Texas Brag Cakes
A delightful layered dessert featuring cherry pie filling, pineapple, coconut, pecans, and a buttery cake topping, perfect for gatherings and those who love sweet, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Melt one stick of margarine in a 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Mix cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple with the melted margarine.
- Add the dry cake mix to the mixture and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle coconut and chopped pecans on top of the cake mix.
- Slice the remaining stick of margarine and place on top of the pecans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon with the cherry pie filling and pineapple. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans. Make sure to use a good quality butter cake mix for the best texture. If you want a tropical twist, try adding some shredded lime zest.
Serving Suggestions
Texas Brag Cakes are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. Consider serving alongside a fruit salad or a light yogurt for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Brag Cakes contains roughly 829 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but you'll need to adjust the moisture levels. For fresh cherries and pineapple, consider cooking them down slightly to create a similar consistency to the canned versions. This will help maintain the cake's texture and prevent it from becoming too soggy.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the butter cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the pie filling and pineapple, are also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy Texas Brag Cakes without gluten concerns.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Texas Brag Cakes a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe, allow it to cool completely, then cover and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven to regain its crispy top or microwave individual slices for a quick treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).