When it comes to desserts, nothing quite captures the heart of Southern living like a beautifully crafted cake. Whether you’re reminiscing about family gatherings or excited to create your own sweet memories, these classic Southern cakes have a way of bringing people together. I put this post together to celebrate that cherished tradition and to inspire you to bake something truly special.
If you love Southern desserts or have a soft spot for classic cake recipes, you’re in for a treat. This collection is perfect for anyone who appreciates the art of Southern baking and the elegance it brings to any occasion. From birthdays to holidays, or even just a Sunday afternoon at home, these cakes are sure to impress.
What can you expect? I’ve gathered 12 Southern Living cake recipes that are not only delicious but also embody the charm of elegant Southern style treats. You’ll find everything from the rich flavor of a classic Red Velvet Cake to the refreshing zest of a Lemon Layer Cake. Each recipe is crafted to help you create homemade cakes that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
So, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, let’s dive into these delightful recipes that promise to add sweetness to your life and a dash of Southern hospitality to your kitchen. Let’s get started on this delicious journey together!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 Southern Living cake recipes that embody classic Southern flavors, perfect for any occasion.
– Enjoy the timeless appeal of cakes like Hummingbird Cake and Chocolate Layer Cake, each with simple, easy-to-follow instructions.
– Learn to create elegant desserts at home that impress guests and bring joy to family gatherings.
– Find inspiration for seasonal celebrations and everyday treats that highlight the best of Southern baking traditions.
– Dive into unique flavors like Coconut Cream and Berry Chantilly that elevate your dessert game to a new level.
1. Classic Red Velvet Cake
Want a cake that turns heads at any gathering? The Classic Red Velvet Cake does just that. Its bold red crumb sits under a cloud of cream cheese frosting. A whisper of cocoa deepens the flavor without overpowering the sweetness. You get a moist, tender bite that feels special in every slice. This guide shows you a straightforward path to bake, stack, and frost with confidence.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, cocoa, and vanilla.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then add baking soda and vinegar. Mix well.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.
7. Assemble the layers with frosting in between, and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute the food coloring? Yes, beet juice is a natural alternative, though it may alter the hue slightly.
– How should I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. Lemon Layer Cake
Bright and sunny, this Lemon Layer Cake lifts any table. You taste fresh lemon in every layer, with a light lemon buttercream that feels fluffy. The cake shines at spring and summer gatherings. It pairs well with sweet tea or coffee. This guide gives you a simple path to bake, frost, and layer with a touch of zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
5. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture.
6. Pour batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
7. Once cooled, beat the butter, sugar, lemon juice, and zest together for frosting.
8. Frost the cooled layers and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
– What can I serve with this cake? Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream are great accompaniments.
Fun Fact: As part of Southern Living cake recipes, a lemon layer cake can be baked, cooled, and frosted in under 2 hours, with just 6 pantry-friendly ingredients. The zest alone boosts brightness by visibly lifting flavors—perfect for spring gatherings with sweet tea in hand.
3. Coconut Cream Cake
Escape to a tropical mood with Coconut Cream Cake. The moist coconut layers and creamy frosting melt on the tongue. Toasted coconut on top adds crunch and aroma. It’s perfect for celebrations or a gentle dessert after a family meal. You will see clear steps to bake, fill, and finish with a glossy coconut sheen.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round pans.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in buttermilk and shredded coconut.
5. Combine the dry ingredients, then gradually add to the wet mixture until smooth.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes.
7. For the frosting, beat butter, sugar, and cream until fluffy, then add shredded coconut.
8. Frost between layers and all over the cake, topping with toasted coconut.
FAQs:
– How should I store this cake? Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
– Can I use coconut extract? Yes, adding a teaspoon can boost the coconut flavor.
4. Hummingbird Cake
Picture a warm Southern afternoon with Hummingbird Cake. Bananas and pineapple bring sweetness, while pecans add crunch. The result is moist, fragrant, and comforting. Cream cheese frosting ties all the flavors together. This section shows you how to mix, bake, and frost with care.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup mashed bananas
– 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix oil, sugar, eggs, bananas, pineapples, and vanilla until combined.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
5. Fold in the pecans.
6. Pour the batter into the pans and bake for about 40 minutes.
7. For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla.
8. Frost the cooled layers and garnish with extra pecans if desired.
FAQs:
– What’s the best way to store this cake? Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well!
– Can I leave out the nuts? Absolutely, just replace them with more fruit if desired.
5. Pound Cake
Pound Cake stays a steady favorite in the South. It carries a rich flavor and a dense, yet tender crumb. This cake works plain, with fruit, or with a dollop of whipped cream. It is wonderfully adaptable; try lemon, almond, or even chocolate for a twist. You’ll learn a simple, reliable method to bake, cool, and serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch loaf pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let it cool before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze pound cake? Yes, wrap it tightly before freezing for up to three months.
– What should I serve it with? Fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream make it special!
Fun fact: classic pound cake earned its name from 1 lb each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, yet today it stays shockingly versatile. In southern living cake recipes, a lemon twist or chocolate swirl keeps it timeless.
6. Chocolate Layer Cake
Who can resist a rich and decadent Chocolate Layer Cake? This Southern classic fits birthdays and celebrations, with multiple chocolate layers and a lush ganache. Each bite stays moist and deeply chocolatey. It looks elegant with shavings or berries on top. This guide walks you through baking, filling, and finishing with a glossy finish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– For the Ganache:
– 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, then stir in boiling water until smooth.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pans and bake for about 30-35 minutes.
6. For the ganache, heat the cream until it’s just boiling, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let sit before stirring until smooth.
7. Once the cakes are cool, frost with the ganache and decorate as desired.
FAQs:
– Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
7. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry Shortcake captures the bright joy of Southern summers. Juicy berries meet soft, buttery biscuits and a cloud of whipped cream. The result is light, sweet, and perfect for family gatherings. It feels special but is easy to pull off. You’ll learn to bake quick biscuits, macerate berries, and build the layers with care.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
– 1/2 cup milk
– 4 cups strawberries, sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar (for strawberries)
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the milk until just combined and form a dough.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, pat into a circle about 1-inch thick, and cut into rounds.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and let sit.
8. For the whipped cream, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
9. To assemble, slice the biscuits in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, then top with the other half and more strawberries.
FAQs:
– Can I make the biscuits ahead of time? Yes, they can be made a few hours ahead and stored in an airtight container.
– How should I serve this dessert? Best served immediately after assembly, but leftovers can be refrigerated for a day.
8. Carrot Cake
Carrot Cake brings warmth with spice and moisture. Grated carrots, nuts, and pineapple add texture. A tangy cream cheese frosting tops it all. It shines at Easter and family feasts. It feels like a hug in cake form. This section shows a clear path to mix, bake, and frost.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix oil, eggs, grated carrots, and pineapple.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in walnuts.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pans and bake for 40 minutes.
6. For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla.
7. Frost the cooled cake layers and garnish with extra walnuts.
FAQs:
– How do I store Carrot Cake? Keep it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
– Can I add raisins or other fruits? Yes, they add sweetness if you like.
9. Berry Chantilly Cake
Berry Chantilly Cake blends elegance with creamy delight. Vanilla cake sheets cradle layers of fresh berries and light whipped cream. It feels fancy yet easy to pull off, making it a favorite for celebrations. The finish is bright and inviting, a real showstopper on any table. Here you learn to bake, whip, and assemble with care.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in the milk and vanilla, then mix flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes.
7. For the frosting, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar until smooth.
8. To assemble, layer cake with frosting and berries, topping the final layer with more berries and mint leaves.
FAQs:
– How do I store this cake? In the fridge, it’s best served fresh within 2 days.
– Can I use frozen berries? Yes, but fresh is preferable for the best texture.
10. Peanut Butter Cake
Peanut Butter Cake brings a nutty twist to Southern comfort. The rich peanut flavor pairs with a creamy chocolate frosting for a crowd-pleasing finish. It’s easy to love and easy to bake. This guide walks you through making a sturdy, moist cake and a glossy finish that shines.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups sugar
– 3/4 cup peanut butter
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the milk until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then add to the wet mixture until combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes.
7. For the frosting, mix cocoa powder, butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
8. Frost the cooled layers with rich chocolate frosting.
FAQs:
– Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, it freezes well for up to a month.
– How should I serve it? Perfect with a glass of cold milk or coffee.
11. Vanilla Bean Cake
Vanilla Bean Cake shows the pure joy of simple sweetness. Real vanilla seeds give a fragrant crumb that feels velvety and light. It fits any event and pairs beautifully with fruit compotes or a splash of whipped cream. This classic base invites creative twists or shines on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 vanilla bean (seeds scraped)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and scraped vanilla bean seeds.
5. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt before adding to the wet mixture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use vanilla extract instead of beans? Yes, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
– How should I store this cake? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
12. Maple Pecan Cake
Maple Pecan Cake blends autumn warmth with nutty crunch. Layers glow with maple syrup, while chopped pecans add texture. A luscious maple frosting seals the deal and makes this a perfect dessert for cool days or holiday gatherings. It invites friends to share stories around the table. Here you learn the method to bake, fill, and decorate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in milk and maple syrup, mixing well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then fold in pecans.
6. Pour batter into the pans and bake for about 35 minutes.
7. For the frosting, beat butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
8. Frost layers and top with additional pecans for garnish.
FAQs:
– Can I use different nuts? Walnuts or almonds could work beautifully.
– How should I store this cake? Keep it in an airtight container, and it’ll last for up to a week.
Fun fact: a Maple Pecan Cake can taste like a fall festival in every bite, with just 2 cups flour, 1 cup pecans, and a maple glaze. In southern living cake recipes, that simple combo makes gatherings feel warmer and more together.
Conclusion
These twelve Southern living cake recipes offer a heartfelt taste of tradition and flavor that embodies Southern hospitality.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge, these elegant desserts will surely impress your guests and bring joy to your home. As you create these delicious treats, you’ll not only be following a recipe but also weaving together a tapestry of memories and love that only homemade cakes can provide. Happy baking!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which recipes are included in the 12 Southern Living Cake Recipes for Elegant Southern Style Treats, and why are they great for entertaining?
This collection of southern living cake recipes blends classic cake recipes with an elegant twist, perfect for entertaining. Expect timeless flavors and crowd-pleasing textures that showcase southern baking at its best while still feeling homemade. Each cake is designed for easy assembly, with simple frostings and polished finishes that look refined on a dessert table. To get started, pick a crowd-pleasing option like a vanilla or chocolate layer cake, finish with a silky buttercream, and add a garnish such as fresh berries or citrus zest for an elegant touch.
What practical, beginner-friendly steps help me successfully bake these Southern desserts at home?
Here’s a practical path for beginners: start by reading the recipe in full, bring ingredients to room temperature, and prepare pans with parchment. Measure carefully, bake until a toothpick comes out clean, and let layers cool completely before stacking. Frost with a simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting for homemade cakes that stay moist and slice neatly. Chill briefly to set the frosting, then plate and serve for an effortlessly polished result.
Can I adapt these southern living cake recipes for gluten-free or dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor?
Absolutely. You can preserve flavor by using a trusted gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and a dairy-free butter substitute with plant-based milk. For eggs, consider flax eggs or applesauce as needed. Boost flavor with extra vanilla, citrus zest, or spices to compensate for texture changes, and use a dairy-free frosting option like a creamy coconut or almond milk buttercream. With thoughtful substitutions, these classic cake recipes stay delicious and satisfying while staying true to southern baking roots.
What are the best tips for storing and serving these classic cakes to keep them fresh for a party?
To keep cakes fresh: wrap unfrosted layers tightly and freeze for longer storage; once assembled, refrigerate if the frosting contains dairy, and let the cake come to room temperature before serving. For shorter storage, keep in an airtight container at cool room temperature away from direct sun. If you’re freezing, wrap slices or whole cakes well to preserve moisture. These steps help you serve elegant desserts that still feel homemade.
What essential tools and pantry staples do I need to recreate these Southern Living cake recipes at home?
Stock up on essential equipment: 9-inch cake pans, parchment paper, a mixer, bowls, a spatula, a cooling rack, and a cake stand for beautiful presentation. Pantry staples include all-purpose or cake flour, granulated sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, milk or buttermilk, cocoa powder, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and salt. With these basics, you’re ready to dive into southern living cake recipes and create memorable elegant desserts right at home.
Related Topics
southern living
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