Bringing a delightful cake to the table can instantly brighten any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving something sweet, these 20 family-favorite cake recipes offer a range of flavors and textures to suit every taste. From classic chocolate to vibrant fruit creations, each recipe promises a delicious treat that will gather everyone around for a slice.
1. Old-Fashioned Yellow Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Golden, buttery vanilla layers are paired with a smooth milk chocolate buttercream. It is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser perfect for birthdays and gatherings.
Get the Recipe2. Southern Red Velvet Cake
This cake features a mild cocoa flavor and a vibrant red crumb. It is traditionally finished with a white roux frosting or a cream cheese topping.
Get the Recipe3. Classic Chocolate Fudge Cake
Rich cocoa layers are stacked with a thick, creamy chocolate ganache frosting. This timeless dessert delivers deep flavor and a moist crumb in every slice.
Get the Recipe4. Spiced Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing
Freshly grated carrots and warm spices create a dense, textured sponge. A tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the cake.
Get the Recipe5. Zesty Lemon Drizzle Cake
A bright, citrus-infused loaf is soaked with a tart lemon syrup while warm. The result is an incredibly moist cake with a refreshing flavor profile.
Get the Recipe6. Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
This dense, buttery loaf is speckled with real vanilla bean seeds for aromatic flavor. It creates a sturdy slice that pairs well with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe7. Fluffy Coconut Cake
Light white cake layers are covered in a marshmallow-like frosting and coated in shredded coconut. It offers a sweet, tropical taste with a soft texture.
Get the Recipe8. Fresh Strawberry Layer Cake
Real strawberry puree gives this cake a natural pink hue and authentic berry flavor. It is often filled with fresh sliced strawberries and whipped cream.
Get the Recipe9. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Rings of pineapple and maraschino cherries caramelize in brown sugar at the bottom of the pan. When flipped, the fruit creates a stunning, sticky topping over the vanilla sponge.
Get the Recipe10. Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
A tender sour cream cake features a ribbon of cinnamon sugar running through the center. A crunchy streusel topping adds texture to this breakfast-inspired treat.
Get the Recipe11. Marble Bundt Cake
Vanilla and chocolate batters are swirled together before baking to create a beautiful two-tone design. The bundt shape makes it easy to slice and serve without heavy frosting.
Get the Recipe12. Hummingbird Cake
Ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and cinnamon come together in this moist Southern classic. Chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch to the batter.
Get the Recipe13. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Dark chocolate cake layers are filled and frosted with a savory-sweet peanut butter icing. Chopped peanut butter cups often garnish the top for extra indulgence.
Get the Recipe14. Banana Walnut Cake
Sweet, overripe bananas provide natural moisture and sweetness to this hearty cake. Toasted walnuts are folded into the batter for a nutty contrast.
Get the Recipe15. Light Angel Food Cake
This fat-free sponge relies on whipped egg whites for its airy, cloud-like texture. It is best served simply with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
Get the Recipe16. Confetti Birthday Cake
A tender white vanilla cake is speckled with colorful sprinkles baked right into the batter. It is typically covered in a fluffy vanilla buttercream and extra sprinkles.
Get the Recipe17. Spiced Apple Cake
Chunks of fresh apple and cinnamon are folded into a moist batter that captures the essence of fall. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a caramel glaze finishes the dish.
Get the Recipe18. Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
Juicy blueberries burst throughout this rustic, single-layer snacking cake. The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
Get the Recipe19. German Chocolate Cake
Mild chocolate layers are separated by a signature filling of cooked custard, shredded coconut, and pecans. This cake is known for its distinctively chewy and sweet topping.
Get the Recipe20. Classic Victoria Sponge
Two light vanilla sponge cakes are sandwiched together with a layer of raspberry jam and whipped cream. This simple yet elegant cake is a staple for afternoon tea.
Get the Recipe