8. Hummingbird Cake
The Hummingbird Cake is a moist, flavorful cake that combines bananas, pineapples, and pecans, making it a true Southern delight. The origins of this cake are rooted in the South, and it is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.
To make a traditional Hummingbird Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Combine the dry ingredients in one bowl, and in another bowl, mix the wet ingredients and bananas. Gradually combine both mixtures, fold in the pineapple and pecans, then pour into prepared cake pans and bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. Let cool and frost with cream cheese frosting for a decadent finish!
9. Chess Pie
Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s both simple and rich. This custard-like pie has a unique flavor that comes from its key ingredients: sugar, butter, eggs, and a splash of vinegar. It’s often flavored with vanilla, lemon, or chocolate, depending on your preference.
For a basic Chess Pie, gather these ingredients:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, cornmeal, and flour. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and vinegar, mixing until smooth. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned. Let cool before slicing to enjoy a delicious slice of Southern history!
10. Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie is one of the hallmark desserts of the Southern kitchen. Its sweet, gooey filling studded with crunchy pecans is a staple at Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings. The simple combination of ingredients results in a pie that’s both rich and satisfying.
To whip up a classic Pecan Pie, you will need:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix together the corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the pecans. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden. Let cool before serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
11. Red Velvet Cake
Red Velvet Cake is not just a feast for the eyes with its striking red color, but it also offers a delightful flavor profile that combines a subtle cocoa taste with a hint of tanginess from buttermilk. This cake is a Southern classic, especially popular around holidays and special occasions.
To bake a traditional Red Velvet Cake, you will need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your cake pans. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, then combine both mixtures. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Frost with cream cheese frosting for the ultimate decadent experience!
12. Banana Pudding
Banana Pudding is a traditional Southern dessert that layers creamy custard, crunchy vanilla wafers, and fresh bananas. It’s a comforting dish that brings back nostalgic memories of family reunions and potlucks.
To prepare a classic Banana Pudding, gather these ingredients:
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
In a saucepan, combine sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk and cook over medium heat until thickened. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and temper with some of the hot mixture before adding back to the saucepan. Stir in vanilla. In a trifle dish, layer wafers, bananas, and pudding. Top with whipped cream and chill before serving for a refreshing dessert!
13. Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie is a comforting Southern dessert that is often overlooked in favor of its pumpkin counterpart. This pie is sweet, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a delightful end to any meal.
For a delicious Sweet Potato Pie, you will need:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until smooth. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing and serve with whipped cream for an extra touch!
14. Coconut Cake
Coconut Cake is a light and fluffy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This cake is often layered with creamy frosting and shredded coconut, making it a tropical delight in the heart of the South.
To make a classic Coconut Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Alternate adding the flour mixture and coconut milk until well combined. Fold in shredded coconut. Pour the batter into prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Frost with coconut cream frosting for a luscious finish!
15. Mississippi Mud Pie
Mississippi Mud Pie is a decadent dessert that combines a chocolate cookie crust with a rich chocolate filling and fluffy whipped cream. This pie is a true indulgence that satisfies even the most intense chocolate cravings.
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes. In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat. In a mixing bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and chill for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set.
16. Peach Cobbler
Peach Cobbler is a quintessential Southern dessert that highlights the sweetness of fresh peaches. This warm and comforting dish is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a beloved summer treat.
To make a traditional Peach Cobbler, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a bowl, toss the peaches with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon and set aside. In another bowl, mix the flour, milk, melted butter, baking powder, and salt until combined. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, then spoon the peaches over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful finish!
17. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie is an indulgent twist on the classic pecan pie. The addition of chocolate and a hint of bourbon elevates this dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a favorite at holiday gatherings.
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon bourbon
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix the corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and bourbon until well combined. Stir in the pecans and chocolate chips. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 60-70 minutes. Let cool before serving to enjoy a slice of this rich and decadent pie!
18. Lemon Icebox Pie
Lemon Icebox Pie is a refreshing dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. This no-bake pie combines the tartness of lemon with a creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a pie dish. In another bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream and pour the filling into the crust. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set.
19. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that celebrates the sweetness of fresh strawberries. This layered dessert features fluffy biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, making it a favorite for summer gatherings.
To create this classic treat, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into rounds and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool, then layer with strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful summer dessert!
20. Key Lime Pie
Key Lime Pie is a tangy and sweet dessert that hails from the Florida Keys. It’s made with fresh key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust, making it a perfect balance of flavors.
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest until smooth. Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust and bake for 15-20 minutes until set. Let cool, then chill in the refrigerator before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and lime slices for a refreshing dessert!
Conclusion
These 20 Southern sweet treats are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a taste of the South to your kitchen. Whether you prefer the rich flavors of chocolate and pecans or the refreshing taste of citrus and berries, there is something here for everyone. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking these delicious recipes that celebrate the sweet side of Southern cuisine!