During the holiday season we hear “What’s for dessert?” even more than usual. And when it comes to dessert, the Southern Living Test Kitchen knows that Southerners love cakes. We decided to round out a few of the most popular recipes this year, from seasonal gems to old-fashioned favorites.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Chocolate lovers can’t resist a classic, and this popular dessert uses cocoa instead of melted chocolate. It’s a great pick for a potluck, birthday, or holiday celebration.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
All of the reviews said this recipe was moist, flavorful, and perfect for anytime of day. One reader said: “The cake is moist with a nice apple and spice flavor. I served it with a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.”
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
Five stars all around for this old-fashioned dessert. One review said: “Tomato Cake has been a favorite in my family for many years. We normally bake ours in a tube pan and always add chopped pecans and raisins…My mom made this for my birthday many times and it remains my favorite cake today.”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
We can confirm that this delicious dessert is good at breakfast or after a late night out. This cake is rich, moist, and decadent, with a generous dose of Southern bourbon in the mix.
Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Karen Rankin, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
A cake made for any occasion. One review said: “Just tried this for a birthday and we all loved it! Super moist and decadent dessert. Paired well with vanilla ice cream. Will definitely make again.”
Molly Bolton
Readers raved about this cake that is perfect for giving – or enjoying on your own. One review said: “This cake is was a big hit! I didn’t have any sour cream or heavy cream on hand. I subbed greek yogurt for both and it worked like a charm. Definitely a recipe keeper.”
Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Not only does this dessert taste great but it makes an impressive presentation. One review said: “FABULOUS!!! We made this cake in parfaits for my daughter’s wedding! Guest couldn’t get enough of it. Had to stop my helpers from eating the icing right out of the bowl.”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
This dessert is proof that y’all love your delicious, extra-impressive showstoppers just as much as the easy, 2-ingredient gems.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
This old-fashioned favorite was the most popular cake of 2024. One reviewer said: “Knocks your typical chocolate cake out of the water. Buttermilk makes it extra moist. Can’t wait to bake again!”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Almost 70 5-star reviews makes this cake a winner year after year. One review said: “I’ve made this cake many, many times over the years, and it’s always a hit.”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
This cake does not only taste delicious, but it’s a trusty go-to for potluck and Church auctions too. One review said: “Made this cake for a Church cake auction, won best tasting cake and sold for $2000.00! Benefits went to the youth group for a mission trip… made my heart jump for joy!”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Five stars all-around for this seasonal staple. One review said: “Absolutely delicious cake. It really doesn’t taste like pumpkin at all, but very much like the delicious cinnamon-spiced flavor of carrot cake. The pecans go wonderfully, but I personally did not find the whipped cream frosting an ideal pairing.I can’t wait to make this again, but with a cream cheese frosting or buttercream next time.”
Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf
Would it be a celebration without a chocolate layer cake? This cake is rich, extra moist, and a decadent choice for any type of festivity, especially a birthday,
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Of course this Southern classic made the list. Reviews always come piling in from “This is the first cake I have ever baked from scratch” to ” The cake was served at a church function and everyone just raved over it.” This recipe stands the test of time.
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
A delicious cake that is impossible to eat just one slice. One of our favorite reviews of the year, too: “Super easy and so delicious! The chocolate glaze is utterly decadent. I’d give it 10 stars if I were allowed!”