27 Classic Southern Cakes You’ll Bake Again and Again

Southern cakes are legendary — rich, moist, and steeped in tradition. From caramel layer cakes to hummingbird cake and everything in between, these recipes capture the flavors that have graced family reunions, church suppers, and Sunday dinners for generations. These cakes are the ones you’ll never tire of baking.

Old-Fashioned Southern Caramel Cake with Pecans

Old-Fashioned Southern Caramel Cake with Pecans
Old-Fashioned Southern Caramel Cake with Pecans. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This indulgent Southern classic features moist cake layers embraced by rich, homemade caramel frosting. Every sweet, nostalgic bite transports you to celebration tables across the South. A decadent treat that deserves a spot at your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Southern Caramel Cake with Pecans

Lane Cake

Lane Cake
Lane Cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Discover the rich tradition of Lane Cake, Alabama’s cherished Southern treasure. This layered delight features moist vanilla cake with a decadent bourbon-laced filling of fruits and nuts. Our easy scratch recipe brings this celebrated dessert to your table with simple, foolproof steps.
Get the Recipe: Lane Cake

Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird Cake. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Indulge in this decadent Hummingbird cake bursting with rich, juicy fruits and topped with velvety cream cheese frosting. Every moist, flavorful bite delivers pure Southern comfort that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hummingbird Cake

Texas Sheet Cake with Chocolate Pecan Frosting

Texas Sheet Cake with Chocolate Pecan Frosting
Texas Sheet Cake with Chocolate Pecan Frosting. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in our decadent chocolate sheet cake that’s wonderfully moist with a velvety chocolate pecan buttercream. This crowd-pleasing dessert delivers rich flavor in every bite, making it the perfect showstopper for your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Texas Sheet Cake with Chocolate Pecan Frosting

Chocolate Delight Recipe – Four Layer No-Bake Dessert

Chocolate Delight Recipe – Four Layer No-Bake Dessert
Chocolate Delight Recipe – Four Layer No-Bake Dessert. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This irresistible layered delight combines a buttery pecan crust with velvety cream cheese, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream for a no-bake sensation. It’s guaranteed to disappear quickly at your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Delight Recipe – Four Layer No-Bake Dessert

Cracker Barrel Carrot Cake

Cracker Barrel Carrot Cake
Cracker Barrel Carrot Cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in our homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s beloved carrot cake. Every bite delivers moist, spiced perfection with sweet pineapple, coconut flakes, and crunchy nuts. This nostalgic treat brings restaurant-quality right to your kitchen without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Carrot Cake

Jam Cake

Jam Cake
Jam Cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in this nostalgic Old Fashioned Jam Cake featuring warm spices, plump raisins, and crunchy nuts, all crowned with a velvety brown sugar frosting. A timeless dessert that combines comfort and elegance for your special gatherings or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Jam Cake

Red Velvet Layer Cake with White Chocolate Frosting

Red Velvet Layer Cake with White Chocolate Frosting
Red Velvet Layer Cake with White Chocolate Frosting. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This classic Southern delight features a velvety, moist texture with subtle cocoa notes and that iconic crimson color. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect showstopping dessert for any celebration or special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Layer Cake with White Chocolate Frosting

Banana Split Cake – Easy No Bake Recipe

Banana Split Cake – Easy No Bake Recipe
Banana Split Cake – Easy No-Bake Recipe. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in a luscious layered delight that captures all your favorite banana split flavors in one dish. The buttery graham crust supports creamy cheese filling, fresh seasonal fruits, and fluffy Cool Whip for a refreshing summer dessert everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Banana Split Cake – Easy No Bake Recipe

Cracker Barrel Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake

Cracker Barrel Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake
Cracker Barrel Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in this decadent treat where Coca-Cola meets rich double chocolate! Moist, fudgy layers topped with silky frosting make this Cracker Barrel copycat utterly irresistible. One bite of this Southern classic will transport you to comfort food heaven.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake

Old-fashioned cream cheese pound cake

Old-fashioned cream cheese pound cake
Old-fashioned cream cheese pound cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of cream cheese pound cake made the old-fashioned way. This timeless dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tangy flavor with a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion!
Get the Recipe: Old-fashioned cream cheese pound cake

Easy German Chocolate Cake from a Cake Mix

Easy German Chocolate Cake from a Cake Mix
Easy German Chocolate Cake from a Cake Mix. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Indulge in this easy German Chocolate Cake, which combines convenience with homemade goodness. Start with a simple boxed mix, then top your creation with a decadent, homemade coconut pecan frosting. It’s the perfect shortcut to bakery-quality results!
Get the Recipe: Easy German Chocolate Cake from a Cake Mix

Moist Coconut Layer Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist Coconut Layer Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist Coconut Layer Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Indulge in this airy coconut layer cake, a Southern classic with creamy frosting in every bite. The tropical flavors make it a showstopping dessert for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you crave something special. Your guests will be begging for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Moist Coconut Layer Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Incredibly Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Incredibly Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Incredibly Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This moist, flavorful banana cake topped with velvety cream cheese frosting transforms overripe bananas into a spectacular treat. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, it’s an effortless recipe that delivers bakery-worthy results every time.
Get the Recipe: Incredibly Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Iced Lemon Pound Cake

Iced Lemon Pound Cake
Iced Lemon Pound Cake. Photo credit: Feast and West.

Indulge in this irresistibly moist iced lemon pound cake that bursts with bright citrus flavor in every bite. The perfect balance of tangy and sweet, this bakery-quality loaf will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Iced Lemon Pound Cake

No Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert

No Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert
No Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Escape to the tropics with this heavenly coconut pineapple lush cake. Every forkful delivers creamy coconut and sweet pineapple in perfect harmony. This dreamy pina colada-inspired dessert will transport you to paradise with each delicious bite.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert

Moist Butter Pecan Pound Cake With Glaze

Moist Butter Pecan Pound Cake With Glaze
Moist Butter Pecan Pound Cake With Glaze. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Savor the Southern charm of this buttery pecan pound cake with its tender crumb and crunchy nut pieces in every slice. Rich and indulgent, it’s the perfect showstopping dessert to share with loved ones or wrap up as a heartfelt homemade gift.
Get the Recipe: Moist Butter Pecan Pound Cake With Glaze

Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix

Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This fuss-free pineapple upside-down cake transforms simple boxed mix into a buttery delight with caramelized fruit that looks impressive but requires minimal effort. Perfect for gatherings when you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes homemade.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix

Moist Pumpkin Spice Cake From Cake Mix (With Cream Cheese Frosting)

Moist Pumpkin Spice Cake From Cake Mix (With Cream Cheese Frosting)
Moist Pumpkin Spice Cake From Cake Mix (With Cream Cheese Frosting). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

When autumn arrives, this quick pumpkin spice cake becomes my go-to comfort recipe. Made from cake mix, it fills the home with irresistible fall aromas and creates the perfect shareable treat for cozy gatherings. Simple yet utterly delicious!
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Spice Cake From Cake Mix (With Cream Cheese Frosting)

Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake

Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake
Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Indulge guilt-free with our healthier cinnamon apple cake that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The perfect balance of warm spices and sweet apples creates a moist, delicious treat that’s ideal for breakfast or dessert. Your family will never guess it’s the lighter version!
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake

Moist Peach Upside Down Cake Made from Scratch

Moist Peach Upside Down Cake Made from Scratch
Moist Peach Upside Down Cake Made from Scratch. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This stunning Southern classic combines juicy caramelized peaches with buttery cake for a nostalgic treat that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. Each slice delivers golden sweetness perfect for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Moist Peach Upside Down Cake Made from Scratch

Mississippi Mud Cake

Mississippi Mud Cake
Mississippi Mud Cake. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Experience pure Southern indulgence with each bite of this rich chocolate cake. Layers of fudgy goodness are crowned with pillowy marshmallow creme and silky chocolate frosting for a decadent dessert that satisfies every sweet craving.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Cake

Sock It To Me Cake (From-Scratch!)

Sock It To Me Cake (From-Scratch!)
Sock It To Me Cake (From-Scratch!). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This retro Southern cake combines buttery pound cake with a warm cinnamon-pecan streusel swirl. Made easily with cake mix and sour cream, then finished with a rich glaze, it’s the perfect comfort dessert for any gathering—a taste of Southern tradition in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sock It To Me Cake (From-Scratch!)

Chocolate Pistachio Bundt Cake with Pudding Mix

Chocolate Pistachio Bundt Cake with Pudding Mix
Chocolate Pistachio Bundt Cake with Pudding Mix. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in layers of chocolatey goodness and pistachio swirls in this show-stopping bundt cake. Made simple with cake mix and pudding, it delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Perfect for wowing guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pistachio Bundt Cake with Pudding Mix

Spice Cake

Spice Cake
Spice Cake. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

This delectable spice cake delivers warm, aromatic flavors in every bite. Whether elegantly stacked in two perfect layers or casually served from a 9×13 pan, it’s topped with velvety cream cheese icing that melts in your mouth. The ultimate comfort dessert for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Spice Cake

7 Up Pound Cake

7 Up Pound Cake
7 Up Pound Cake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Indulge in a slice of heaven with this irresistible 7 Up pound cake. Each bite delivers a perfectly moist, tender crumb with a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. The sweet glaze adds the perfect finishing touch to this classic dessert sensation.
Get the Recipe: 7 Up Pound Cake

Strawberry Jam Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Strawberry Jam Cake with Strawberry Frosting
Strawberry Jam Cake with Strawberry Frosting. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This classic strawberry poke cake delivers nostalgic flavor in every bite. Soft, moist cake infused with sweet strawberry goodness creates the perfect summer dessert. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, it’s an irresistible treat your family will request again and again.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Jam Cake with Strawberry Frosting

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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