Make-Ahead Cakes for Events

Planning for a party or a big family get-together is a HUGE amount of work.

There’s so much to do, and baking a cake often feels like one task too many for the day of the event.

But what if you could have a delicious, amazing-looking cake ready to go, WITHOUT the last-minute stress?

That’s the beauty of a make-ahead cake. These are cakes you can bake a day or two before, so they’re ready when you are. SERIOUSLY.

Some cakes actually get EVEN BETTER this way. The flavors get richer, and the cake becomes perfectly moist.

I’ve put together a list of cakes that are all perfect for making in advance.

You’ll find everything from simple single-layer cakes to more impressive ones, so there’s something for any skill level.

So, take the stress out of dessert and check out these fantastic cakes for your next big event.

1. Mini Malteser Cheesecake for 2

Mini Malteser Cheesecake for 2

This no bake Mini Malteser Cheesecake for two is creamy, rich, and ready in minutes. Perfect for sharing, it’s a small batch treat packed with chocolatey Maltesers and smooth cheesecake goodness.

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2. Pumpkin Pecan Dump Cake

Pumpkin Pecan Dump Cake

This pumpkin pecan dump cake is warm, spiced, and cozy—just like fall. A small batch dessert with buttery layers, pecans, and pumpkin pie flavors, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

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3. Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe

Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe

This strawberry rhubarb dump cake brings the flavor of fresh pie into an easy, one-pan dessert. Sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb come together in a simple, comforting treat.

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4. Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake

Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake

The chocolate cherry bundt cake is rich, moist, and filled with sweet cherry pockets. Topped with homemade chocolate ganache and shavings, it’s a show-stopping dessert with every slice.

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5. Easy Strawberry Cake

Easy Strawberry Cake

This easy strawberry cake is soft, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberries. Topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s a pretty, made-ahead dessert perfect for summer gatherings.

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6. Coconut Poke Cake

Coconut Poke Cake

This coconut poke cake is light, sweet, and full of tropical flavor. Layers of yellow cake, coconut pudding, and Cool Whip make it a no-fuss favorite for coconut lovers.

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7. Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake

This lemon poke cake is moist, tangy, and refreshingly bright. Topped with lemon curd and whipped topping, it’s a simple dessert that feels special all year.

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8. Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake

This best lemon poke cake is soft, easy, and full of zesty lemon flavor. Made with a cake mix and instant pudding, it comes together in minutes and always impresses.

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9. Peach Poke Cake

Peach Poke Cake

Peach Poke Cake brings sweet, juicy peach flavor to a simple vanilla cake base.

It’s creamy, easy to make, and perfect for summer get-togethers.

Just poke holes and pour in peach pie filling for a refreshing dessert.

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10. Recipe for Eclair Cake

Recipe for Eclair Cake

Recipe for Eclair Cake uses puff pastry, homemade custard, and rich ganache for a gourmet treat.

It’s a little extra work, but totally worth it for a show-stopping dessert.

Make it ahead and enjoy every delicious layer.

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11. Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks

Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks

Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks is soft, moist, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor.

It’s a make-ahead favorite with a buttery crumb topping and easy cake mix shortcut.

Perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat.

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12. (Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake

(Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake

(Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake combines fresh or frozen rhubarb with a vanilla cake mix and butter.

It’s a low-effort dessert with a sweet-tart flavor and golden topping.

One bake and you’ve got a summer favorite ready to serve.

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13. Lemon Curd Poke Cake

Lemon Curd Poke Cake

Lemon Curd Poke Cake is bright, citrusy, and packed with zesty lemon flavor.

It’s a quick and creamy twist on classic poke cake that’s perfect for warm days.

Simple to make with a fluffy cake base and smooth lemon filling.

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14. Oreo Pound Cake

Oreo Pound Cake

Oreo Pound Cake tastes like cookies and cream in every bite.

It’s made with just a few basic ingredients and baked in a bundt pan.

This rich, moist cake is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

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15. No Bake Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes

No Bake Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes

No Bake Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes are rich, creamy, and made with Biscoff cookies and cookie butter.

Each mini dessert has a buttery base, smooth filling, and crunchy topping.

They’re no bake, easy to make, and a party favorite.

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16. No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is creamy, light, and perfect for summer.

It has a buttery biscuit base, rich vanilla cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping.

No oven needed—just chill and enjoy this easy, show-stopping dessert.

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17. Chai Cake – Chai Spice Bundt Cake Recipe with Glaze

Chai Cake - Chai Spice Bundt Cake Recipe with Glaze

This chai spice bundt cake is a moist, flavorful twist on a classic old fashioned spice cake.

The brown butter cream cheese icing pairs perfectly with the warm chai spice blend for a treat that feels extra special.

Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—either way, it’s one of the best chai cake recipes around.

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18. Pistachio Cake

Pistachio Cake

This pistachio cake brings a unique, nutty flavor that stands out from vanilla or chocolate.

It’s a light and elegant bundt that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Simple, delicious, and just the right amount of fancy.

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19. Maraschino Cherry Bundt Cake

Maraschino Cherry Bundt Cake

The maraschino cherry bundt cake combines sweet cherries with a hint of almond for a flavor that’s both fresh and comforting.

It’s easy to make using just a cake mix, so you get a delicious result without the fuss.

Perfect for birthdays or just because you want something sweet and different.

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20. Chocolate Poke Cake

Chocolate Poke Cake

This triple chocolate poke cake is rich, moist, and packed with chocolate flavor from start to finish.

The pudding layer keeps it soft and satisfying with every bite.

Chocolate lovers will find this recipe hard to resist.

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21. Chantilly Cake

Chantilly Cake

The Chantilly Cake features light vanilla layers and smooth, airy frosting that’s perfect for showing off.

Juicy fresh berries add a bright, fresh touch to every slice.

It’s an easy, elegant dessert that’s ideal for any celebration.

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22. Blueberry Dump Cake

Blueberry Dump Cake

This blueberry dump cake is so easy to make—just a few ingredients and one baking dish.

No mixing bowls or hands-on effort needed, just a sweet treat that’s ready in no time.

A perfect dessert for busy days or lazy weekends.

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23. Pistachio Poke Cake

Pistachio Poke Cake

The pistachio poke cake is a simple yet crowd-pleasing twist on a classic.

With a delicate nutty base and a creamy filling, it’s a favorite at potlucks and parties.

Easy to make and always a hit.

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24. Blackberry Swirl Cheesecake

Blackberry Swirl Cheesecake

This blackberry swirl cheesecake features a rich, creamy base with a sweet ribbon of pureed blackberries.

It’s decadent and fruity, with a smooth texture that’s perfect for any occasion.

Use fresh or frozen berries—either way, it’s a delicious year-round favorite.

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25. Boston Cream Poke Cake

Boston Cream Poke Cake

Boston Cream Poke Cake brings the classic flavor of Boston cream pie into a delicious, no-fuss cake form.

It’s a show-stopping treat with a soft cake base, custard filling, and a chocolate drizzle that makes every bite irresistible.

Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this doctored cake mix dessert is always a hit.

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