Make One of These Cakes Before Summer Slips Away

Summer’s not over yet, and there’s still time to enjoy something sweet before the season changes. These cakes are all about fresh flavors and simple steps nothing too fussy, just really good.

From fruit-filled layers to chilled no-bake options, there’s something here for whatever kind of day you’re having. Some are great for a last-minute backyard hangout, others work well as a weekend project.

They’re a fun way to use what’s in season and bring a little joy to your table. So if you’ve been thinking about baking something before the weather shifts, now’s a good time.

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

This cake brings warm spices and pumpkin together in a moist, tender crumb that’s perfect for cooler days. It’s got just the right amount of sweetness, and the bundt shape gives it a classic look with minimal fuss. A simple glaze or dusting of powdered sugar is all it needs to impress.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Lemon Bundt Cake

Bright and full of citrus flavor, this cake is light and soft with a gentle tartness that balances out the sweetness. It holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for special gatherings or just a weekend treat. A lemon glaze on top adds a glossy finish and extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bundt Cake

Chocolate Fudge Cake

Rich and deeply chocolatey, this cake leans on its dense, moist texture to create an indulgent feel. It’s a classic option for any chocolate lover who prefers a more intense bite. A layer of ganache or whipped cream makes it even more appealing.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Fudge Cake

Red Velvet Cake

Known for its deep red hue and creamy layers, this cake stands out with a subtle cocoa flavor. It pairs perfectly with a tangy cream cheese frosting that cuts through the sweetness. Great for celebrations or just when you’re in the mood for something a little special.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

Lemon Pudding Cake

Light on top, creamy at the bottom — this cake separates into layers as it bakes, making each spoonful a pleasant surprise. The lemon flavor is soft but refreshing. It’s one of those desserts that feels both simple and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pudding Cake

Banana Caramel Cake

Sweet ripe bananas meet gooey caramel in this cake that’s incredibly moist and comforting. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast at gatherings. The caramel drizzle adds just enough richness without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Banana Caramel Cake

Flourless Chocolate Cake

Smooth and dense, this cake is all about chocolate in its purest form. With no flour involved, it leans into a fudgy texture that’s both simple and bold. Great for anyone who wants a dessert without the extras.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cake

Molten Chocolate Cakes

Each cake hides a gooey center that flows out when you cut into it — part of the charm. They’re individually sized, which makes them feel a bit more personal. Best served warm with a scoop of something cold on the side.
Get the Recipe: Molten Chocolate Cakes

Cannoli Cake

All the flavors of a cannoli, but in cake form — creamy filling, a hint of citrus, and just the right texture. It’s layered to give each bite a mix of soft cake and ricotta-based frosting. A sprinkle of chocolate chips or pistachios finishes it off nicely.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cake

Strawberry Shortcake

Layers of soft cake, whipped cream, and juicy strawberries make this a go-to for warmer days. It’s light, fresh, and not overly sweet. The kind of dessert that looks fancy but feels easy.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake

Heaven on Earth Cake

This is a layered dessert with cake, pudding, and fruit that feels like something you’d find at a potluck — easy, familiar, and always gone by the end. It’s creamy, light, and chilled for a refreshing finish. Great make-ahead option too.
Get the Recipe: Heaven on Earth Cake

Shirley Temple Cake

This one has a bit of fun to it — flavored with cherry and lemon-lime soda for a nostalgic twist. The bright pink glaze and soft crumb make it as cheerful as it is tasty. Perfect for birthdays or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Shirley Temple Cake

Boston Cream Pie Cake

A fluffy yellow cake with a smooth pastry cream center and a glossy chocolate topping. It’s got that classic bakery-style appeal but isn’t overly complicated. The contrast in textures is what makes it memorable.
Get the Recipe: Boston Cream Pie Cake

Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake

This cake gets its rich texture from the cola, with chocolate and buttermilk rounding it out. It’s super moist and has an old-fashioned charm. Best served warm with a thick frosting poured right on top.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake

Éclair Cake

No baking required — just layers of graham crackers, creamy pudding, and chocolate frosting that softens everything together. After a few hours in the fridge, it all comes together like a chilled eclair in sliceable form. Great for when you need something quick but still impressive.
Get the Recipe: Éclair Cake

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

The zucchini keeps it incredibly moist without making it taste like vegetables — you’d hardly know it’s in there. Rich in chocolate flavor and great for using up extra produce. You can leave it plain or frost it for something extra.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Brownie Peanut Butter Mousse Cakes

Combining a dense brownie base with fluffy peanut butter mousse makes for a layered treat that’s rich but balanced. You get that fudgy chew with a creamy top — hard to beat that combo. They work great as mini desserts too.
Get the Recipe: Brownie Peanut Butter Mousse Cakes

Flourless Chocolate Sheet Cake

Big on flavor, light on ingredients — this cake is a great option for feeding a crowd. It’s got that dense chocolate texture without being overly heavy. Works well with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Sheet Cake

Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake

This one combines spiced pumpkin cake with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect with coffee or tea. It’s got that crumbly texture on top that everyone always digs for first. Good for mornings, but honestly, it works any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake

Raspberry Dump Cake

Minimal effort, lots of flavor — just layer everything in the pan and bake. The fruit cooks down beautifully while the top forms a golden crust. Great with ice cream or just on its own.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Dump Cake

Oreo Poke Cake

Rich chocolate cake meets crushed Oreos and creamy pudding, all soaked in for extra flavor. Each bite is soft, sweet, and packed with cookie bits. A whipped topping finish keeps it from feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Poke Cake