Cakes to Bake and Enjoy All Summer Long

Summer is the perfect time to make treats that feel light, fresh, and full of seasonal flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want something sweet on a warm afternoon, there’s a cake that fits the moment.

Think fruity layers, chilled textures, and simple bakes that don’t require hours in a hot kitchen. From berry-filled classics to easy sheet cakes, these recipes are all about enjoying the season without stress.

Most of them use ingredients that are easy to find in summer, and many can be made ahead great for relaxed get-togethers or spontaneous cravings. It’s all about easygoing desserts that feel just right for sunny days.

Heaven on Earth Cake

This creamy dessert layers cherry pie filling, angel food cake, pudding, and whipped topping for a mix of textures in every bite. It’s a chilled, spoon-ready treat that’s perfect for hot days or potlucks. It comes together with minimal effort and is always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Heaven on Earth Cake

Frosted Lemonade Ice Cream Cake

Cool, creamy, and citrusy, this frozen cake is a refreshing twist on a classic summer drink. With layers of lemonade-flavored ice cream and a crumbly crust, it hits the sweet spot between tangy and rich. Perfect for warm-weather celebrations or just keeping it chill at home.
Get the Recipe: Frosted Lemonade Ice Cream Cake

Peach Kuchen

A cozy classic with German roots, this features sweet peaches baked over a soft, buttery base and finished with a touch of cinnamon sugar. It’s the kind of dessert that feels homemade—even when you’re using shortcuts. Great with a scoop of ice cream or your morning coffee.
Get the Recipe: Peach Kuchen

Flourless Chocolate Sheet Cake

Rich and fudgy without the flour, this cake is a go-to for chocolate fans. It’s got a dense, almost brownie-like texture that stays moist for days. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and super easy to dress up with berries or whipped cream.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Sheet Cake

Sweet Potato Dump Cake

Warm spices, mashed sweet potatoes, and a crumbly cake topping come together in a one-pan dessert that’s big on flavor and low on effort. Think of it like the comfort of pie but way easier to make. It’s especially good for fall gatherings or casual weeknight treats.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Dump Cake

Best Gluten Free Bundt Cake

This bundt cake nails the balance between soft texture and bold flavor—without a hint of dryness. Whether you’re gluten-free or not, it’s one of those cakes that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Dust it with powdered sugar or glaze it up—it holds its own either way.
Get the Recipe: Best Gluten Free Bundt Cake

Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Layers of cake, strawberry ice cream, and whipped topping make this a nostalgic favorite. It’s no-bake and freezer-friendly, which means you can prep ahead and pull it out when you need it. Kids and adults both love the fruity sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Sheet Pan Easy Berry Cake

Fresh or frozen berries bake into a soft, golden batter for a cake that looks as good as it tastes. Made in a sheet pan, it’s ideal for serving a group. It’s great on its own, but you can always add a dollop of cream or a dusting of sugar.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Easy Berry Cake

Rhubarb Dump Cake

Tart rhubarb balances out the sweetness of the cake mix topping in this one-pan wonder. It’s as easy as layering and baking—no mixing bowls required. A good option when rhubarb is in season and you want something fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Dump Cake

Raspberry Dump Cake

Juicy raspberries melt into a buttery topping for a dessert that feels both cozy and fresh. It’s a classic dump-and-bake situation, ideal for those who love fruity desserts without the work. Serve it warm or cold—it’s great either way.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Dump Cake

Strawberry Coffee Cake

A soft crumb with a hint of vanilla, layered with sweet strawberries and finished with a buttery streusel topping. It pairs perfectly with coffee but works just as well as dessert. One of those anytime cakes you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Coffee Cake

Cherry Dump Cake

This one’s all about ease—sweet cherry filling and a crumbly, buttery top, straight from the oven with minimal prep. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast at potlucks. Great with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Dump Cake

Wild Blueberries Yogurt Cake

This cake is moist, lightly sweet, and full of wild blueberries that burst with flavor. The yogurt keeps things tender and gives a nice balance. It’s perfect for brunch or a light dessert with a bit of fruit.
Get the Recipe: Wild Blueberries Yogurt Cake

Éclair Cake

Layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and chocolate topping come together in the fridge for a no-bake treat that tastes like the classic pastry. It sets up overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Super simple and always gets compliments.
Get the Recipe: Éclair Cake

Low Carb Chocolate Roulade

Light, airy, and full of cocoa flavor, this roll cake skips the sugar but keeps things rich. It’s a great option if you’re cutting carbs but still want something chocolatey and satisfying. Fill it with whipped cream, berries, or a low-carb frosting.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Chocolate Roulade

Strawberry Crunch Cake

This cake layers soft strawberry flavor with a creamy center and crunchy topping inspired by those nostalgic ice cream bars. It’s bright, fun, and just the right mix of textures. A hit for birthdays or any time you want a little extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cake

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Grated zucchini keeps this cake incredibly moist without affecting the chocolate flavor. It’s one of those recipes that surprises people—in the best way. A great excuse to use up extra zucchini and still get your chocolate fix.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Pumpkin Texas Sheet Cake

A fall twist on the classic Texas sheet cake, this version uses pumpkin and warm spices for a seasonal favorite. The icing is poured on warm and soaks in just right. It’s simple to make and easy to serve to a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Texas Sheet Cake

The Best Asian Fruit Cake: Chinese Bakery Style

Light sponge layers filled with fresh fruit and whipped cream—this cake is all about subtle sweetness and fluffy texture. It’s often served for birthdays and special events, and it’s easy to see why. Not too rich, just soft and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: The Best Asian Fruit Cake: Chinese Bakery Style

Rhubarb Cake with Streusel

A tender cake base topped with tangy rhubarb and a buttery, crunchy streusel. This one strikes a great balance between tart and sweet. It’s perfect for spring or early summer when rhubarb is everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake with Streusel