When you’re craving a dessert that’s over-the-top indulgent and shockingly easy to make, this Texas Trash Pie delivers big time. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with textures—from crunchy pecans to silky chocolate pudding, all topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips.
This dessert is affectionately called “trash pie” because it throws together all the best dessert ingredients into one glorious bite. But don’t be fooled by the name—this pie is anything but trash. It’s a Southern favorite that combines salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy layers into one unforgettable treat.
What Is Texas Trash Pie?
Texas Trash Pie is a layered, no-bake dessert that typically starts with a graham cracker crust, followed by layers of chocolate pudding, whipped cream cheese filling, chopped pecans, chocolate chips, and sometimes coconut or toffee bits.
It’s like a chocolate cream pie taken to the next level—with no oven required and all the flavor you could ask for.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake dessert—perfect for hot days
- Layers of chocolate, cream, nuts, and more
- Quick to make with store-bought shortcuts
- Crowd-pleaser at potlucks, BBQs, and parties
- Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins
What Does Texas Trash Pie Taste Like?
It’s creamy, chocolaty, crunchy, and sweet with just the right hint of saltiness from the nuts. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery crunch, while the chocolate layer is smooth and rich. The whipped cream cheese topping is fluffy and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Every bite is packed with texture—creamy, crunchy, silky, and chewy all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: ¼ cup shredded coconut or toffee bits for extra texture
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Spoon for layering
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
- Use Oreo crust instead of graham cracker crust for extra chocolate flavor
- Add coconut or toffee bits for extra crunch
- Use sugar-free pudding for a lighter option
How to Make Texas Trash Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Layer
In a bowl, whisk chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes. Let it set for 5 minutes until thick.
Step 2: Make the Cream Layer
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping gently.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Spread chocolate pudding into the graham cracker crust. Layer the cream cheese mixture on top of the pudding. Sprinkle chopped pecans and chocolate chips over the top.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
Step 5: Serve
Slice and serve cold. Add extra toppings if desired.
What to Serve with Texas Trash Pie
- A hot cup of coffee
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side
- Whipped cream drizzle for extra flair
Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese fully to avoid lumps
- Use instant pudding, not cook-and-serve
- Chill at least 2 hours for the best texture
- Store leftovers in the fridge—this pie keeps well for 3 days
Storage and Reheating
Store Texas Trash Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is not freezer-friendly as the texture will change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Texas Trash Pie?
Because it’s a mix of all your favorite “trash” ingredients—nuts, chocolate, cream, and more—thrown together into one pie.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made a day ahead so the layers can set.
Is this pie gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free graham crust and check your pudding mix to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion
Texas Trash Pie is the ultimate easy dessert for chocolate lovers. It’s no-bake, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any party or gathering. With layers of cream, chocolate, and crunch, it’s impossible to resist.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
Calories: 420
Protein: 5g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 320mg
Texas Trash Pie: The Ultimate No-Bake Chocolate Lovers’ Dessert
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
Description
A no-bake layered dessert with chocolate pudding, whipped cream cheese, crunchy pecans, and chocolate chips on a graham cracker crust. The ultimate indulgent pie!
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
– 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
– 1 ½ cups cold milk
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ½ cup mini chocolate chips
– Optional: ¼ cup shredded coconut or toffee bits
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes. Let set for 5 minutes.
2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
4. Spread chocolate pudding into the graham cracker crust.
5. Top with the cream cheese mixture.
6. Sprinkle pecans and chocolate chips on top.
7. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
– Use Oreo crust for more chocolate flavor.
– Add coconut or toffee bits for extra texture.
– Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
Keywords: texas trash pie, no bake chocolate pie, easy dessert, chocolate pecan pie, southern dessert, no bake pie recipe
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