14 Cake Recipes To Try This Holiday Season
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The holidays are when I lean into baking cakes that feel familiar, shareable, and worth the effort. They’re great for gatherings, gifting, or having something ready when friends and family stop by. This collection focuses on cakes that fit busy schedules while still making the season feel special.
White Texas Sheet Cake
This sheet cake works well for celebrations where you need a dessert that feeds a group. It bakes in one pan and is easy to slice and serve. The soft texture and sweet frosting make it familiar and crowd-friendly. It’s a reliable option when baking for gatherings or family get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: White Texas Sheet Cake
Strawberry Poke Cake
Strawberry poke cake is a smart choice when you want a dessert that feels festive without being complicated. It can be made ahead, which helps during busy baking days. The chilled finish makes it easy to store and serve later. This cake fits well into seasonal meals and shared tables.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Poke Cake
Oreo Mousse Cake (3 Ingredients)
This cake keeps things simple while still feeling special enough for celebrations. With a short ingredient list, it’s approachable even when time is limited. The no-bake style helps free up oven space. It works well when multiple desserts are planned for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Mousse Cake (3 Ingredients)
Honey Cake
Honey cake is a classic option that feels right at home during cooler months. It holds well after baking, making it easy to prepare ahead of time. The subtle sweetness pairs nicely with coffee or tea. This makes it a steady choice for holiday visits and shared meals.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cake
Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
This cake brings familiar seasonal flavors to the table without extra fuss. It’s baked in one pan and flips out ready to serve. The fruit topping keeps it moist and easy to portion. It works well for family dinners and small celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Chocolate Dump Cake
Chocolate dump cake is ideal when you need dessert without spending hours baking. It comes together quickly and bakes while you focus on other dishes. The rich chocolate flavor makes it feel special enough for gatherings. This is a dependable option for busy holiday schedules.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dump Cake
Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake
This cake is well suited for potlucks and larger gatherings. It stays moist and slices easily for serving a crowd. The familiar flavor makes it approachable for all ages. It’s a strong choice when you need a dependable dessert for celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake
Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake works well when you want a lighter dessert alongside heavier meals. The components can be prepared ahead and assembled as needed. It’s easy to portion and serve at the table. This makes it useful during busy hosting days.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake
Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat Mini
Mini lemon loaves are practical for gifting or serving individual portions. Their size helps with portion control and easy sharing. They store well and can be made ahead. This makes them a smart choice during the baking season.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat Mini
Banana Caramel Cake
Banana caramel cake is a good way to turn simple ingredients into a shareable dessert. It holds together well and slices cleanly for serving. The flavors feel familiar and comforting. This works nicely for family gatherings and casual celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Banana Caramel Cake
Ultra Moist Chocolate Cake
This chocolate cake fits well when you want a dependable dessert that feels special. It works for birthdays, gatherings, or quiet celebrations at home. The texture stays soft even after storage. That makes it helpful during busy holiday weeks.
Get the Recipe: Ultra Moist Chocolate Cake
Blueberry Upside Down Cake
This cake offers a fruit-forward dessert that feels right for shared meals. It bakes in a single pan and serves easily once flipped. The blueberries add moisture and color to each slice. It’s a solid choice for family tables and celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake
Coconut Cake
Coconut cake brings a classic dessert option that many people recognize. It works well as a centerpiece dessert for gatherings. The layers hold up well once assembled. This makes it useful when planning ahead for celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cake
Frosted Lemonade Ice Cream Cake
This ice cream cake is helpful when oven space is limited. It can be made ahead and kept frozen until needed. The cold, creamy texture offers a nice contrast to heavier meals. This makes it a refreshing option for holiday desserts.
Get the Recipe: Frosted Lemonade Ice Cream Cake