Must-Try Tailgating Recipes

Sweet & Savory Tailgating Recipes for the Ultimate Game Day

As the college football season kicks off, fans across the country are gearing up for one of America's most beloved traditions: tailgating. Tailgating isn't just about food—it's about community, camaraderie, and celebrating a shared love of the game. The sight of parking lots filled with tents, grills, and team colors signals the beginning of an event that’s as much a part of football culture as the game itself. Tailgating brings people together, transforming a few hours before kickoff into an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of competition with the comfort of good food and great company.

Whether you're a seasoned tailgater or new to the tradition, finding the right mix of recipes to impress your fellow fans is key to a successful tailgate. This year, why not add a unique twist to your tailgate menu by incorporating products from Collin Street? Known for our delicious DeLuxe® Fruitcake and Texas Pecan Cakes, our bakery offers a range of products that can elevate your tailgating spread from typical to extraordinary. In this guide, we’ll share the best tailgating recipes featuring our very own products, ensuring your tailgate is the talk of the parking lot.

The History of Tailgating

The tradition of tailgating has a long, rich history. Some historians argue the origins of tailgating can be traced back to the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861. Civilians from the Union side, believing the battle to be nothing more than a brief skirmish, reportedly gathered near the battlefield with baskets of food and beverages to cheer on their troops. What they witnessed was not a single-sided sweep, but the first in countless Civil War battles. Despite the public's misperception, this marked the beginning of what would become a deeply rooted American tradition.

The advent of collegiate football tailgating was first adopted in the late 19th century with the first recorded instance occurring in 1869 during the Rutgers vs. Princeton football game. Widely regarded as the first college football game in history, fans arrived early in their horse-drawn carriages, bringing along food and drink to enjoy before the game—laying the groundwork for what would become a ritual for sports fans across the nation.

Tailgating has since evolved into a social phenomenon, deeply embedded in American sports culture. A communal event bringing fans together to celebrate their shared passion for their team, tailgating fosters a sense of belonging, allowing fans to connect with others who share their enthusiasm, whether they’re cheering for the same team or engaging in friendly rivalry.

Today, tailgating is a multi-billion-dollar industry. According to recent statistics compiled by the National Consumer Panel and reported on by Peter Mayer, 80% of Americans spend an average of $500 annually on tailgating and a generous yearly estimated $20 billion on tailgating food and beverages alone—a simultaneously staggering yet unsurprising projection. 

Food as a Tailgating Focal Point 

The concept of food being a social focal point is nothing new. Since the dawn of time, humans have eaten in groups, partially for protection and partially to share in the spoils of the hunt. However, the preparation and consumption of food in intimate parties serves a much deeper purpose than that of simply perpetuating our existence—it serves as a nucleus around which our communities are established. 

In an article published by the University of Oxford entitled, “Social Eating Connects Communities,” the university referenced data compiled from the UK’s annual get-together,The Big Lunch. The data suggested, “Communal eating increases social bonding and feelings of well-being, and enhances one’s sense of contentedness and embedding within the community. In brief, dining together simultaneously feeds our bodies and nourishes our souls.   

Therefore, the social significance of the food served during weekly tailgates cannot be overstated. For many, it’s not just about the game—it’s about using football as an opportunity to enjoy great food while growing closer to family, catching up with friends, and celebrating with fellow fans.

Tailgating Recipes & Snacks

In the early 18th century, French gastronome Brillat-Savarin wrote, “Tell me what you eat and I’ll tell you who you are.” In short, the foods we choose to serve, especially at traditional gatherings such as a tailgate, are a reflection of our identities, our roots, and what we hold dear. Each dish tells a story, whether it's a regional specialty that highlights where we come from, a family recipe passed down through generations, or a new creation that embodies our personal tastes—that’s why we’ve created these killer recipes inspired by our iconic products. By incorporating Collin Street Bakery cakes and snacks into your tailgating spread, you’ll not only pay homage to your traditions but also add a delicious and unique twist that will have everyone coming back for more.

Savory Tailgating Recipes

Designed to satisfy hungry fans and keep the energy high as you gear up for the big game, these hearty, flavorful recipes offer the perfect balance of taste and convenience. Whether you're feeding a small group or a large crowd, these dishes are guaranteed to be a hit, adding delicious variety to your tailgate spread.

Fruitcake Sliders

Tailgating sliders are a classic, but why not add a flavorful twist? Collin Street Bakery’s DeLuxe® Fruitcake isn’t just for the holidays—its rich, nutty, and fruity flavors can elevate your savory dishes, too. These Fruitcake Sliders are sure to become a tailgate favorite.

INGREDIENTS
1 loaf of Collin Street Bakery DeLuxe® Fruitcake, sliced thinly
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
12 slider buns
6 slices of cheddar cheese, halved
Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for garnish

STEP 1: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into 12 small patties.

STEP 2 : Preheat a grill to medium heat (between 350 & 400 degrees). Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they reach an internal temperature of 155 degrees. Toast the slider buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes.

STEP 3: Assemble the sliders by placing a slice of fruitcake on the bottom half of each bun, followed by the patty, a slice of cheddar cheese, and garnishes. Top with the other half of the bun and serve warm.

Pecan Cake Cheese Balls

Cheese balls are a must-have at any tailgate, but you can make yours stand out by incorporating your favorite Texas Pecan Cake flavor. The nutty sweetness of the pecan cake pairs beautifully with creamy cheese, creating an appetizer that’s both indulgent and memorable.

INGREDIENTS
1 Texas Pecan Cake from Collin Street Bakery
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp chives, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Crackers or sliced vegetables for serving

STEP 1: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until smooth. Form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.

STEP 2: Quarter your Texas Pecan Cake. Place half of the Texas Pecan Cake in a food processor and pulse until a medium crumb has formed. Dump the mixture onto a large baking sheet. 

STEP 3: Roll each cheese ball in the pecan cake crumbles until fully coated. Chill the cheese balls for at least 1 hour before serving alongside crackers or vegetables.

Sweet Treats for Tailgating

No tailgate is complete without a selection of sweet treats to round out the menu. These indulgent options provide the perfect balance to savory dishes, offering a touch of sweetness that fans of all ages can enjoy. 

Fruitcake Almond Butter Bites

For those who need a quick boost of energy during an intense game, these Fruitcake Almond Butter Bites are the perfect solution. Packed with Collin Street Bakery’s DeLuxe® Fruitcake, oats, and nuts, these bites are nutritious, delicious, and easy to pop into your mouth as you cheer on your team.

INGREDIENTS
1 cup Collin Street Bakery DeLuxe® Fruitcake, finely chopped
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

STEP 1: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until thoroughly combined. Form the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).

STEP 2: Place the almond butter bites on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Store the bites in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Pecan Cake Brownies

Blondies are a fantastic treat for any tailgate, and when you incorporate chunks of Collin Street Bakery’s Texas Pecan Cake, they become downright irresistible. These blondies are moist, chewy, and loaded with pecans, making them a crowd-pleaser.

INGREDIENTS
1 Texas Pecan Cake from Collin Street Bakery, cut into small chunks
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

STEP 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

STEP 2: Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the Texas Pecan Cake chunks.

STEP 3: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the blondies to cool before cutting them into squares and serving.

Drinks & Beverages

Tailgating cocktails and drinks are all about balancing flavor with fun, providing fans with the perfect complement to the day's food and excitement. Remember, a well-crafted drink can elevate any tailgating experience, adding a refreshing and spirited touch to the festivities. Whether you're mixing up classic cocktails or serving drinks with a creative twist, having the right beverages on hand is key to keeping the energy high and the spirits lifted.

Fruitcake Old Fashioned

For a sophisticated tailgating drink, try a Fruitcake Old Fashioned. This cocktail infuses the rich flavors of Collin Street Bakery’s DeLuxe® Fruitcake into a classic Old Fashioned, creating a drink that’s both nostalgic and refreshing.

INGREDIENTS
2 oz bourbon
1 sugar cube
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
1 small slice of Collin Street Bakery DeLuxe® Fruitcake
Orange peel for garnish
Ice

STEP 1: Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and add the bitters. Muddle the sugar cube until it is dissolved.

STEP 2: Add the bourbon and stir to combine. Fill the glass with ice and stir until the drink is well chilled.

STEP 3: Garnish with a small slice of fruitcake and an orange peel twist. Serve immediately.

Picolos™ Pickle Beer 

For a tangy, refreshing drink that combines the crispness of a light beer with the briny goodness of pickles, try a Pickle Beer. Using Collin Street Bakery's Picolos™ Pickle Trio, this recipe adds a unique twist to a popular drink, perfect for tailgating.

INGREDIENTS
1-12oz bottle or can of light lager or pilsner beer
2-3 tablespoons of pickle juice from Collin Street Bakery's Picolos™ Pickle Trio
Pickles slices, green olives, & lime wedges (for garnish)
Ice (optional)
Salt or Tajin for rimming the glass (optional)

STEP 1: If desired, salt the rim of a glass. Using a lime or pickle juice, wet the lip of a glass before dipping the rim into a plate of coarse salt or Tajin for a little kick. 

STEP 2: Add to the bottom of the cup 2-3 tablespoons juice from your favorite jar of pickles. For traditional pickle flavor, we recommend Picolos™ Bread & Butter. For a spicier kick, we recommend Picolos™ Jalapeno or Picolo Reds. Add one 16oz can of your light or pilsner favorite beer. If needed, add ice. 

STEP 3: Add a couple of pickle or jalapeno slices, green olives, or a lime wedge into the glass as garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy! 

Tips for a Successful Tailgate

Tailgating is an art form that combines good food, great company, and a shared passion for the game. Whether you're a veteran tailgater or a newcomer to the scene, a little planning and preparation can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience. From organizing your menu to setting up your tailgate spot, here are some essential tips to ensure your tailgating party is a touchdown every time.

1. Plan Ahead.Make a checklist of all the items you’ll need, including food, drinks, utensils, and games. Prepare as much food as possible the day or days before to minimize on-site cooking.
2. Keep It Simple. Choose recipes that are easy to prepare, serve, and clear. Finger foods and dishes that don’t require utensils are always big hits.
3. Incorporate Local Flavors. Tailgating is best when the flavors of your food are representative of your team’s hometown. Find local favorites, like Collin Street Bakery’s selection of cakes and sides to add a touch of nostalgia to your tailgate.
4. Stay Organized. Use labeled containers and coolers to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Set up your grill, tables, and chairs in a way that allows for easy flow and socializing.
5. Have Fun! Tailgating is all about enjoying the moment with friends and family. Don’t stress over the details—focus on having a great time and supporting your team.

 Get Your Tailgating Essentials Today!

Tailgating is more than just a pre-game ritual—it’s an opportunity to connect with friends, celebrate your team, and enjoy some incredible food. By incorporating Collin Street Bakery favorites into your tailgating recipes, you’ll not only elevate your menu but also bring a touch of Texas hospitality to your tailgate. Whether you’re grilling up Fruitcake Sliders, snacking on Fruitcake Cheese Balls, or sipping on a Fruitcake Old Fashioned, these recipes are sure to make your tailgate the talk of the parking lot.

Stock up on tailgating essentials by shopping Collin Street Bakery's selection of savory and sweet specials, and get ready to cheer on your team with a tailgate spread that’s as memorable as the game itself.

Shop All Tailgating Treats