sugar-free sweetened condensed milk, which is widely available and will still provide that delicious creamy texture. This way, you can enjoy the sweet and salty balance of Texas Trash Pie without worry!

Can I customize the ingredients in Texas Trash Pie?
Very much! One of the joys of this recipe is how flexible it is. Swap out the shredded coconut for additional graham crackers or adjust the nuts according to your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try butterscotch or white chocolate chips to switch up the flavor profile? Go wild with your creativity!