18 Once-Popular Cakes That Need To Make A Comeback
Not all cakes get the love they deserve these days. Some vintage recipes have faded into obscurity—replaced by trendier options like cupcakes, cake pops, or naked cakes. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t still delicious. From old-school Southern classics to retro grocery store hits, here are 18 cakes that once ruled the dessert table and definitely deserve a second chance.
1. Baked Alaska
Baked Alaska
Imagine a cake that combines ice cream and meringue, set aflame to create a delightful spectacle. Baked Alaska is a culinary masterpiece that offers a taste of nostalgia with its rich flavors and dramatic presentation. Picture the center of attention at any gathering in the 1950s.
Despite its seemingly complex appearance, this cake is surprisingly achievable at home. Its contrasting temperatures and textures make every bite a journey.
While it has fallen out of favor in recent times, its charm and uniqueness demand a glorious return to the dessert tables.
2. Tomato Soup Cake
Tomato Soup Cake
This cake defies expectations by incorporating canned tomato soup as its secret ingredient. Originating during the Depression-era, it captures a time when creativity was essential in baking. Surprisingly, the soup adds moisture without a trace of its flavor.
The cake’s spices—cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg—take the spotlight, offering a warm, comforting taste.
Today, Tomato Soup Cake stands as a testament to resourceful baking. While unconventional, its intriguing history and unique taste make a compelling case for its revival in modern kitchens.
3. Lane Cake
Lane Cake
Lane Cake is a true Southern gem, known for its decadent filling of bourbon-soaked raisins, coconut, and pecans. Its origins trace back to Alabama, where it graced the tables of special occasions.
This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of Southern tradition. The rich, boozy filling is sandwiched between layers of white cake, offering a taste experience like no other.
Lane Cake’s allure lies in its bold flavors and indulgent nature. It’s time for this Southern classic to make a triumphant return to celebrations.
4. Watergate Cake
Watergate Cake
Named after the infamous scandal of the 1970s, Watergate Cake is as intriguing as its history. With its distinctive green hue, thanks to pistachio pudding, it captures attention instantly.
The cake’s light, fluffy texture, combined with creamy frosting, creates a delightful contrast. It embodies the quirky and experimental spirit of retro desserts.
Though its name might invoke history, its taste remains timeless. Watergate Cake is a nostalgic reminder of a bold era in baking, deserving of a comeback in today’s dessert repertoire.
5. Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird Cake
Born in the heart of the South, Hummingbird Cake is a celebration of tropical flavors. With bananas, pineapple, and pecans, it brings a moist, fruity punch to the palate.
The cake’s origins are as delightful as its taste, symbolizing Southern hospitality and warmth. Each bite is a journey through a luscious blend of textures and flavors.
Despite its occasional appearances, Hummingbird Cake deserves a prominent spot at gatherings. Its vibrant taste and rich history call for a revival in modern dining.
6. Black Forest Cake
Black Forest Cake
With roots in Germany, Black Forest Cake is a perfect marriage of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. This cake captures old-world charm and luxury with its layered elegance.
The rich chocolate sponge, combined with tart cherries and luscious cream, offers a symphony of flavors. Each slice tells a story of indulgence.
Though it may be less frequent on today’s tables, its dramatic presentation and exquisite taste make Black Forest Cake a timeless contender for revival. It deserves its place in dessert history.
7. Jelly Roll Cake
Jelly Roll Cake
A visual delight, the Jelly Roll Cake is known for its elegant spiral of jam within a delicate sponge. This cake has graced tea parties and formal events with its understated beauty.
The simplicity of its preparation belies its sophisticated appearance. Each slice reveals a perfect swirl, a testament to the baker’s skill.
While it may seem quaint, the Jelly Roll Cake’s charm and versatility make it ripe for rediscovery. It’s an artistic expression of flavor and form waiting to enchant again.
8. Chiffon Cake
Chiffon Cake
The Chiffon Cake is an airy delight, bridging the gap between angel food and traditional butter cakes. Its lightness is coupled with a richness from oil-based batter, offering a unique texture.
Ideal for pairing with citrus glazes or fresh berries, it has been a canvas for creative bakers since its inception.
Despite its versatility, Chiffon Cake has quietly faded from the spotlight. Its potential for flavor experimentation and elegant presentation deserves a renewed appreciation in today’s culinary scene.
9. Wacky Cake
Wacky Cake
Born out of necessity during the Great Depression, Wacky Cake is a marvel of resourceful baking. Made without eggs, butter, or milk, it still delivers a rich, fudgy delight.
The cake’s magic lies in its simplicity and surprising depth of flavor. Its forgiving recipe became a staple in households during hard times.
Wacky Cake is a testament to creativity and ingenuity in baking. Its history and unique preparation method make it a compelling candidate for a modern-day revival, celebrating resilience and flavor.
10. Dobos Torte
Dobos Torte
Originating from Hungary, Dobos Torte is a masterpiece of layered sponge and chocolate buttercream. Its hallmark is a caramel glaze topping, adding a touch of elegance.
This cake showcases European sophistication and indulgence, offering a rich taste experience. Each layer is a journey through time and tradition.
Although not common today, Dobos Torte’s intricate preparation and exquisite flavors make it a deserving candidate for revival. Its luxurious nature invites a return to indulgent dessert experiences.
11. Gingerbread Cake
Gingerbread Cake
Gingerbread Cake is synonymous with warmth and comfort, celebrated for its aromatic spices. Its rich history dates back to ancient times, evoking memories of festive gatherings.
With hints of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses, it offers a symphony of flavors that warm the heart. The addition of a tangy lemon glaze elevates its taste profile.
Though often relegated to the holiday season, Gingerbread Cake’s ability to evoke nostalgia and delight makes it a candidate for year-round enjoyment and revival.
12. Italian Cream Cake
Italian Cream Cake
Italian Cream Cake is a Southern treasure, celebrated for its rich and nutty flavor profile. With coconut, pecans, and cream cheese frosting, it offers a decadent taste experience.
The cake’s origins are a blend of Italian and Southern culinary traditions, creating a unique fusion. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Despite its occasional appearances, Italian Cream Cake’s indulgent character and cultural significance merit a comeback. It’s a true celebration of flavor and tradition, waiting to be rediscovered.
13. Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake
Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake
Once a San Francisco favorite, Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake is a delightful combination of coffee whipped cream and honeycomb candy crunch. Its unique texture and flavor made it a legendary choice.
The cake’s light, airy nature paired with the crisp crunch of candy offers a sensory delight. It’s a nostalgic reminder of mid-century confectionary creativity.
Though its fame has waned, Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake’s innovative spirit and taste warrant a revival. It’s a sweet journey back to a time of culinary exploration.
14. Pink Champagne Cake
Pink Champagne Cake
Once a symbol of celebration, Pink Champagne Cake is light, bubbly, and elegantly tinted. It captures the essence of festivity with its subtle, sparkling flavors.
The cake’s delicate texture and hint of champagne create a unique taste that was popular at weddings and brunches. Its millennial pink hue adds a touch of whimsy.
While it has become rare, Pink Champagne Cake’s festive nature and charming appearance call for a comeback. It’s the perfect centerpiece for modern celebrations.
15. Opera Cake
Opera Cake
Opera Cake is the epitome of elegance, with its thin layers of almond sponge soaked in coffee syrup, paired with ganache and buttercream. It’s a symphony of refined flavors.
This cake hails from French patisserie, celebrated for its precise layering and luxurious taste. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures.
Though it requires skill to prepare, Opera Cake’s sophisticated appeal and timeless taste make it deserving of a revival. It’s a dessert that speaks to the art of fine baking.
16. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This cake is an iconic representation of mid-20th-century American baking. Its glossy, caramelized topping of pineapple rings and cherries is both a visual and culinary delight.
The cake’s moist texture and sweet, tangy flavors make it a timeless favorite. Each slice is a nostalgic trip to family gatherings and community potlucks.
While it may seem old-fashioned, Pineapple Upside-Down Cake’s enduring appeal and simplicity make it a perfect candidate for a comeback in today’s kitchens.
17. Shoo-Fly Cake
Shoo-Fly Cake
Inspired by its pie counterpart, Shoo-Fly Cake is a molasses-rich delight with a crumbly streusel topping. It’s a taste of Pennsylvania Dutch country, capturing rustic charm.
The cake’s deep, robust flavor is balanced by its sweet, crunchy topping. Each bite is a comforting embrace of tradition and flavor.
Though less common today, Shoo-Fly Cake’s unique taste and cultural roots make it worthy of resurgence. It’s a slice of Americana waiting to be savored again.
18. Boston Cream Pie
Boston Cream Pie
Despite its name, Boston Cream Pie is indeed a cake, renowned for its custard-filled layers and glossy chocolate glaze. It’s a dessert icon with roots in the 19th-century American culinary scene.
The cake’s contrasting textures and flavors make it a perennial favorite. Each slice offers a taste of history and indulgence.
While it may have faded from frequent menus, Boston Cream Pie’s iconic status and irresistible taste make it a perfect candidate for revival. It’s history and flavor rolled into one.