Bringing a cake to a picnic can feel… a little risky.
You worry about delicate frosting melting in the sun or the whole thing getting squished on the way to the park.
But dessert for a crowd doesn’t have to be that complicated. A good picnic cake is all about being simple and sturdy.
We’re talking about cakes that are SO easy to pack up and go.
They travel well, can be served at room temperature, and don’t need a lot of fuss to look—and taste—amazing.
I’ve put together a list of cake ideas that are PERFECT for any outdoor adventure. These recipes are simple, delicious, and practically made for eating on a blanket.
Whether you’re looking for something fruity, chocolatey, or just buttery and sweet, you’ll find an idea here for your next picnic.
1. Easy Orange Dreamsicle Cake
Easy Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a light and creamy treat with a sweet orange flavor and a tropical coconut-pineapple filling.
It’s simple to make and delivers a delicious dessert that feels like a summer day in every bite.
2. Easy Banana Cake
Easy Banana Cake is a moist and sweet dessert made with just a few ingredients and topped with fluffy banana whipped cream.
It’s the best banana cake for quick weeknight treats or weekend baking with family.
3. Chocolate Poke Cake
Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, chocolate lovers’ favorite that’s super moist and loaded with layers of flavor.
Every bite is packed with chocolate, pudding, and a hint of sweet indulgence.
4. Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake
Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake has a golden, caramelized crust and sweet pineapple slices on top.
It’s a fun twist on the classic with a denser cake texture that’s easy to love.
5. Pumpkin Dump Cake
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert that’s rich, warm, and perfect for fall.
Just dump the ingredients, bake, and enjoy soft layers with a spiced pumpkin crunch.
6. Pineapple Dump Cake
Pineapple Dump Cake is simple to make and delivers a sweet, bubbly dessert with golden edges.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks or a cozy family treat.
7. Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Banana Pudding Poke Cake combines a buttery cake base with creamy banana pudding and a sweet custard layer.
It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
8. Boston Cream Poke Cake
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a decadent twist on the classic, with a creamy filling and rich chocolate glaze.
It’s a fun, foolproof dessert that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
9. Red White and Blue Poke Cake
Red White and Blue Poke Cake is a festive dessert perfect for Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or any patriotic celebration.
The fun rainbow layers and easy-to-make recipe make it a crowd-pleaser at every holiday potluck.
10. Coconut Poke Cake
Coconut Poke Cake delivers rich, tropical flavor with just a few simple ingredients.
It’s a creamy, satisfying treat that’s quick to make and always a hit.
11. Lemon Dump Cake
Lemon Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
With just five ingredients and a bright lemon taste, it’s a sweet crowd favorite.
12. Marble Loaf Cake – Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Marble Loaf Cake with its rich, moist crumb and swirls of chocolate and vanilla is a true copycat of the Starbucks favorite.
The sour cream adds extra tenderness, making every slice irresistible.
13. Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze
Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake is a classic recipe that’s soft, rich, and perfectly sweet.
The zesty lemon glaze on top brings just the right amount of tangy balance.
14. Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes – Easy Cupcake Recipe
Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are light and fluffy with a sweet strawberry kick.
They’re topped with fluffy buttercream and a crunchy strawberry mix that adds fun texture.
15. Southern Peach Cobbler Pound Cake with Cream Cheese
Southern Peach Cobbler Pound Cake brings together ripe peaches and a buttery crumb topping in one delicious slice.
It’s a comforting dessert that tastes like summer, especially when made with fresh peaches.
16. Lemon Blackberry Cake – Moist Layer Cake Recipe
Lemon Blackberry Cake is a moist layer cake bursting with lemon zest and juicy blackberries.
The lemon curd filling and smooth blackberry frosting make it a flavor-packed treat.
17. Lavender Lemon Cupcakes
Lavender Lemon Cupcakes are a light and dreamy treat with a subtle floral touch.
The bright lemon cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the soft lavender cupcakes for a spring favorite.
18. Oreo Pound Cake Recipe (Cookies and Cream Bundt)
This Oreo Pound Cake is a rich, moist cookies and cream bundt cake that’s easy to make.
Loaded with crushed Oreos and finished with a sweet vanilla icing, it’s perfect for any celebration.
19. Mini Vanilla Cake – Easy Mini Cake Recipe
Mini Vanilla Cake is a simple and tasty small batch dessert for one or two people.
It’s easy to make without buttermilk and makes a sweet centerpiece for any small occasion.
20. Blueberry and Lemon Pound Cake Recipe with Glaze
Blueberry and Lemon Pound Cake is a soft, buttery classic with a bright citrus twist.
Topped with a simple glaze and packed with fresh blueberries, it’s ideal for summer treats.
21. Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake – Easy with Chocolate Ganache Glaze
Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake has a soft crumb and rich vanilla flavor with plenty of mini chocolate chips.
A quick, easy bake with a smooth chocolate ganache glaze that adds a touch of indulgence.
22. Strawberry Cake
Strawberry Cake is moist and packed with real strawberry flavor from fresh and freeze-dried berries.
It’s finished with a smooth strawberry frosting made from a homemade reduction.
23. Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake
Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake is a no-fuss favorite with sweet lemon and tangy blueberry layers.
It comes together fast and delivers that perfect summer dessert flavor.