Truly Texan Desserts You Should Try at Least Once

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Texas is a state known for its large size, diverse geography, and love of all things sweet. From blueberry muffins to peach cobbler, Texans have a sweet tooth unmatched by any other state in the country. And while Texas may be best known for its delicious barbecue, there is no denying that Texas sweets play a starring role in the Lone Star State's cuisine. Texans know how to enjoy a good dessert, whether pecan pie at a family reunion or strawberry shortcake at a Fourth of July picnic. So if you're visiting Texas soon, you'll want to find some amazing dessert near me!

Here are just a few of the truly Texan desserts (What wine goes well with desserts?) that you should try at least once.

Texas Sheet Cake

Texas sheet cake is a chocolate (What wine goes well with chocolate?) cake famous in the American South. Everything is indeed big in Texas, and the Texas Sheet Cake is famous for its Texas-sized pan. It is typically made with chocolate and garnished with chopped nuts (how long do nuts last?). The cake is often served at parties and even funerals. It is usually topped with rich chocolate frosting or icing.

Texas Sheet Cake

Texas sheet cake has a long history and is believed to have originated in the 19th century. Cake became popular during the Great Depression when people looked for ways to stretch their food budget. 

Texas sheet cake remains popular today and is one of the most requested recipes at Southern get-togethers. Texas sheet cake is a delicious and economical dessert when made with quality ingredients. So whether you are hosting a party or want a slice of home-baked goodness, Texas sheet cake is sure to please.

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Where to Try Texas Sheet Cake:

That's The Cake

Location: Arlington, TX 

Link: https://thatsthecake.com/products/texas-sheet-cake

Pecan Pie

Texas is known for many things: its large size, its diverse population, and its cowboy culture. But one of Lone Star State's lesser-known claims to fame is its pecan pie. This delicious dessert has a long and rich history in Texas, dating back to the Republic's early days. Over the years, the recipe for pecan pie has evolved, but the essential ingredients have remained the same.

Today, Texas is home to many variations of the classic pecan pie, each with its unique twist. So whether you prefer your pie with a chocolate crust, whipped cream (how long does cream last?), or a bourbon-laced filling, there's a Texas pecan pie for you. So next time you're in the Lone Star State, indulge in a slice (or two) of this Texas tradition.

Where to Try Pecan Pie:

Goode Co. Texas BBQ

Location: Houston, TX 

Link: https://shop.goodecompany.com/pecan-pie/

Texas-Style Peach Cobbler

Texas is known for its delicious peach cobbler. Texans have enjoyed this sweet and satisfying dessert for generations. The peach cobbler was designated the official state cobbler of Texas in 2013 to recognize its deliciousness and important place in Texas history. Peach cobbler originated in the early days of Texas when settlers would make do with what they had on hand to create a satisfying dessert. Over the years, Texas peach cobbler has become a beloved tradition enjoyed by Texans of all ages.

Texas-Style Peach Cobbler

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Today, peach cobbler remains a popular dessert that Texans and visitors to the Lone Star State enjoy. Whether you want your cobbler with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, there's no denying that peach cobbler is a Texas tradition that is here to stay!

Where to Try Texas-Style Peach Cobbler:

The Old Fashioned Cobbler

Location: Grand Prarie, TX

Link: https://www.theoldfashionedcobbler.com/order-online

Hummingbird Cake

Texas is well known for its diverse cuisine, and hummingbird cake is a delicious example of the state's culinary traditions. This rich and flavorful cake is thought to have originated in the Caribbean, where it was made with banana, pineapple, and pecans (how long do pecans last?). The cake eventually made its way to the Southern United States, where it became a popular dessert.

Hummingbird Cake

Today, Texas is home to some of the best hummingbird cakes in the country. Bakers in Texas often add their unique twists to the recipe, making it even more delicious. Whether you enjoy hummingbird cake as a traditional Southern dessert or as a special Texas treat, there's no doubt this delightful cake is here to stay.

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Where to Try Hummingbird Cake:

Cake Bar

Location: Dallas, TX

Link: https://cakebardallas.com/products/hummingbird-cake

Sopaipilla

Sopaipillas are a type of fried pastry that is popular in Texas. The name sopaipilla comes from the Spanish word for "honey cake." These pastries are made by deep frying a dough similar to that used for doughnuts. Sopaipillas are typically served with honey or syrup and can be used as bread to accompany savory dishes. While they are most commonly associated with Texas cuisine, sopaipillas originated in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Texas Sopaipilla

They became popular in Texas during the early 20th century when many retailers began selling them as cheap and convenient snacks. In 2003, the Texas Legislature declared the sopaipilla the Official State Pastry of Texas. However, this designation was short-lived and rescinded just two years later. Despite this setback, sopaipillas remain a cherished part of Texas culture.

Where to Try Sopaipilla:

Rosa's cafe

Location: Fort Worth, TX

Link: https://www.rosascafe.com/

Texas Cowboy Cookies

Texas is well-known for its cowboys, and the cowboy lifestyle has left a lasting impression on Texas culture. One of the most popular Texas foods is the Cowboy Cookie. Legend has it that the Cowboy Cookie was created by a couple of cowboys looking for a hearty snack after a long day on the trail. So they rustled up what they could find and made a tasty treat loaded with pecans, oats (how long do oats last?), and chocolate chips.

Texas Cowboy Cookies

Today, Cowboy Cookies are still a popular Texas treat. They can be found in bakeries, and grocery stores across the state and are often served at Texas events such as rodeos and barbecues. Whether you're a Texan or not, there's no denying that Cowboy Cookies are delicious. So, give them a try next time you're in the Lone Star State.

Where to Try Texas Cowboy Cookies:

HEAVEN'S BISTRO BAKERY

Location: Austin, TX

Link: https://www.orderheavensbistrobakery.com

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Southern Buttermilk Pie

Texas is well-known for its delicious food, and one of the state's most iconic dishes is a classic southern buttermilk pie. This rich and creamy dessert is thought to have originated in England, where it was brought to the United States by Southern settlers. Texas quickly became a hub for buttermilk pie, due to the large amount of buttermilk produced in the state. Texas homesteaders were very resourceful with this inexpensive ingredient. They quickly developed a reputation for making some of the best buttermilk pies in the country.

Texas Southern Buttermilk Pie

Today, buttermilk pie is still a popular dish in Texas, and it can be found on the menus of many restaurants across the state. So if you're ever in Texas, try a slice of this delicious pie topped with a generous serving of whipped cream!

Where to Try Southern Buttermilk Pie:

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

Location: Arlington, TX

Link: https://www.buttermilkskypie.com/locations/arlington/

Banana Pudding

Texas is well-known for its agriculture, but not all Texas staples are homegrown. Banana pudding is a prime example. This dish is a staple at Southern potlucks, weddings, funerals, and summer cookouts. Still, it's unrelated to the area's agricultural history. So how did banana pudding become such a Texas staple? It's believed that the dish was first introduced to the South through a steady influx of bananas (how long do bananas last?) from Panama.

Banana Pudding

Bananas were a rare and exotic fruit, often used as a currency or symbol of wealth. But, over time, the dish became a Texas favorite. Today, banana pudding is still a popular dessert across the state. It's often served with vanilla wafers (how long do vanilla wafers last?) or fresh fruit and remains a key part of Texas culinary culture.

Where to Try Banana Pudding:

Mesquite Pit

Location: Weatherford, TX

Link: http://www.mesquitepit.com/food-menu---weatherford.html

Texas Fried Ice Cream

Fried ice cream is a classic Texas dessert that will never go out of style. It's a tasty treat that always hits the spot, making it a great way to cool down on a hot Texas day. Also, it's an affordable dessert that can easily be shared with friends.

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Texas Fried Ice Cream

Fried ice cream is a dessert you can customize to your liking by adding your favorite toppings, making it fun to drive home with your kids, loved by Texans and non-Texans alike. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, try Texas' favorite fried ice cream! You won't be disappointed.

Where to Try Texas Fried Ice Cream:

Don Carlos Restaurant

Location: Waco, TX

Link: https://www.doncarlosrestaurants.com/waco-menu#menu=dinner-menu

German Chocolate Cake

When most people think of German chocolate cake, they picture a rich, chocolatey cake blanketed in a thick layer of coconut-pecan frosting. What they may need to learn, however, is that the German chocolate cake is actually from somewhere other than Germany.

German Chocolate Cake

On June 3, 1957, a "German Chocolate Cake" recipe appeared as the "Recipe of the Day" in The Dallas Morning News. Mrs. George Clay, a homemaker from 3831 Academy Drive, Dallas, Texas, created it. The cake quickly became a local favorite. Before long, it was served at Texas social functions and church potlucks. 

Today, German chocolate cake is enjoyed all over the United States, but it remains especially popular in Texas. So next time you take a bite of this delicious dessert, be sure to thank Mrs. Clay for her contribution to Texas history!

Where to Try German Chocolate Cake:

Three Brothers Bakery

Location: Houston, TX

Link: https://3brothersbakery.com/product/german-chocolate-cake/

Summary

Texas is known for its huge portions, cowboy culture, and southern hospitality. And what goes better with southern hospitality than a delicious dessert? No matter what your taste buds are craving, you will find a Texas dessert you will love. So next time you are in Texas, make sure to try one (or all) of these delicious treats!

Embrace Independence Day with a Texas flair! Dive into our mouthwatering menu, featuring BBQ ribs, zesty jalapeno poppers, refreshing salads, and more. Prepare to fire up the grill and savor the authentic flavors of the Lone Star State. Take a look at these recipes and get ready to indulge!

Prepare for a cool and delightful treat! Celebrate National Ice Cream Month in Texas by visiting the best ice cream spots across the state. Enjoy a stylish and delicious experience that will satisfy your sweet cravings!

Pair dessert with BBQ treats in Dallas-Fort Worth. Here’s a list of the best!

 
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A Deeper Look into Texas Pecan Pie - One of America's Most Famous Desserts