Okay, here we go! Let’s dive into a recipe that’s a total game-changer for busy moms like us: Texas Trash Pie! I’m so excited to share this because it’s one of those sanity-saving nutrition wins that feels like a treat but is secretly packed with goodness. This recipe saved me during a particularly chaotic school year.

The Texas Trash Pie became a weekend staple, satisfying everyone’s sweet cravings. It also gave me some peace of mind knowing that it has wholesome ingredients. Trust me; you’ll love this Texas Trash Pie as much as my family does. Ready for some simple nutrition?

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy and delicious Texas Trash Pie:

1 package (14.4 ounces) graham crackers, crushed: Adds a sweet and sturdy base. No worries if you’re out of graham crackers! I use crushed pretzels for a salty twist in my Texas Trash Pie.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together beautifully.
1 cup granulated sugar: For the perfect sweetness. I sometimes use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy filling.
1/4 cup light corn syrup: Keeps the filling smooth and prevents crystallization.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds a classic chocolatey touch. My kids get extra nutrition when I use dark chocolate chips in this Texas Trash Pie!
1 cup chopped pecans: Provides a nutty crunch and healthy fats.
1 cup shredded coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and texture.
1 cup caramel bits: For that irresistible caramel sweetness.
1 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces: Introduces a delightful salty element.

Trust me, this Texas Trash Pie ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! I find all these wholesome ingredients at my regular grocery store, making it easy to whip up this treat any time. This Texas Trash Pie proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. Here’s a Texas Trash Pie nutrition hack that changed our family’s health. I often buy these ingredients in bulk to save both time and money!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Here’s how to create this family-friendly Texas Trash Pie, step by step!

Prepare the Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Let the crust cool completely. While it’s cooling, take a moment to prep tomorrow’s lunch!

Make the Filling:

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Texas Trash Pie – learn from my experience! Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.

Add the Goodies:

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate chips, pecans, coconut, caramel bits, and pretzels.
Pour the hot cream mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared crust.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
Slice and serve chilled. Your Texas Trash Pie should smell nourishing by now. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!

In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Texas Trash Pie usually takes about 20 minutes to prep and 8-10 minutes to bake the crust. Don’t worry if your Texas Trash Pie looks a little uneven; it will still taste amazing! This is a fantastic recipe to get the kids involved – they love helping with the mixing. Here’s a Texas Trash Pie nutrition shortcut that my family enjoys: I sometimes add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty flavor! While your Texas Trash Pie is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!

How We Love to Eat This!

My family loves this Texas Trash Pie in so many ways!

As a Dessert: Perfect after a family dinner, especially on those nights when we need a little extra joy. The kids devour this nutritious Texas Trash Pie when I serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – a perfect balance of warm and cold.
With Fruit: A side of fresh berries adds extra vitamins and fiber. This is why I love this Texas Trash Pie Recipe perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!
As a Snack: A small slice can be a satisfying afternoon treat.
For Gatherings: It’s always a hit at potlucks and parties. It is fun to share this Yummy Texas Trash Pie.
Seasonal Twist: I sometimes add seasonal fruits or nuts to make it even more special.
Holiday Treat: During the holidays I serve this with whipped cream and hot chocolate. Nothing beats a delicious Texas Trash Pie around the holidays.

For presentation, I like to dust the top with a little cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt. My guests always rave about how surprisingly delicious and unique this Texas Trash Pie is. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They still taste amazing! Serving this alongside some fruit to boost the nutritional value is always a big win with the family!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions I get from fellow moms about this Texas Trash Pie:

Is this Texas Trash Pie really nutritious enough for growing kids? Absolutely! While it’s a treat, it contains nuts, which provide healthy fats and protein. I also use dark chocolate, which has antioxidants. Plus, you can always add more nutritious ingredients like flax seeds or chia seeds!
What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Texas Trash Pie? Start by letting them help with the preparation. Kids are more likely to try something they’ve helped make. You can also offer a very small piece alongside something they already love. I often tell my kids it’s “treasure pie” to pique their interest!
Can I meal prep this Texas Trash Pie for busy weeks ahead? Yes! This is a great make-ahead dessert. You can bake the crust and prepare the filling separately, then assemble it the day before you need it. It keeps well in the refrigerator for several days.
Can I use gluten-free graham crackers? Of course! Gluten-free graham crackers work perfectly in this recipe. You can also use a gluten-free pretzel crust for a salty twist.
Can I reduce the sugar content? Yes, you can reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste and texture.
How should I store my leftover Texas Trash Pie? Store your Texas Trash Pie in the refrigerator covered for up to 3 days. It tastes great chilled!
Can I use a different kind of nut in my Texas Trash Pie? Sure! If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or any other nut you prefer. This Texas Trash Pie adapts well to different preferences!

This Texas Trash Pie has become a beloved dessert in my household, and I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine. It’s a simple, delicious way to satisfy those sweet cravings while adding a touch of nutrition to your day.

Final Thoughts:

This Texas Trash Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a reminder that we can create moments of joy and connection in the midst of our busy lives. It supports my family’s nutrition goals because it includes nuts, which provide healthy fats and protein, and I can easily sneak in other healthy ingredients like chia seeds or flax seeds.

My Texas Trash Pie Nutrition Hacks:

Dark Chocolate Boost: Using dark chocolate chips adds antioxidants. My kids don’t even notice the difference!
Nutty Goodness: I sometimes add a mix of nuts, like walnuts and almonds, for extra nutrition and variety.
Fruit Power: Serving it with fresh berries adds vitamins and fiber.

Family-Tested Healthy Texas Trash Pie Variations:

Peanut Butter Delight: Add a layer of peanut butter to the crust before adding the filling. My son loves this version!
Tropical Twist: Use macadamia nuts and dried mango for a tropical flavor. My daughter prefers this one!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising kick. My husband enjoys this adventurous twist!

I encourage you to make this recipe your own and find ways to adapt it to your family’s preferences and needs. I hope this recipe inspires you to create more delicious and nutritious moments with your loved ones. Give this Texas Trash Pie a try and let me know what you think! Happy baking, fellow nutrition-seekers!

Texas Trash Pie

Print Recipe

This quirky Texas Trash Pie is a sweet and salty dessert that’s surprisingly addictive! Pecans, pretzels, chocolate chips, and coconut come together in a buttery crust for an unforgettable treat.

Author: Juliette
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
1 cup pecan halves
1 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9-inch pie plate with one pie crust. Crimp edges.
In a large bowl, combine pecans, pretzels, coconut, and chocolate chips.
In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Let cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!