Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! Let me introduce you to my all-time favorite dessert that’s the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and downright delicious — the Texas Trash Pie! Now, I know what you might be thinking. With a name like that, it can’t possibly be good, right? Trust me, this pie is anything but trash! It’s a delightful mess of flavors that comes together in a glorious way, and I can’t wait for you to try it.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during my college days. I was attending a potluck and saw a mix of textures and flavors that had me coming back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds!). This pie combines everything I love — crunchy pretzels, rich chocolate, and the sweetness of coconut and pecans. Not to mention, it’s super simple to whip up, making it my go-to dessert for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on this indulgent masterpiece!
What’s in Texas Trash Pie?
Pre-made pie crust: This saves a ton of time! Look for any brand you like; a 9-inch crust is just perfect for this recipe.
Crushed pretzels: They bring a delightful crunch and saltiness that creates a wonderful contrast with the sweet filling.
Chopped pecans: These add a rich, nutty flavor and crunch. Feel free to toast them for an even deeper taste!
Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate, you can’t go wrong! I usually lean towards semi-sweet for a well-balanced sweetness.
Shredded coconut: It gives a chewy texture and tropical sweetness. Honestly, who doesn’t love a little coconut?
Sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret to creamy goodness, keeping the pie rich and luscious.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor. I like to use a high-quality brand for the best results.
Brown sugar: It adds moisture and enhances the pie’s caramel undertones.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the deal! It’s key to balancing the flavors.
Eggs: They work as a binder to hold everything together and give the pie its structure.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the crust, it adds richness. You could use margarine in a pinch!
Vanilla extract: A splash of this classic flavor takes the whole pie to the next level.
Salt: Just a pinch helps to enhance all the sweet flavors. Don’t skip it!
Is Texas Trash Pie Good for You?
Alright, let’s talk about the health side of things. If I’m being honest, this pie is definitely a treat rather than a health food. But here’s the scoop:
Pretzels: Whole grain pretzels can add some fiber; however, they are generally high in carbohydrates.
Pecans: They’re a powerhouse of healthy fats! Packed with protein and fiber, a small handful can be beneficial.
Chocolate chips: Dark chocolate, in moderation, is known to have some health benefits like antioxidants, but let’s face it, you’re indulging here!
Coconut: It contains medium-chain triglycerides which can boost metabolism, but keep in mind there’s also sugar involved since we are using sweetened coconut here.
Given all those sugars, the Texas Trash Pie is high in calories and best enjoyed occasionally. It’s rich, decadent, and absolutely delightful for festive occasions or a cozy get-together. Just be mindful of your portion sizes!
How to Make Texas Trash Pie?
Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making this pie:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot for our pie.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed pretzels, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. Mix well and press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pre-made pie crust to form a solid crust layer.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
4. Pour the chocolatey mixture over your pretzel-pecan crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of shredded coconut over the top of the pie mixture — you can never have too much chocolate!
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pie is set and the top turns a light golden brown.
7. Once it’s baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing. Patience is key here!
Sweet Variations and Serving Ideas!
Now that you’ve got this delicious pie cooled and ready to go, here are a few fun tips to keep things interesting:
– **Flavor Variations:** Want to mix things up? Try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a delicious tart touch!
– **Nut Options:** Feel free to swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This pie is delightful at room temperature or chilled. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to take it up a notch.
So there you have it! Texas Trash Pie is a delightful mess of textures and flavors that I know you and your loved ones will adore. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to drop a comment after you make it. Enjoy every delicious bite!
