The art of baking has been a timeless tradition for centuries, with each generation passing down their favorite recipes to the next. In this era of modern conveniences and instant gratification, there’s something special about returning to these classic old-fashioned cakes that have stood the test of time. These beloved treats evoke memories of grandma’s kitchen, Sunday dinners, and family gatherings. With their rich flavors, tender textures, and warm aromas, they’re sure to delight both young and old.
In this article, we’ll take a step back in time and revisit 18 classic old-fashioned cake recipes that are still delightfully timeless today. From traditional pound cakes to decadent red velvet masterpieces, each of these recipes has been passed down through generations, remaining a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. So, grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, and get ready to indulge in the warm, comforting nostalgia of these classic old-fashioned cake recipes.
Grandma’s Old Fashioned Pound Cake
This classic pound cake recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious, it’s the perfect dessert to serve at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Southern Old Fashioned Caramel Cake
Rich, moist cake soaked in a velvety caramel sauce, this classic Southern dessert is sure to please even the most discerning palates. With its deep, buttery flavor and smooth texture, it’s the perfect treat for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with caramel sauce (begin and end with dry ingredients).
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool completely before serving with additional caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Fashioned Applesauce Cake
This classic dessert has been a staple for generations, with its moist texture and sweet flavor making it a crowd-pleaser. Our Old Fashioned Applesauce Cake recipe is a simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup applesauce
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add applesauce and mix well. Gradually add the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vintage Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Take a step back in time with this classic dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the tanginess of cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Spread or pipe onto cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
This moist and flavorful cake has been a beloved Southern tradition for decades. With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 2 cups (250g) canned pineapple, drained and chopped
– 1 cup (120g) crushed pecans or walnuts
– 1 cup (240ml) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until combined.
4. Stir in oil, pineapple, and nuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before glazing with sweetened condensed milk.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic Lane Cake with Coconut Filling
This moist and decadent cake has been a Southern staple for generations. The addition of toasted coconut flakes to the rich filling takes it to new heights.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
For the filling:
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. Add softened butter and mix until combined. Beat in eggs and milk.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Prepare filling by mixing coconut, heavy cream, and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, whisking until well combined.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading the coconut filling on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Old Fashioned Red Velvet Cake
This classic recipe yields a moist and decadent red velvet cake with a subtle cocoa flavor and a hint of tartness from the buttermilk.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder and buttermilk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in red food coloring and oil.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Traditional German Chocolate Cake
This classic German chocolate cake recipe yields a moist and rich dessert with a deep brown color and a caramel-like flavor. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats, this cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or over double boiler; let cool slightly.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth tops. Drizzle with melted chocolate.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Old Fashioned Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This classic dessert recipe yields a moist and flavorful cake with caramelized pineapple rings and a hint of brown sugar, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen. With just the right balance of sweet and tangy, this upside-down cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 cup pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until smooth.
3. Arrange pineapple rings on the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Pour batter over pineapple rings and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Devil’s Food Cake
Sink your teeth into this decadent homemade Devil’s Food Cake, a classic dessert that’s sure to impress. With its intense chocolate flavor and velvety texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and whisk until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Old Fashioned Banana Nut Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a classic recipe that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of nuts, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add mashed bananas, chopped nuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Marble Cake with Vanilla Glaze
This moist and flavorful marble cake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its swirly white and brown design, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing with Vanilla Glaze (recipe below).
Vanilla Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Combine all ingredients and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Old Fashioned Coconut Cake with Seven-Minute Frosting
This classic dessert is a staple of Southern cuisine, featuring a moist and flavorful coconut cake topped with a creamy seven-minute frosting. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 7-Minute Frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Seven-Minute Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine ingredients in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for 7 minutes or until smooth and creamy.
Vintage Black Forest Cake
This classic German dessert is a rich and decadent treat that combines moist chocolate cake with whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate shavings. With its deep flavors and velvety texture, it’s no wonder why the Black Forest Cake remains a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
– Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Old Fashioned Jam Cake with Brown Sugar Icing
Old Fashioned Jam Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe
This classic cake recipe is a staple of traditional baking, with a moist and flavorful jam filling surrounded by a light and fluffy sponge. The brown sugar icing adds a sweet and caramel-like touch to this beloved treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup jam (your choice of flavor)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the jam, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before spreading brown sugar icing (see below) on top of one cake.
7. Sandwich with the other cake layer and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Brown Sugar Icing:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Combine ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Spread over cooled cake layer.
Classic Angel Food Cake with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this timeless combination of a tender angel food cake and sweet, juicy fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites (about 12 large eggs)
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a combination)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour into a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar to egg mixture, whipping until smooth.
4. Add melted butter, salt, and sifted flour to egg mixture. Fold gently until just combined.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch (25cm) tube pan or angel food cake pan.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before slicing and serving with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Old Fashioned Molasses Spice Cake
This classic recipe yields a moist and flavorful cake infused with the rich sweetness of molasses and the warmth of spices, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a medium bowl.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traditional Italian Cream Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, with layers of moist cake, creamy frosting, and toasted nuts. A show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely. Spread whipped cream on top of one cake layer, then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and chopped nuts. Repeat with remaining layers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per cake layer
Summary
Get ready to be transported back in time with these classic old-fashioned cake recipes! From Grandma’s Old Fashioned Pound Cake to Vintage Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, this collection of timeless treats will delight anyone looking for a taste of nostalgia. With a range of flavors and textures, from moist pound cakes to decadent red velvet cakes, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet treats of yesteryear!
