Welcome to our sweet and indulgent journey through the best southern cake recipes! If you're a fan of moist and decadent cakes with a touch of southern charm, you've come to the right place.
From classic favorites to unique twists, the South is known for its irresistible cakes that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So, grab your apron and get ready to discover the most mouthwatering cakes that will transport you to the heart of the South. Let's dive in!
1. Old Southern Yum Yum Cake
The Old Southern Yum Yum Cake is a classic Southern dessert that has been passed down for generations. This homemade cake combines flour, eggs, pecans, pineapple, and coconut to create a moist and flavorful dessert with a crackly crust on top.
The gooey and delicious combination of butter, pineapple, pecans, and coconut adds a wonderful texture to this cake. It's the perfect amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. This traditional Southern cake is a hit at family gatherings and will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
2. Southern Pound Cake
Southern Pound Cake is a classic and irresistible dessert that will impress your family and friends. This rich and buttery cake has a soft interior and a thick, crumbly top.
Made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, eggs, and flour, this cake is easy to make and turns out perfect every time. It's a must-have for holidays and family celebrations.
3. Yum Yum Cake
Yum Yum Cake is a classic southern dessert that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. This easy-to-make cake is light and fluffy, thanks to the self-rising flour and baking soda.
The addition of crushed pineapple adds a sweet and tangy flavor, while the homemade icing, with its creamy texture and the delightful combination of coconut and pecans, takes this cake to the next level. Trust me, this original recipe is a family favorite that won't disappoint.
4. Southern Layered Jam Cake
The Southern Layered Jam Cake is a decadent and rich celebration cake that combines the flavors of blackberry jam and warm spices. This old-fashioned recipe has a unique twist, as the jam is actually incorporated into the cake itself.
The cake is not overly sweet, but it is complemented by a luscious caramel frosting. With the option to use different flavors of jam and nuts, this cake offers versatility and a taste of Southern tradition.
5. Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird Cake is a moist and sweet Southern cake that is a must-try for any cake lover. It is similar to banana bread with frosting, but even better. The recipe includes ripe chopped bananas, crushed pineapple, and optional pecans and coconut for added texture.
The highlight of this cake is the Browned Butter Cream Cheese Icing, which adds a rich and caramelized flavor. Overall, Hummingbird Cake is a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion.
6. Southern Hummingbird Cake
Southern Hummingbird Cake is a classic and beloved Southern dessert. It is a moist and flavorful cake made with ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and a hint of cinnamon.
The cake is topped with a creamy and sweet homemade cream cheese frosting. This cake is perfect for special occasions or any time you want to indulge in a delicious and comforting dessert.
7. Kentucky Blackberry Jam Cake
The Kentucky Blackberry Jam Cake is a classic southern dessert that is perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. This moist and flavorful cake is made with blackberry jam, chopped walnuts, and a blend of spices that give it a deliciously tangy and sweet taste. It is topped with a rich caramel icing that adds the perfect finishing touch.
If you love spice cake and caramel icing, this cake is a must-try. Its origins can be traced back to German settlers in the southern region, making it a beloved traditional recipe. Whether you make it as a three-layer cake or simplify it to a two-layer version, this Kentucky Blackberry Jam Cake is sure to impress.
8. Kentucky Butter Cake
Kentucky Butter Cake is a classic southern dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This homemade butter cake is incredibly moist and is topped with a decadent buttered rum sauce.
The addition of buttermilk gives the cake its moist texture, making it a standout among other cake recipes. Perfect for any occasion, this old-fashioned cake is a true southern delight.
9. Real Deal Southern Caramel Cake
Real Deal Southern Caramel Cake is the ultimate indulgence for caramel lovers. This classic southern recipe features a moist and slightly dense yellow butter cake that perfectly complements the luscious caramel icing.
Unlike shortcuts, this recipe uses granulated sugar and evaporated milk to create a true caramel icing. With its rich flavor and smooth consistency, this cake is a true star. If you're looking for an authentic and decadent southern dessert, Real Deal Southern Caramel Cake is a must-try.
10. Caramel Cake
The Southern Caramel Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions. The vanilla layer cake is light and fluffy, and it is frosted with a buttery caramel icing. This old-fashioned show-stopper is sure to wow your guests at any festive gathering.
The homemade caramel icing has a firm texture that hardens as it cools, making it a unique and delicious addition to the cake. Overall, the Caramel Cake is a classic Southern dessert that is worth the time and effort to make from scratch.
11. Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a classic, vintage recipe that combines the flavors of a cookie and cake. They are not overly sweet, making them the perfect dessert or snack. These tea cakes have a soft and tender center with a hint of crispiness on the outside.
The simple ingredients of butter, sugar, and vanilla create a delicious flavor profile. You can also add variations such as lemon zest or cinnamon for extra taste. Overall, Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories and honors Southern heritage.
12. Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is a delightful doctored cake mix cake that captures the essence of Southern flavors. With crushed pineapple, cool whip, coconut, and pecans, this cake is a tropical delight.
The addition of warm pineapple juice adds a burst of sweetness to the moist cake. The toppings of shredded coconut and pecans provide a beautiful and delicious finishing touch. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion, this cake is sure to impress.
13. Georgia Cornbread Cake
Georgia Cornbread Cake is a quirky, old-fashioned cake that is more like a pecan cake or pecan coffee cake. Despite its misleading name, it doesn't contain any cornmeal. The cake is simple to make and absolutely delicious.
It is perfect for an after-school snack, pairs well with coffee or tea, and is a great dessert for potlucks or the beach. Serve it plain or with ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream. Your family will love its simplicity and taste.
14. Preacher Cake
Preacher Cake is a beloved southern classic that combines the convenience of a boxed cake mix with the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and pecans. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for gatherings and brings a comforting, homemade taste to any occasion.
The moist spice cake is complemented by a melt-in-your-mouth coconut frosting, making it a delightful treat for all. Whether serving it to the preacher or to guests, Preacher Cake is sure to please with its nostalgic flavors and simple preparation.
15. German Chocolate-Red Velvet Cake
The German Chocolate-Red Velvet Cake is a delightful combination of two classic southern cakes. The red velvet cake base is moist and flavorful, with a hint of cocoa powder.
The star of the show is the rich German chocolate frosting, loaded with coconut and pecans. Together, they create a unique and delicious dessert that is sure to please any cake lover.
16. Pig Pickin' Cake
Pig Pickin' Cake is a classic Southern dessert that is perfect for picnics and BBQs. This moist cake has a bright orange flavor and is topped with a fluffy pineapple frosting.
It's easy to make with a box cake mix and can be decorated with additional fruit for a festive touch. A must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious Southern treat.
17. Pineapple Pound Cake
The Southern Pineapple Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of traditional pound cake with a tropical twist.
The cream cheese glaze adds a rich and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the moist and flavorful pineapple-infused cake. This recipe is a true gem for pound cake enthusiasts and a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of pineapple and cream cheese.
18. Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake
The Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. It features layers of moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, crushed pineapple, frozen strawberries, sliced bananas, and a generous dollop of cool whip.
Topped with chopped pecans for a crunchy texture, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of Southern flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it's a must-try recipe that will leave you craving for more.
19. Old Fashioned Southern Burned Caramel Cake
Old Fashioned Southern Burned Caramel Cake is a delicious homemade yellow cake with a cooked caramel frosting made on the stovetop. The cake is moist and flavorful, while the caramel frosting adds a rich and sweet touch.
The recipe requires some patience and skill to make the caramel frosting, but the end result is worth it. The frosting needs to chill overnight in the refrigerator before being beaten until smooth and slightly thickened. This cake is perfect for special occasions or holiday celebrations.
