Alright, come on in, y’all! Grab a seat at the kitchen table – I’ve got something really special to share with you today. It’s a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart, a dish that always brings a smile to everyone’s face: my family’s favorite Texas Trash Pie. Now, I know what you might be thinking… “Trash Pie?” Trust me, it’s anything but trash! It’s pure gold, a symphony of sweet and salty flavors all wrapped up in one delicious pie crust.
I remember the first time I tried to make this Texas Trash Pie. My grandma, bless her heart, had scribbled the recipe on a napkin years ago, and let’s just say, the instructions were a little vague. I ended up with a filling that was more like soup than pie! The crust was soggy, and the whole thing looked like a culinary disaster. But you know what? It still tasted amazing! That’s the beauty of this Texas Trash Pie; it’s almost foolproof, even if you’re prone to kitchen mishaps like I am (and believe me, I’ve had my fair share!).
Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected Grandma’s recipe. I discovered that using high-quality ingredients really makes a difference. I also learned the hard way that blind baking the crust is crucial for preventing a soggy bottom. It’s those little lessons, those “aha” moments, that make cooking so rewarding, don’t you think? It’s a journey, not a destination. This delightful dessert is a spin off of the amazing Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe.
This Texas Trash Pie has become a staple in our family. It’s the first thing requested at potlucks, the perfect treat for a cozy movie night, and honestly, sometimes I just whip one up on a Tuesday because why not? Life is too short to skip dessert. Especially when that dessert is filled with pecans, chocolate chips, caramel, and pretzels! If you love this pie then you’ll want to try the recipe for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet as well.
My cooking philosophy is all about making delicious, approachable food that brings people together. I believe that cooking should be fun, not stressful. And that even the busiest of families can enjoy a homemade meal (or pie!) with a little planning and a few shortcuts. So, that’s why I want to share this Texas Trash Pie recipe with you. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Come on, let’s get baking! I promise, you’ll love this sweet dessert pie as much as my family does!
What You’ll Need for This Texas Trash Pie
Okay, let’s talk ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to create this magical Texas Trash Pie. And don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples. I always try to keep these ingredients on hand, because you never know when a pie craving might strike!

- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust: You can use store-bought (I won’t judge!) or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious. I always use a refrigerated pie crust because it’s quick and easy.
- 1 cup pecan halves: I always use fresh pecans for my Texas Trash Pie. The flavor is just so much better.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: I like to use Ghirardelli, but any good quality chocolate chip will do.
- 1 cup caramel bits: These little guys add a chewy sweetness that’s irresistible. When making Texas Trash Pie, you can find these in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
- 1 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces: The pretzels provide that perfect salty crunch that balances out the sweetness.
- 3 large eggs: Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Because every good pie needs a little sweetness.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: I always use real butter for baking. The flavor is just incomparable.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: This balances out the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup: This helps to create a smooth, glossy filling.
Here’s a Texas Trash Pie trick I learned from my grandma: toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the pie. It brings out their nutty flavor even more! Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pretzels. Sometimes I use honey wheat pretzels for a little extra flavor. For a great shopping tip, buy your pecans in bulk and freeze them. They’ll last much longer that way.
Want to save some money? Check your local dollar store for baking ingredients like chocolate chips and caramel bits. You might be surprised at what you can find! Here’s a tip for easy clean up: line your baking sheet with parchment paper. That way if you get any overflow from the cookie pie there’s nothing to scrape off the bottom of the sheet.
As for storage, leftover Texas Trash Pie should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. I doubt it will last that long, though! Who can resist a slice of this deliciousness? And that’s it! With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making the best Texas Trash Pie you’ve ever tasted!
Let’s Make This Texas Trash Pie Together
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty and make this amazing Texas Trash Pie! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step of the way. It’s easier than you think, I promise!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, let’s get that pie crust ready. If you’re using a store-bought crust, just unroll it and place it in your pie plate. If you’re feeling ambitious and making your own, kudos to you!
- Blind bake the pie crust. This is crucial for preventing a soggy bottom! Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. I learned the hard way with Texas Trash Pie that skipping this step leads to disaster!
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. It should be nice and smooth. In my kitchen, the pecan pie filling usually takes about 2 minutes to come together.
- Stir in the pecans, chocolate chips, caramel bits, and pretzels. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens! Don’t worry if your Texas Trash Pie filling seems a little thick; it will all melt together beautifully in the oven.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread it evenly. Now, take a deep breath and admire your creation! It’s going to be so good!
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The center of the Texas Trash Pie should be slightly jiggly, but not liquid. This is super important!
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving. This is the hardest part, I know! But trust me, it’s worth the wait. As the sweet dessert pie cools, the filling will set up perfectly.
- Enjoy! Seriously, that’s it! You’ve just created a masterpiece. Take a picture, share it with your friends, and then dig in!
While the Texas Trash Pie is cooking, I usually do a quick sweep of the kitchen to tidy up. It helps to keep me from snacking on it before it’s ready! Your Texas Trash Pie should smell like a warm, nutty, chocolatey dream. If you smell something burning, check on it immediately! I once got distracted by a phone call and almost burned a Texas Trash Pie to a crisp.
Here’s a family-tested shortcut: use a pre-made graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust. It adds a different flavor dimension and saves you time!
Don’t forget to check out this Texas Trash Pie Recipe (Super Easy Southern Dessert) – Together … for another take on this southern pie recipe! Now go whip up this amazing recipe! You’ll be thanking me later!
How I Love to Serve This Texas Trash Pie
Okay, now that you’ve baked this masterpiece, let’s talk about how to serve it! This Texas Trash Pie is incredibly versatile, so there are endless ways to enjoy it.
My family loves this Texas Trash Pie when I serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm pie and cold ice cream is just divine! And a little drizzle of caramel sauce never hurts, either! If you want to get fancy, you can add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
I love to pair this Texas Trash Pie with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the sweetness of the pie perfectly. And honestly, sometimes I just eat it straight out of the fridge for a late-night snack. Don’t judge!
This Texas Trash Pie is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any special occasion. It’s always a hit with both kids and adults. I’ve even made it for birthday parties and baby showers. It’s just that good!
For presentation, I like to dust the top of the Texas Trash Pie with a little powdered sugar before serving. It adds a touch of elegance and makes it look extra special. You can also arrange slices of the pie on a platter with fresh berries for a pop of color.
If you have extra Texas Trash Pie (which is rare!), you can crumble it over yogurt or ice cream for a delicious parfait. You can also chop it up and add it to your favorite cookie dough recipe. The possibilities are endless!
For seasonal variations, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling during the fall. Or, for a summer twist, top the pie with fresh peaches or raspberries. I even tried a Texas Trash Pie once with a hint of orange zest, and it was incredible!
Friends always ask for this Texas Trash Pie recipe when they taste it. It’s just so unique and flavorful! One friend even told me it was the best pie she had ever eaten. I think that’s the ultimate compliment!
And, by the way, if you’re looking for another amazing Southern dessert, check out my Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe as well! You won’t be disappointed. To get another yummy flavor, try this post about Yummy and easy dessert I make a Texas trash pie with pecans …!
So, there you have it! All my tips and tricks for serving this incredible Texas Trash Pie. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound baking skills!
Your Texas Trash Pie Questions Answered
I know you probably have some questions about making this Texas Trash Pie, so I’ve compiled a list of the most common ones I get asked. And don’t worry, there are no silly questions when it comes to pie!
Q: Can I use a frozen pie crust instead of a refrigerated one?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before using it. You know what I do when my Texas Trash Pie is made with frozen pie crust? I like to let it thaw in the fridge overnight. It ensures that it thaws evenly and doesn’t get soggy.
Q: What if I don’t have caramel bits?
A: No problem! You can use chopped caramels instead. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce to the filling. It’ll add a similar flavor and texture. My family likes to have the filling filled with caramel, sometimes so much that the chocolate chip pie becomes a caramel pie.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! In fact, I often make it a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. The flavors actually meld together even more over time.
Q: What if my pie crust is browning too quickly?
A: If that happens, you can cover the edges of the crust with foil. This will prevent them from burning. I learned this trick the hard way!
Q: Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
A: Of course! Walnuts or almonds would be delicious in this Texas Trash Pie. Just make sure to toast them lightly before adding them to the filling. I even had a friend once who used macadamia nuts because she didn’t like pecans. It was just as good!
Q: My filling is too runny, what did I do wrong?
A: This could be because you didn’t bake the pie long enough, or because your oven temperature wasn’t accurate. Make sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is heating properly. Also, be sure to let the Texas Trash Pie cool completely before slicing it. The filling will set up more as it cools.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A: Absolutely! This Texas Trash Pie is very forgiving. Some people like to add coconut flakes, toffee bits, or even a splash of bourbon. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors! You can even check out Texas Trash Pie – 5 Boys Baker for even more additions!
Q: Why is my pie crust soggy?
A: There could be several reasons. Make sure you’re blind baking the crust properly. Also, avoid overfilling the pie with liquid. And be sure to let the Texas Trash Pie cool completely before slicing it.
See, I told you. There are no bad questions!
My Final Thoughts on This Texas Trash Pie
Well, there you have it! My family’s favorite Texas Trash Pie recipe, shared with you from my kitchen to yours. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s more than just a pie; it’s a symbol of love, comfort, and togetherness. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my grandma, of family gatherings, and of all the sweet moments in life.
Here are my Texas Trash Pie Pro Tips:
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
- Always use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Be patient and let the pie cool completely before slicing it.
We’ve tried many Texas Trash Pie variations over the years. My son loves it with extra chocolate chips, while my daughter prefers it with more caramel. And my husband? He just wants a big slice, no matter what!
I’ve also tried making a Texas Trash Pie with a gluten-free crust, and it turned out great! You can also use different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate or white chocolate. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, try adding a layer of peanut butter to the bottom of the crust before adding the filling. You can even consider sprinkling cinnamon on top of the cookie pie.
My hope is that this Texas Trash Pie recipe brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine. I want you to feel confident in your kitchen, to embrace the imperfections, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. I hope you get to enjoy the sweet dessert pie just as much as me and my family do.
So, go ahead, give it a try! Don’t be intimidated by the name. This Texas Trash Pie is anything but trashy. It’s pure deliciousness! And who knows, it might just become your family’s new favorite dessert. Happy baking!

Texas Trash Pie
Texas Trash Pie is a sweet and salty dessert masterpiece! With a pretzel crust, creamy filling, and candy toppings, it’s an irresistible treat that will disappear fast.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini pretzels, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Assorted candy bars (Snickers, Reese’s, Milky Way, etc.), chopped
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gently fold in whipped topping.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the cooled pretzel crust.
- Sprinkle chopped candy bars evenly over the filling.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and chocolate syrup (if desired) before serving.
Notes
For an extra salty kick, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of the pie before refrigerating. You can also substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream.

