Get ready to bake up a storm with the 10 best Southern cake recipes! You've got Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake for a fruity summer treat, and the Peach Praline Upside-Down Cake that's like a bite of sunshine. Don't forget the classic Hummingbird Cake, bursting with flavors that will make your mouth water. If you're feeling fancy, whip up the Southern Lane Cake or the super-chocolatey Decadent Fudge Cake. For something unique, try the 7UP Pound Cake. These cakes are sure to impress at any gathering! Stick around, because there's more tasty goodness to discover!
Main Points
- Southern cakes often feature fruit, like strawberries and peaches, enhancing flavor and moisture for summer gatherings.
- Classic Southern recipes like Lane Cake and Red Velvet Cake showcase rich flavors and layered presentations, perfect for celebrations.
- Chocolate cakes, such as Decadent Fudge Cake, offer intense flavors and customizable options to please chocolate lovers.
- Specialty cakes like 7UP Pound Cake combine unique ingredients for moist, flavorful results suitable for various occasions.
- Recipes emphasize simplicity and room temperature ingredients, making them accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake
Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake isn't only a delightful dessert but also a heartfelt reminder of family gatherings during the summer months. The moment you take the first bite, you're transported back to joyous occasions filled with laughter and love. This cake is a celebration of Southern baking, where the use of fresh strawberries and simple ingredients come together to create a moist, flavorful treat that appeals to everyone.
Whether it's a picnic, a birthday party, or just a sunny day, this cake is the perfect way to showcase the sweetness of summer.
To prepare this cake, you'll need fresh strawberries, which are the star of the show. Their juicy flavor infuses the cake layers and the frosting, making it a revitalizing dessert that pairs beautifully with the warm weather. Don't be surprised if this cake quickly becomes a family favorite, as it embodies the essence of comfort food that brings people together.
Follow this simple recipe, and you'll have a stunning cake that not only looks impressive but also tastes heavenly.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (for decoration)
- 1 cup whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is just combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of strawberry flavor, consider adding chopped fresh strawberries to the batter before baking. This will enhance the fruitiness and provide delightful little bites of strawberry throughout the cake.
If you want to make the cake ahead of time, you can bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the cake with frosting and fresh strawberries on top for that beautiful presentation.
Enjoy the process and the sweet memories that come with making Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake!
Peach Praline Upside-Down Cake
Peach Praline Upside-Down Cake Recipe
The Peach Praline Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its juicy peaches and rich caramel sauce. This cake isn't just about taste; it also brings a stunning visual appeal to any gathering. By using a cast-iron skillet, the cake achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust while the caramelization of the peaches creates a luscious topping that's hard to resist.
To enhance the flavor profile, this recipe incorporates Saigon cinnamon, which adds a warm and aromatic touch to the cake batter. The addition of toasted pecans introduces a delightful crunch and nutty richness, making each bite an indulgent experience. Perfect for summer celebrations, this cake is sure to be a showstopper and a favorite among guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Saigon cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring until the mixture is bubbly and well combined. Remove from heat and layer the peach slices over the caramel, followed by the toasted pecans.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla and buttermilk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter over the peaches and pecans in the skillet, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use ripe, juicy peaches, as they'll caramelize beautifully and provide a rich taste. If fresh peaches aren't available, you can substitute with canned peaches, but be sure to drain them well.
Additionally, if you want to add a twist, consider incorporating a splash of bourbon or rum into the caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Finally, serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate summer treat.
Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird Cake is a delightful Southern dessert that brings together the luscious flavors of overripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans, creating a moist and flavorful cake that's perfect for any occasion.
Originating from the Caribbean and first published in Southern Living Magazine in 1978, this cake has become a beloved classic known for its rich and tropical taste. The combination of spices like cinnamon adds a warm, comforting element that makes it reminiscent of other favorite desserts such as carrot cake and banana bread.
This cake is typically made with three layers, each filled with a velvety cream cheese frosting that improves its fruity profile. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Hummingbird Cake is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors. Serving it chilled from the refrigerator only heightens the experience, making it a revitalizing dessert for warm days.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
To prepare the Hummingbird Cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the vegetable oil, followed by the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
Slowly fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Once the cakes have cooled, spread frosting between layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
When making Hummingbird Cake, be sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. You can also customize the cake by adding shredded coconut or swapping out pecans for walnuts if desired.
To guarantee the cake stays fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting, and remember that it can last up to five days or be frozen for up to three months. Enjoy this delicious Southern treat at your next gathering!
Southern Lane Cake
Southern Lane Cake is a classic dessert that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality and tradition. With its multiple layers and decadent filling, this cake is often the centerpiece of celebrations, from weddings to holiday gatherings. The combination of bourbon-infused dried fruits and nuts creates a rich flavor profile that's both indulgent and comforting.
While it may seem intimidating to prepare, the reward of serving this stunning cake is well worth the effort. The process of making a Lane Cake requires patience and precision, as each layer must be baked separately and assembled with care. The cake is traditionally layered and frosted with a buttercream or a simple glaze, allowing the beautiful layers of the cake to shine through.
With its impressive appearance and delightful taste, Southern Lane Cake is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped pecans)
- ½ cup bourbon
- 1 cup butter for frosting
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- Additional decorations (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining the dried fruits, nuts, and bourbon in a bowl and letting them soak for at least 30 minutes. Once the cakes are completely cool, layer them with the bourbon-infused filling and frost the outside with buttercream.
Extra Tips:
When making Southern Lane Cake, make sure that your ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture. Additionally, consider letting the cake sit for a day before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
For an even more impressive presentation, decorate the cake with fresh fruits, edible flowers, or a drizzle of extra bourbon glaze. Remember, patience is key in assembling this cake, so take your time to create a stunning and delicious centerpiece that reflects your Southern heritage.
Decadent Fudge Cake
Decadent Fudge Cake
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this Decadent Fudge Cake, a dessert that's sure to impress at any gathering. Made with four different types of chocolate, this cake is a chocolate lover's dream, exuding an intensely rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The cake's dense texture adds to its luxurious appeal, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations ranging from birthdays to holiday feasts.
Not only is this cake delicious, but it also offers versatility in its preparation. You can customize it with chocolate ganache or flavored frostings to cater to different tastes. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightful contrast in texture and elevate the dessert experience.
Follow this simple recipe to create your very own Decadent Fudge Cake that will leave your guests in awe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: chocolate ganache or flavored frosting for topping
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, melt the dark, semi-sweet, and milk chocolate chips together until smooth. Gradually incorporate the melted chocolate into the butter and sugar mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before frosting or serving.
Extra Tips:
To improve the rich flavor of your Decadent Fudge Cake, consider using high-quality chocolate brands for the best results.
If you prefer a slightly different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha twist.
For a more festive touch, garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or fresh berries.
Blue-Ribbon Red Velvet Cake
The Blue-Ribbon Red Velvet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Southern dessert, known for its vibrant red color and rich chocolate flavor. Originating from the Alaska State Fair, this award-winning cake has become a staple at various celebrations, thanks to its appealing presentation and delicious taste.
The cake's unique recipe includes a higher amount of cocoa powder than traditional versions, which improves the chocolate flavor while still delivering that iconic ruby-red hue. This versatile cake can be customized with different shades of food coloring to match any occasion, making it perfect for birthdays, weddings, or holidays.
It pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting, which not only complements its moist texture but also adds a tangy richness that boosts the overall flavor profile. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating a stunning and scrumptious Blue-Ribbon Red Velvet Cake.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (or desired color)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until combined.
In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until just blended.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an even more striking presentation, consider layering the cake with cream cheese frosting between the layers and on the top and sides.
To achieve the perfect frosting consistency, make sure that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. You can also experiment with other food colorings to create unique variations of this classic cake.
Pineapple Carrot Cake
Pineapple Carrot Cake is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that brings a burst of freshness to any gathering. This moist cake, enriched with grated carrots and crushed pineapple, offers a unique depth of flavor that's both satisfying and light. The addition of cream cheese frosting enhances the cake to new levels, providing a rich and creamy contrast that perfectly complements the fruity base.
It's a fantastic dessert option, especially during the spring and summer months when the ingredients shine.
Making Pineapple Carrot Cake is a straightforward process that yields a fluffy and soft texture, making it perfect for snacking or serving at casual events. The cake is less sweet than many traditional desserts, thanks to the natural sweetness of the carrots and pineapple. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, further enhancing the overall experience.
Whether it's for brunch, dessert tables, or a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the eggs and vegetable oil, mixing well before adding the grated carrots and crushed pineapple. Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
If you want to make the cake ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the frosting can be prepared separately and added just before serving. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or even coconut flakes to add your personal touch to this delightful cake.
7UP Pound Cake
7UP Pound Cake is a delightful Southern dessert that combines the unique citrus flavors of lemon and lime with a rich, buttery texture. This cake stands out for its moistness and dense structure, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, whether it's a casual family dinner or a more formal celebration.
With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, the 7UP Pound Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a revitalizing twist on the classic pound cake.
Preparing this cake is a breeze, thanks to its straightforward recipe that requires minimal ingredients. Even novice bakers can achieve impressive results with just a few simple steps. The inclusion of 7UP not only adds a unique taste but also contributes to the cake's moistness, while a glossy signature glaze made from the soda brings it all together in a visually appealing way.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup 7UP soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan with butter or cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the 7UP and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding lemon or lime zest to the batter. This will improve the citrus notes and give your pound cake a more vibrant taste.
Be sure to check the cake for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as oven temperatures may vary.
If you wish to store the cake, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh, and consider refrigerating it to extend its shelf life.
Enjoy your 7UP Pound Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat!
Frosted Chocolate Cake
Frosted Chocolate Cake is a beloved dessert that has been passed down through generations, becoming a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. Its rich chocolate flavor combined with a moist, fluffy texture makes it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers of all ages.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity; with a few quality ingredients and careful attention to detail, you can create a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses your guests.
Preparing the Frosted Chocolate Cake can be a delightful experience, as the aroma of baking chocolate fills your kitchen. You can easily enhance the cake for special occasions by adding decorative elements such as colorful sprinkles or elegant chocolate shavings on top.
This versatile dessert can also be paired with ice cream or whipped cream, making it a delightful addition to any meal or celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- Chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until all dry ingredients are thoroughly blended.
Next, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and mix until smooth. Finally, carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, frost the cakes with chocolate frosting and decorate as desired.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, verify all ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and a more evenly baked cake.
When frosting, consider chilling the cakes for a bit before applying the frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting. Additionally, feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips to the batter or incorporating different flavor extracts to customize your cake further.
Enjoy your baking adventure!
Mississippi Mud Pie
Mississippi Mud Pie is a delightful dessert that brings the rich flavors of chocolate to life in a creamy and indulgent way. With its origins rooted in the Southern U.S., this pie has become a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations.
Its combination of a chocolate cookie crust, silky chocolate pudding filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping makes it a true crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress your guests.
This dessert isn't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Utilizing ready-made ingredients like boxed pudding and whipped topping allows for a quick assembly, making it a perfect choice for potlucks or casual get-togethers.
You can prepare this pie in advance and let it chill, allowing the flavors to meld together, enhancing its taste and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (15 oz) chocolate cookies (like Oreo)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (3.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
To make the Mississippi Mud Pie, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Crush the chocolate cookies in a food processor or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they resemble fine crumbs.
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies with the melted butter, mixing until well combined.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust.
Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth.
Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Pour the chocolate pudding into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Top with whipped topping, smoothing it out to cover the pudding entirely.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
For an elegant finish, garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped nuts before serving.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Mississippi Mud Pie, feel free to customize it to your taste!
You can add layers of crushed nuts or even a layer of peanut butter for added flavor.
If you want a richer chocolate experience, consider using dark chocolate pudding mix instead of the regular chocolate.
Additionally, for a more decadent topping, try folding in some chocolate syrup into the whipped topping before spreading it on the pie.
This dessert can also be frozen for longer storage, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.