55 Party Desserts That Guarantee A Sweet Time
No matter if you’re hosting a gathering or just bringing a dish, dessert should be an essential part of every party. We’ve compiled our most tempting options that are ideal for feeding a crowd (or scaling up). From single-serve treats like mini cakes and bar cookies to impressive pies and layer cakes, and quick-fix sweets like dump cakes, we’ve got something for every type of get-together.
The Most Searched For Cake Recipe In The South
01. Chocolate Sheet Cake
Simple, celebratory, and delicious, you just can’t go wrong with a classic Chocolate Sheet Cake for any party. Don’t be thrown off by the ingredient list: Buttermilk and sour cream add moistness and cut the sweetness of the chocolate, while a bit of coffee boosts the chocolate flavor.
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02. Margarita Balls
“These Margarita Balls are the bourbon balls of the summer,” says Senior Producer Ivy Odom. “They’re sweet, limey, and perfectly but not overly boozy. Just like we like our bourbon balls in the South, they come together super quickly, and like the perfect margarita, have just the right amount of salt.”
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03. Banana Split Cake
Does it get more festive than a sheet cake that mimics a classic ice cream sundae? We don’t think so! “I decided to try and make this for Mother's Day and the cake turned out perfectly. Family said it was amazing and we plan to make more,” writes a reviewer who left the recipe five stars.
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04. Heaven On Earth Cake
Layers of angel food cake, peach pie filling, whipped cream, and vanilla pudding make this easy, trifle-like dessert. Not a fan of peaches? Use any fruit pie filling.
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05. Cheerwine Cherry Cupcakes with Cherry-Swirl Frosting
Many Southern celebrations include bottles of Cheerwine in the cooler, so we decided to take a note from Grandma’s old-fashioned soda cakes and add the North Carolina-made soft drink to a festive cupcake recipe.
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More Delicious Desserts
06. Éclair Cake
This no-bake dessert is one of our most popular for a reason. Let the dozens of five-star reviews speak for themselves: “This recipe is so easy AND delicious AND presents well that I can’t believe I forgot about making it for such a long time!” says one reader.
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07. Cowgirl Cookie Bars
Similar to their cousin the cowboy cookie, these jam-packed bars are bursting with flavor and texture from mix-ins like pecans, coconut, oats, and three (yes, three!) kinds of chocolate chips.
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08. Punch Bowl Cake
“I’ve been making this recipe (handed down to me by my oldest sister) for over 40 years. It’s great for large gatherings, easy to make, looks stunning and everyone always loves it,” wrote a reviewer named Melinda who gave this delightful layered dessert recipe five stars. “Just make sure you have enough room available in your refrigerator for chilling a full punch bowl!”
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09. Monster Cookies
With oats, chocolate chips, toffee bits, and mini M&Ms, these colorful little cookies are full of sweet surprises. The recipe makes a big batch, so it’s perfect for parties.
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10. Knock-You-Naked Brownies
The name is scandalous, but the treat is delicious! These totally decadent brownies are a must-try for chocolate lovers.
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11. Key Lime Sheet Cake
Nothing can cool you off after a big meal during a hot Southern summer like a creamy slice of Key lime pie. If you’re serving a large crew, though, this refreshing Key Lime Sheet Cake is the only way to go.
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12. Strawberry-Pretzel Jello Salad
This one’s an oldie but a goodie, y’all! No one will turn their nose up at this make-ahead jell-O dessert once they try a bite of this sweet-and-salty perfection.
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13. Icebox Cookies
These classic icebox cookies are a one-size-fits-all treat for any gathering. Roll the dough in whatever color sprinkles fit the theme.
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14. Lemon-Lime Poke Cake
This wonderfully bright citrus cake is the perfect bake-and-take dessert for a summer party. Lemon and lime slices make for an easy topper that doesn’t require any decorating skills.
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15. Aunt Brenda’s Sour Cream Banana Pudding
“This is my aunt’s recipe for banana pudding, and I promise y’all, sour cream adds the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tart, tang,” says Senior Producer Ivy Odom. “You’re never going back.
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16. Sugar Cookie Bars
Enjoy classic sugar cookie flavor without worrying about creating perfectly sized cookie dough balls. This big-batch dessert comes together in your 13- x 9-in. pan, and you can alter the frosting color to fit your party theme.
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17. Chocolate Delight
This layered confection goes by many names, but no matter what you call it, we can guarantee it will disappear right before your eyes. Don’t skip any of the chilling steps if you want nice, even layers.
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18. Easy Fudge
When we say easy, we mean it! You won’t need a candy thermometer for this chocolate treat that calls for just a handful of ingredients.
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19. Easy Peach Pie
Store bought pie crusts make this dessert come together quickly. To give the crust a homemade flavor and pretty finish, sprinkle the top layer with turbinado sugar before it goes into the oven.
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20. Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
We took a classic Southern dessert and made it even easier, thanks to a white cake mix. Even better—this recipe comes together right in the baking dish, so there are less dishes to do.
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21. Chocolate Fondue
A pot of warm chocolate fondue is a sure way to get the party started. You'll only need five ingredients and 30 minutes to throw it together. Spring for high-quality chocolate for the tastiest results.
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22. Mahogany Cake
This little-known brick red cake is just like a red velvet cake, but without the food coloring, and with a heavenly ermine frosting that spreads like a dream.
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23. Atlantic Beach Pie Bars
A creamy lemon-lime filling and sweet Saltine cracker crust make these a delicious alternative to traditional lemon bars. Fancy them up with a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy them as-is.
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24. Easiest-Ever Blueberry Galette
If making a pie seems intimidating, try a rustic galette made with frozen puff pastry dough. This recipe is flavored with culinary lavender, but you can easily omit it with great results.
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25. Strawberry Pound Cake
This bright pink cake will make a statement on the dessert table. Fresh strawberries are used in the glaze and in the batter.
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26. Chocolate Chip Blondies
You can never go wrong bringing a batch of bar cookies to a party. And these buttery, chocolate-filled blondies will fly off the dessert table.
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27. Peaches-And-Cream Icebox Pies
If you're hosting during higher temperatures, you're not likely to fire up the oven for dessert. That's why these no-bake icebox pies are the perfect summer party treat.
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28. Honeybee Cupcakes
If you couldn’t guess from the name, honey is the star ingredient in these beautiful cupcakes. For an even more beautiful presentation, add a drizzle of honey and an edible flower.
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29. Mini Coconut-Key Lime Pies
These mini pies are a tropical paradise in bite-sized form. One reviewer advises you not to skip out on the homemade whipped cream.
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30. Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
There actually isn’t a dollop of cheesecake in these ‘cheescake’ bites, but you’re the only one who has to know. The no-bake, minimally-messy mixture tastes just like strawberry cheesecake — without the hassle.
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31. Triple Chocolate-Brownie Mousse Stacks
These chocolatey stacks are great for entertaining because you can assemble and chill them for up to 24 hours ahead of time. You don’t need any special equipment to create them, just aluminum foil and clean paper clips to form mini cans for filling.
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32. Lemon Tiramisù
Tiramisù is delicious no matter what. Throw lemon into the mix and you’ll have a to-die-for dessert.
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33. Pecan Cheesecake Pie
You don’t have to decide between pie and cheesecake. This dessert lets guests have both. The nutty topping adds a nice crunch to the characteristic creaminess of the popular cheesecake.
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34. Lemon Sherbet Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
For a spring party, baby shower, or cookout, bring cheer to the menu with citrus-flavored cupcakes. The sherbet-colored frosting is reminiscent of the popular party punch.
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35. Cappuccino Swirl Bars
Offer your guests coffee and dessert with these decadent bars. Make them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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36. Best-Ever Brownies
If you love boxed brownies, this is the ultimate chewy, chocolatey, homemade version you’ve been looking for. Instead of squares, cut your brownies into diamond shapes for a prettier party platter.
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37. Fried Apple Pies
Pockets of sweet apple filling are sure to delight party guests. While still warm, dip these in a cinnamon-sugar coating.
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38. Mini Triple-Chocolate Buttermilk Pound Cakes
Everyone gets their own sweet cake when you make mini versions. These little pound cakes are perfect for everything from picnics to holiday parties. Chocolate and buttermilk glazes make these extra luscious.
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39. Easy Blackberry Cobbler
Make the easiest blackberry cobbler using only six ingredients. To make it extra special, top it with whipped cream and a mint garnish.
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40. Coconut-Almond Cream Cake
This decadent cake is deliciously rich as well as moist. For a colorful presentation, garnish with kumquats, currants, and fresh mint sprigs.
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41. Mini Confetti Cakes
Guests will never know how easy these mini cakes are to make. Cut the small cake layers from a sheet cake using a round cutter. Whipped cream makes frosting the cakes simple and quick.
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42. Easy Individual Peach Pies
These little pies are perfect for outdoor entertaining. The pie crust edges are folded over like a galette to keep assembly easy and the glorious peach filling from spilling out. Made right in your muffin tin with refrigerated pie crust, these are a breeze to put together.
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43. Heaven In A Bowl
If you want to impress a crowd, you can't do much better than this incredible layered dessert made with brownies, peanut butter pudding, chunks of peanut butter cups, and sweetened whipped cream. Assemble the trifle the night before you plan to serve it, and prepare for rave reviews.
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44. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Sweet chocolate cake and salty peanut butter buttercream are a match made in heaven. The peanut butter isn’t too overpowering but complements the cupcake just enough to cut the sweetness.
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45. Rebecca's Black Bottom Icebox Pie
With a rich, creamy filling and melt-in-your-mouth crust, this is quite possibly the best chocolate pie ever. Make it up to filling the pie crust a day ahead. Top with whipped cream and garnish before serving.
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46. Chocolate Pecan Chess Pie
Cocoa powder and semisweet chocolate turn a typically sweet dessert into something more sophisticated.
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47. Lemon Pound Cake
You can’t miss when serving a simple pound cake, and this one is bursting with bright, sunny flavor thanks to lemon in the cake, glaze, and icing.
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48. Lemon Meltaways
You’ll use just a tad less than two sticks of butter to make these delicate little gems. Toss them with powdered sugar while still warm.
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49. Mini Carrot Cakes
Everyone will make a fuss over these single-serve carrot cakes but they are a breeze to make. All you need is a sheet cake and a cookie cutter!
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50. Fudge Pie
You’ll put your microwave to use for this chocolate treat. This fudge pie is one of the most wickedly delicious chocolate desserts you'll ever eat. Try it with ice cream for an even better result.
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51. Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Use four cups of strawberries on these fresh shortcakes. Sanding sugar tops the vanilla biscuits for some extra sweetness and texture.
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52. Mini Bourbon-and-Cola Bundt Cakes
Turn a classic cocktail into a dessert your company will rave about. Chocolate cakes are made even more luscious with bourbon and cola in the batter and the glaze. Make mini treats or one large cake for your special occasion.
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53. Meyer Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Meyer lemons have a sweeter taste than regular lemons, with a slight floral note. Guests will notice the distinctive taste with the first bite. Create the marbled effect by swirling Meyer lemon curd into the cheesecake batter.
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54. Cherry Pie Bars
There’s no need to fuss over making a pie when these bars are equally delicious. Generous for a crowd and portable, count on this fruity dessert for all of your summer potlucks.
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55. Petite
What is the main purpose of the dessert list in the article?
To provide a variety of dessert options for parties, suitable for feeding large crowds and easy to scale up.
Which dessert is the most searched for cake recipe in the South?
Chocolate Sheet Cake.
Can the Margarita Balls be served at a summer party?
Yes, they are described as sweet, limey, and the perfect amount of boozy for summer parties.
How does the Banana Split Cake mimic the classic ice cream sundae?
It mimics the flavor and texture of a banana split.
What makes the Heaven On Earth Cake’s layers unique?
It uses layers of angel food cake, peach pie filling, whipped cream, and vanilla pudding.
What traditional soda is used in the Cheerwine Cherry Cupcakes recipe?
Cheerwine, a popular northern Carolina-made soft drink.
Which dessert is called one of the most popular in the list, according to a reviewer?
Éclair Cake, with dozens of five-star reviews.
What makes Cowgirl Cookie Bars a unique recipe?
They have a burst of flavor and texture with pecans, coconut, oats, and three types of chocolate chips.
What is special about the Punch Bowl Cake that makes it stand out?
It’s great for large gatherings, easy to make, looks stunning, and is loved by everyone.
How does the preparation time for Monster Cookies affect the party experience?
It makes a big batch, ideal for parties due to its easy preparation.
What gives the Knock-You-Naked Brownies their decadent taste?
Its totally decadent nature and delicious flavor, making it a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Why is the Key Lime Sheet Cake a preferred choice for summer parties?
Its refreshing nature and ability to cool off guests after a big meal during a hot summer.
What makes the Strawberry-Pretzel Jello Salad a timeless dessert choice?
It’s a well-loved, vintage dessert that no one will turn down.
Are Icebox Cookies easy to customize for any party?
Yes, by rolling the dough in any color sprinkles that fit the party theme.
How does the Lemon-Lime Poke Cake make an easy topper for the dessert table?
By using lemon and lime slices, which are easy to use as decoration without requiring fancy skills.
What does Aunt Brenda’s recipe add to the sour cream banana pudding?
It adds the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tart, and tangy flavors.
How do Sugar Cookie Bars offer an easy dessert option to parties?
They come together in an 13- x 9-in. pan and allow for frosting color adjustments to fit the theme.
What layer confection, known by many names, disappears quickly at parties?
Chocolate Delight.
What makes Easy Fudge simple to prepare?
It only requires a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of preparation.
How does the Easy Peach Pie simplify the dessert preparation?
It uses store-bought pie crusts, and it comes together rapidement.
What unique twist does the Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake add to a traditional Southern dessert?
It uses a white cake mix for simplicity and ease of preparation, and makes a mess-free dessert by combining and baking in the dish.
What are the key ingredients in making a pot of Chocolate Fondue?
Five ingredients and minimal effort, with high-quality chocolate recommended for best results.
How does the Mahogany Cake differ from red velvet cake?
It has a brick red color without food coloring and is covered with a smooth ermine frosting.
What makes Atlantic Beach Pie Bars a good choice for a party?
A creamy lemon-lime filling and cracker crust offer a delicious alternative to lemon bars, with an optional whipped cream topping.
How can the Easiest-Ever Blueberry Galette be prepared if you are intimidated by making pies?
It is a rustic galette made using frozen puff pastry dough, flavored with culinary lavender, though it can be omitted.
What unique ingredient is highlighted in the Honeybee Cupcakes recipe?
Honey, which is the star ingredient in these beautiful cupcakes, with the option to add a drizzle of honey and an edible flower for presentation.
What is the suggested garnish for the Mini Coconut-Key Lime Pies according to a reviewer?
The reviewer advises not to skip the homemade whipped cream for garnish.
What makes the Best-Ever Brownies special?
They are described as the ultimate chewy, chocolatey version of boxed brownies, cut into diamond shapes for a prettier party platter.
How are Fried Apple Pies prepared, and should they be served?
Fried apple pies are made with pockets of sweet apple filling and should be dipped in cinnamon-sugar coating when still warm.
What makes the Mini Triple-Chocolate Buttermilk Pound Cakes perfect for party platters?
These small pound cakes come with chocolate and buttermilk glazes, making them extra luscious for parties.
What makes the Easy Blackberry Cobbler easy to prepare and special?
It’s made with only six ingredients and can be topped with whipped cream and mint garnish to make it extra special.
How does the Coconut-Almond Cream Cake maintain richness and moisture?
The cake is described as rich and moist, and can be garnished with kumquats, currants, and fresh mint sprigs for an attractive presentation.
What makes Mini Confetti Cakes a good idea for parties?
Guests are unaware of how easy they are to make, featuring sheet cake layers and whipped cream frosting.
How does the Easy Individual Peach Pies offer a versatile party dessert?
The little pies are perfect for outdoor events, with a folded edge design for easier assembly.
What makes the Heaven In A Bowl dessert a standout option?
It’s described as one of the most incredible layered desserts, incorporating brownies, peanut butter pudding, and peanut butter cups with whipped cream, which can be assembled the night before.
What unique ingredients are present in the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes’ recipe?
It combines sweet chocolate cake with salty peanut butter buttercream, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
What sets Rebecca’s Black Bottom Icebox Pie apart as a chocolate pie?
It’s suggested to be one of the best chocolate pies, featuring a rich, creamy filling and a melt-in-your-mouth crust, with optional assembly the day before serving.
What makes the Chocolate Pecan Chess Pie a more sophisticated choice?
Cocoa powder and semisweet chocolate are added to upgrade the traditional sweet dessert.
What distinctive flavor is added to the Lemon Pound Cake recipe?
Lemon is added to the cake, glaze, and icing for a bright, sunny flavor.
How do the Lemon Meltaways get their texture?
By using half butter, creating delicate, warm gems that should be tossed in powdered sugar while still warm.
What makes Mini Carrot Cakes a simple and fun party recipe?
They are effortless to make, simply using a sheet cake and a cookie cutter to create single-serve carrot cakes.
What distinguishes the Fudge Pie’s dessert experience?
A microwaveable chocolate treat, it’s highly recommended for its delicious chocolate flavor and impressive presentation.
How does the Classic Strawberry Shortcake surprise guests?
It uses fresh strawberries, and is topped with sanding sugar for an extra sweet and textured experience.
What makes Mini Bourbon-and-Cola Bundt Cakes a perfect party treat?
They turn a classic cocktail into a dessert with flavors of bourbon and cola in the batter and glaze, suitable for both mini treats or a large cake at special occasions.
What unique element does the Meyer Lemon Cheesecake Bars incorporate?
Meyer lemons with a sweeter and floral taste, creating a distinct flavor when swirled into the cheesecake batter, offering a marbled effect.
What makes Cherry Pie Bars a convenient option for summer potlucks?
Their large portions, portability, and delicious flavor make them a reliable dessert choice, equivalent to a regular pie in taste.
What are Petite Carrot Muffins?
They are not mentioned in the provided recipes, but based on the context, likely refers to smaller versions of carrot muffins suitable for parties.
