“even more than usual.
And when it comes todessert, the Southern Living Test Kitchen knows that Southerners love cakes.
It’s a great pick for a potluck, birthday, or holiday celebration.

Credit:Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
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.”
Tomato Soup Cake
Five stars all around for this old-fashioned dessert.

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
One review said: “Tomato Cake has been a favorite in my family for many years.
One review said: “Just tried this for a birthday and we all loved it!
Super moist and decadent dessert.

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Paired well with vanilla ice cream.
Will definitely make again.”
One review said: “This cake is was a big hit!

Credit:Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
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.”

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
One review said: “FABULOUS!!!
We made this cake in parfaits for my daughter’s wedding!
Guest couldn’t get enough of it.

Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Karen Rankin, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
Had to stop my helpers from eating the icing right out of the bowl.”
Mahogany Cake
This old-fashioned favorite was the most popular cake of 2024.
One reviewer said: “Knocks your typical chocolate cake out of the water.

Credit:Molly Bolton
Buttermilk makes it extra moist.
Can’t wait to bake again!”
Best Carrot Cake
Almost 70 5-star reviews makes this cake a winner year after year.

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Benefits went to the youth group for a mission trip… made my heart jump for joy!”
Pumpkin Cake
Five stars all-around for this seasonal staple.
One review said: “Absolutely delicious cake.

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
This recipe stands the test of time.
One of our favorite reviews of the year, too: “Super easy and so delicious!
The chocolate glaze is utterly decadent.

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
I’d give it 10 stars if I were allowed!”

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Credit:Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Credit:Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless