Texas Trash Pie
Texas Trash Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of coconut. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this pie is perfect for any occasion. Its gooey texture and layered goodness make it a standout dessert that will impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dessert in the oven in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a simple weeknight treat. It suits any gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will enjoy helping to layer the ingredients and will love the sweet taste!
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this dessert ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Texas Trash Pie, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready helps ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for even cooking, allowing all layers to bake perfectly together.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for combining your ingredients without spilling or mess.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your pie.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
For the Filling
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Topping
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
How to Make Texas Trash Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Use your fingers or a spatula to press down gently, forming an even layer.
Step 3: Add the Layers
- Layer shredded coconut evenly over the graham cracker base.
- Next, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of the coconut.
- Finally, add chopped pecans for added crunch.
Step 4: Pour on Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over all layers. This binding ingredient is key to creating that gooey texture.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place your baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove from oven and allow cooling completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares to serve.
With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious Texas Trash Pie ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Texas Trash Pie
Texas Trash Pie is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, these suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.
For a Classic Serving
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
With Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for added richness and creaminess.
As Party Bites
- Cut the pie into small squares and serve on a platter for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced fruit to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing touch.
Coffee Companion
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the chocolate flavors in the pie.
How to Perfect Texas Trash Pie
To ensure your Texas Trash Pie reaches its full potential, follow these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the coconut and chocolate chips, are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Layer evenly: Distribute the layers evenly in the baking pan for consistent texture and taste throughout each bite.
- Check doneness: Keep an eye on the pie while it bakes. You want it golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
- Cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool fully before slicing helps maintain its shape and makes for easier serving.
- Store properly: Cover any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer.
Best Side Dishes for Texas Trash Pie
When serving Texas Trash Pie, consider these side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Each option adds variety and enhances your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the pie with creamy goodness.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a tart contrast that brightens up each bite.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for an indulgent twist on this already decadent dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds another layer of sweetness and richness that complements the pie perfectly.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake can provide a great contrast in texture while enhancing your coffee pairing.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich dessert and adds freshness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Texas Trash Pie, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the Preheating – Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
- Using Stale Ingredients – Fresh ingredients matter! Check the expiry dates on items like sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips to ensure maximum flavor.
- Overmixing the Layers – Layering is key in this recipe. Avoid overmixing after adding the condensed milk; you want distinct layers for texture.
- Not Letting it Cool – Patience is important. Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing helps it hold its shape and enhances the flavors.
- Ignoring Storage Tips – Proper storage maintains freshness. Follow specific instructions for refrigeration or freezing to enjoy later.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- You can keep it in the original baking pan covered with plastic wrap if you prefer.
Freezing Texas Trash Pie
- Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Use a freezer-safe container for whole pies, ensuring it’s well-sealed.
Reheating Texas Trash Pie
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Warm slices in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until heated through.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Texas Trash Pie.
What is Texas Trash Pie?
Texas Trash Pie is a layered dessert featuring graham crackers, coconut, chocolate chips, pecans, and sweetened condensed milk, baked to perfection.
Can I customize my Texas Trash Pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different nuts or swap out chocolate chips for butterscotch chips based on your taste preferences.
How should I serve Texas Trash Pie?
Serve Texas Trash Pie chilled or at room temperature. It pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Is Texas Trash Pie suitable for special diets?
While it’s not gluten-free due to graham crackers, there are gluten-free alternatives available. Check labels when shopping!
Final Thoughts
Texas Trash Pie is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering. Its gooey layers and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or chocolate varieties for a personal touch!
Texas Trash Pie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 squares 1x
Description
Texas Trash Pie is an indulgent, layered dessert that combines the delightful flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans into a gooey treat. Perfect for any gathering, this pie comes together in just a few steps, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Press graham cracker crumbs evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base.
- Layer shredded coconut over the crust, followed by semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the layers to bind them together.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
- Allow cooling completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
