Texas Trash Pie

When it comes to desserts, few things can compete with the simple joy of something ooey, gooey, and downright indulgent. That’s exactly what makes Texas Trash Pie such a crowd-pleaser! This delicious treat, a hybrid between a cookie bar and a pie, is packed with layers of flavor and texture—graham crackers, sweetened coconut, chocolate chips, pecans, and sweetened condensed milk—all baked into one luscious dessert.

Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an absolute win. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and impossible to resist. If you’ve been looking for a dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe, you’ve found it. So let’s dive into everything you need to know to create the perfect Texas Trash Pie!

By the way, don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest boards! Find more inspiring recipes on my Pinterest page: Emma Recipes.

Why This Recipe Will Steal Your Heart

There’s a lot to love about Texas Trash Pie. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need a stand mixer or any fancy equipment—just a baking pan and your favorite ingredients. It’s also a recipe that invites creativity. Want to swap pecans for walnuts? Go ahead! Prefer peanut butter chips over chocolate? Totally doable.

But what truly sets this pie apart is the flavor and texture. The combination of gooey sweetened condensed milk, crunchy pecans, and melted chocolate is a dessert lover’s dream. Each bite is buttery, sweet, and just the right amount of rich. It’s the kind of dessert that becomes a family favorite, a potluck staple, and the ultimate sweet fix for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you likely already have:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

These ingredients layer together to create a dessert that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.

What Does Texas Trash Pie Taste Like?

Think of it as the ultimate combination of everything good about cookies and pie. The base of graham crackers gives it a buttery, crumbly crust. The coconut adds chewiness, the pecans bring crunch, and the chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of flavor. Finally, the sweetened condensed milk ties it all together, caramelizing in the oven for a golden-brown finish.

If you’re someone who loves desserts that balance richness with texture, this pie is for you.

Tools You’ll Need

Making this pie is as fuss-free as it gets. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A 9×9-inch baking pan (an 8×8 pan will also work for thicker slices, or use a 9×13 pan for thinner layers).
• Parchment paper (optional but makes removing the pie much easier).
• A spatula for spreading the layers evenly.
• An oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).

Step-by-Step: How to Make Texas Trash Pie

Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. If you prefer easy cleanup, line the pan with parchment paper.

Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs evenly across the bottom of the pan to create the base. Next, layer the shredded coconut, followed by the chocolate chips, and then the chopped pecans.

Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Slowly pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the layers, ensuring it spreads evenly across the surface.

Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is bubbly.

Cool and Slice: Allow the pie to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut cleanly.

How to Serve Texas Trash Pie

Texas Trash Pie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further with a few serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pair it with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added sweetness.
• Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Customize Your Pie with Fun Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand:

• Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or macadamias instead of pecans.
• Chips: Mix in white chocolate, butterscotch, or even peanut butter chips for variety.
• Crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits for a fun twist.
• Finish with a Sprinkle: A pinch of flaky sea salt balances the sweetness beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool fully before slicing. This ensures the layers hold together.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh pecans and high-quality chocolate make a noticeable difference.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: The edges should be golden brown, signaling it’s done.

How to Store Texas Trash Pie

This pie stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert:

• Room Temperature: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Extend its life to 7 days by refrigerating in a sealed container.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use sweetened condensed coconut milk instead of regular condensed milk.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
No problem! You can use crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger pan (such as 9×13) and adjust the baking time slightly.

More Sweet Treats to Try

If you’re in the mood for more desserts like Texas Trash Pie, I’ve got you covered! Check out these reader-favorite recipes:

• Brown Sugar Pumpkin Scones: Perfectly spiced and topped with a sweet glaze, these scones are an autumn dream.
• Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars: A chewy, hearty snack bar that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Vanilla Chia Pudding with Cinnamon: Light, creamy, and packed with healthy ingredients, this pudding is an easy make-ahead treat.

Share Your Creations

If you make this Texas Trash Pie, I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Pinterest at Emma Recipes or leave a review to let me know how it turned out. Your feedback and photos always make my day!

Final Thoughts

Texas Trash Pie is one of those magical recipes that checks all the boxes: easy to make, incredibly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a piece on your own, this dessert is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!

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