The 20 best cake recipes, according to our readers

It would be impossible to count the number of readers who voted for the Hummingbird Cake. This classic, which is made all year round, was without a doubt the highest-rated recipe on the list.

Strawberry and lemon are not only a tasty combination, they also look simply stunning together. “A family favorite,” says reader Kay Gabriele.

Presentation is clearly important to our readers as many beautiful layer cakes made it into the top 20. This cake features another tasty combination that brings together sweet pineapple, cream cheese and toasted coconut.

Let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be a Life in the South Let’s round up without this fan favorite. While there were plenty of votes for different flavors of pound cake (chocolate, lime, sour cream), this classic remains the most popular.

Chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe was one of the most requested by the group. In fact, even the making of this cake brings joy, according to one reviewer who said, “I absolutely loved the whole process of making this cake.”

This spectacular cake is made with buttermilk, coconut, and cream cheese frosting, and is always a wonderful addition to any dessert spread. One 5-star reviewer shared, “I made this cake for a church cake auction, won best tasting cake, and sold it for $2,000.00! The proceeds went to the youth group for a mission trip…my heart jumped for joy!”

Texas Puff Cake needs no introduction and deserves all the kudos. It’s a great recipe for potlucks, picnics, or birthday parties. One reader shared, “Super moist and decadent dessert. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream. Will definitely make this again.”

This recipe has received so many votes that it’s clear that readers rely on it for all types of celebrations, from holidays to church gatherings to birthdays. Reader Sue Waters commented, “Your 70s carrot cake remains my all-time favorite!”

This cake is not only delicious, but it also looks very impressive on the buffet table. The two layers of moist and flavorful cake pair perfectly with a creamy cream cheese frosting.

We hear you: you love chocolate recipes, especially when they’re delicious and easy to make. Nothing’s easier than this one-bowl cake. Miracles happen.

Although this is a newly published recipe, it is receiving many rave reviews from readers because it is an old-fashioned favorite. Mahogany cake is known for its reddish-brown mahogany color, which precedes the red velvet that we know you all love.

Lane Cake is one of the most iconic Southern recipes of all time, so we weren’t surprised to see votes for this beauty. One reviewer shared, “Hummingbird cake has been a family favorite for decades, but this Lane Cake is simply outstanding! Decadent and delicious. The texture is beyond words. This Texas family now has two favorite cakes for our holiday celebrations.”

Southerners know that mayonnaise is a magic ingredient for many recipes, including cakes. This recipe is proof that mayonnaise is the perfect partner for chocolate for a dessert to die for.

Every Southern baker knows that there is nothing more delicious than making a caramel cake for friends and family. This cake is rich, buttery, and quite easy to make.

It’s clear from your responses that sheet cakes are one of your favorite desserts to make. We couldn’t agree more. Marshmallows and pecans are the secret ingredients in this recipe, which is topped off with a rich chocolate frosting.

Unsurprisingly, pound cake made the list multiple times, but Key Lime was the fan favorite. This recipe puts a tropical spin on the buttery classic.

There was no way we could publish a top 20 without including Strawberry Shortcake. We agree: there’s really nothing better than sweet, juicy strawberries layered on soft, flaky cookies.

Coconut lovers, prepare to salivate. The ingredient shines in this impressive layer cake, featuring a coconut sponge and coconut filling, then finished with a light and airy whipped cream frosting.

When you love something, you stick with it again and again. This recipe transformed Southern cola into a rich, moist chocolate cake.

We know Life in the South Readers love coconut, but they also love pineapple desserts. This retro cake will bring back fond memories of our parents and grandparents. Not only will this dish please everyone, but it can be made in just 15 minutes.