What Is Texas Pie? A 3-Step Dessert That's Even Better Than Cobbler

Texas is known for its big, bold flavors, and of course, its big, bold size. So, when I saw a dessert called ‘Texas Pie’ rising in our recipe rankings and, as a Texas resident, had no idea what it was, I needed to learn more. After doing a little research, I discovered users call this dish “heavenly,” “outstanding” and so easy, your kids can put it together. But what, exactly, is it, and why is it so popular on our site?

You might think ‘Texas Pie’ would be a riff on classic Texas Pecan Pie or even a Texas Trash Pie (a “kitchen sink” kind of dessert and staple of the Hill Country). But no—our Texas Pie is totally different. In fact, it’s not really a pie at all. 

What Is Texas Pie?

As it turns out, Texas Pie isn’t known universally in the culinary world as one specific pie, but it is well-known among our users as a quick and comforting dessert favorite. We have our guesses as to why this dish is named after the Lone Star state, but all we know for certain is that, according to the recipe creator, “it’s as big as Texas.”

Pies, sheet cakes, and cobblers are three of the most popular dessert offerings in Texas, and this dish practically blends all three sweets into one. It’s moist, rich, loaded with texture, and, best of all, it’s ready in just 3 steps. 

“Okay, something so good shouldn't be sooo easy, but it is!!!” user Rebecca Ross comments.

This Texas-sized treat is made with just six ingredients and is loaded with flavor from the cherry pie filling, crushed pineapples and coconut. It's made almost entirely from pantry staples (you guessed it—boxed cake mix is one of them), and feels more like a dump cake than any pie you’ve ever made before. 

How To Make Texas Pie

Just pour the six ingredients, one at a time, into your trusty 9x13 baking dish and bake—you don’t even have to stir. The top gets golden and crispy, while the inside stays fluffy and moist, like a fruit cobbler. In under an hour, your soft, sweet, rave-worthy dessert is ready for a crowd (and maybe a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream). 

The tart and sweet combination of the cherries and pineapple gives the dessert a pineapple upside-down cake feel, while the coconut and pecans offer a nutty flavor and texture. The layered structure makes for a beautiful presentation whether you keep it in the glass 9x13 dish or cut it into squares.

This decadent dish is perfect for holiday meals, picnic potlucks, or anytime you need to whip up dessert in a pinch. If you don’t love cherry flavor, users suggest using peach, strawberry or even blueberry pie filling in its place. “Every time I make this, people ask me for the recipe,” says community member joybd.

So, while there may not be one clear definition for Texas Pie, I think one Allrecipes Member accurately summed up why it's so popular in a single word: “YUMMY!”

Get the Recipe: Texas Pie