Family Gathering Cake Recipes

Let’s be real, the cake is often the star of a family gathering.

It’s the grand finale to the meal, the thing EVERYONE is waiting for.

Picking the right cake can feel like a BIG decision. You want something that tastes amazing but doesn’t take all day to make.

A great homemade cake just makes the whole day feel more special.

That’s why I’ve gathered some of the best cake recipes that are perfect for sharing.

You’ll find everything from rich chocolate cakes to light and fruity ones. There are super simple options for beginners and some fancier bakes for when you feel like a challenge.

There’s a cake here for EVERY occasion and for every type of baker.

1. Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is a festive 4th of July favorite that’s easy to make with just a box of cake mix.

The vibrant layers of red, white, and blue come together in a sweet, punchy treat perfect for summer cookouts and patriotic gatherings.

Get the Recipe

2. Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is a show-stopping, two-tiered dessert with rich red cocoa and a smooth cream cheese frosting.

It’s beautifully bold and delicious, ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration that calls for extra flair.

Get the Recipe

3. Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Pineapple Upside Down Cake delivers a sweet, buttery topping and a moist, golden cake base everyone loves.

It’s a classic favorite with a perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and tropical flavor.

Get the Recipe

4. Mini Red Velvet Cake

Mini Red Velvet Cake

Mini Red Velvet Cake brings all the rich, velvety taste of a big red velvet cake in a cute, bite-sized format.

These tiny treats are perfect for parties, sharing, or enjoying a little indulgence without the fuss.

Get the Recipe

5. Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake is a bright and juicy twist on a classic cake, made simple with a cake mix and tropical flair.

It’s a refreshing dessert that adds something fun and zesty to any table.

Get the Recipe

6. Lemon Coconut Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Coconut Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Coconut Poppy Seed Cake is a light, zesty, and slightly tropical treat with a tender crumb and fresh flavor.

It’s a go-to for spring and summer gatherings, full of sunshine in every bite.

Get the Recipe

7. 7UP Sheet Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

7UP Sheet Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

7UP Sheet Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting is a tender, moist white cake topped with a sweet and fruity frosting.

This family-friendly dessert is perfect for summer cookouts and quick celebrations.

Get the Recipe

8. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes are warm, spiced, and rich—made with a cake mix but tasting like they took all day to bake.

They’re a fall essential, great for snacks, parties, or cozy season celebrations.

Get the Recipe

9. Easy Apple Coffee Cake

Easy Apple Coffee Cake

Easy Apple Coffee Cake is a cozy autumn dessert that’s simple to make with just a few pantry staples.

The soft, sweet swirl of apples and cinnamon makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime.

Get the Recipe

10. Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is a no-fuss summer dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Sweet pineapple chunks and gooey brown sugar come together on top of a simple cake mix base.

Get the Recipe

11. Chocolate Pistachio Cake

Chocolate Pistachio Cake

Chocolate Pistachio Cake is a rich and slightly nutty treat that’s been loved by my family for generations.

This easy cake mix recipe brings together chocolate and pistachios in a way that’s perfect for any occasion.

Get the Recipe

12. Firecracker Cupcakes

Firecracker Cupcakes

Firecracker Cupcakes are a festive and fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Bright red, white, and blue colors make them a crowd-pleasing addition to any outdoor celebration.

Get the Recipe

13. Oreo Dirt Cake

Oreo Dirt Cake

Oreo Dirt Cake is a no-bake favorite that’s easy to assemble and always a hit at parties.

layers of Oreo cookies, creamy pudding, and a touch of banana create a rich, satisfying dessert.

Get the Recipe

14. Easy Ice Cream Cake

Easy Ice Cream Cake

Easy Ice Cream Cake is a customizable no-bake dessert that’s great for birthdays, BBQs, or any summer gathering.

Choose your favorite cake, ice cream, and filling to make it truly your own.

Get the Recipe

15. Caramel Apple Poke Cake

Caramel Apple Poke Cake

Caramel Apple Poke Cake combines the comforting taste of apples and cinnamon with a rich caramel twist.

This quick and easy cake mix recipe delivers a moist, dessert-like treat that’s perfect for fall.

Get the Recipe

16. Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake

Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent treat with a creamy peanut butter filling and chocolatey layers.

It’s simple to make and always a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations.

Get the Recipe

17. Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake delivers rich spice and sweet warmth in every slice.

Made with simple ingredients like sour cream and instant vanilla pudding, it’s a showstopper that’s easy to whip up.

Get the Recipe

18. Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake is soft, moist, and topped with a buttery crumb layer you’ll love.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.

Get the Recipe

19. Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Chocolate Raspberry Cake is a decadent two-layer dessert with a vibrant raspberry filling.

Each bite mixes rich chocolate with a burst of fruity sweetness.

Get the Recipe

20. Lemon Loaf Cake

Lemon Loaf Cake

Lemon Loaf Cake is delightfully moist with a bright, tangy lemon flavor.

Finished with a simple, zesty lemon icing that makes it irresistible.

Get the Recipe

21. Marble Loaf Cake

Marble Loaf Cake

Marble Loaf Cake has a soft, slightly dense crumb with classic swirls of vanilla and chocolate.

A timeless treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

Get the Recipe

22. Easy Orange Dreamsicle Cake

Easy Orange Dreamsicle Cake

Easy Orange Dreamsicle Cake is light, fluffy, and packed with citrus and coconut flavor.

Layered with a creamy pineapple-coconut filling for a fun, tropical twist.

Get the Recipe

23. Lemon Bundt Cake

Lemon Bundt Cake

Lemon Bundt Cake brings back the comforting taste of a classic lemon pound cake.

Soft, buttery, and topped with a sweet lemon glaze.

Get the Recipe

24. Yellow Cake Recipe

Yellow Cake Recipe

Yellow Cake Recipe makes a tender, buttery layer cake that’s perfect with chocolate buttercream.

Simple to make and always a crowd favorite.

Get the Recipe