Tired Wife Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Cuisine: American

A rich, fruity sheet cake layered with apple pie filling, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and nuts, perfect for family gatherings or casual dessert cravings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can apple pie filling
  • 1 can crushed pineapple with juice
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 2 sticks melted butter or margarine
  • 1/2 cup dry shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare a sheet cake pan by either spraying with Baker's Joy or greasing and flouring the pan.
  2. Layer apple pie filling, crushed pineapple with juice, and dry cake mix in the prepared pan.
  3. Pour melted butter over the layered ingredients.
  4. Sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the layers.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until browned, about 35 to 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg with the dry cake mix. If you prefer, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version or use a spice cake mix for a different twist. You can also replace the coconut with chopped dried fruit for a unique texture. Don't skimp on the butter, as it enhances the richness of the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with Vallie Rogers' Sugar Pudding for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-30 seconds until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain the cake's moist texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tired Wife Cake contains roughly 1428 calories, with 13g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1428 kcal 71% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13g 26% DV
Total Fat 113.6g 100% DV
Carbs 104.2g 38% DV
Fiber 14.1g 50% DV
Sugar 19.3g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 393.9mg 17% DV
Potassium 641.9mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 90mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 8mg 9% DV
Calcium 173.5mg 13% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 apples instead of apple pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh apples. Slice them thinly, toss with a bit of sugar and cinnamon, and layer them in place of the apple pie filling. This will give the cake a fresher taste and you can control the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just bake, let it cool, and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving, or warm it up slightly to enhance the flavors.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans or walnuts?

Definitely! You can substitute with slivered almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will add a different flavor and texture to the cake, allowing for customization based on your preference.

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).

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