These Summer Cakes Are Worth Turning on the Oven

When the temperature rises, turning on the oven might seem like the last thing you’d want to do, but some cakes are just too good to skip. Summer is full of fresh fruit and bright flavors that make baking worth the extra warmth in the kitchen.

From fruity layers to light sponge textures, these cakes are made to match the season. They’re great for backyard gatherings, birthdays, or just a slice with your afternoon coffee.

Whether you’re after something easy or a little more detailed, these recipes are all about making summer a little sweeter. You won’t need fancy skills just a willingness to bake and enjoy.

Southern Cream Cheese Pound Cake – Old Fashioned Recipe!

This one’s a keeper if you’re into dense, buttery cakes with just the right hint of tang. The cream cheese makes it incredibly moist and rich, and it holds up perfectly for slicing. Great on its own or with a drizzle of glaze if you’re feeling extra.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cream Cheese Pound Cake – Old Fashioned Recipe!

Raspberry Buckle

A buckle is basically cake meets berries meets crumb topping, and this one nails that balance. Raspberries add a tart, juicy touch to a soft, buttery base. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but holds its own for brunch.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Buckle

Lemon Bundt Cake

Bright and citrusy, this cake delivers that fresh lemon punch without being too sharp. The glaze seeps into all the ridges of the bundt for extra flavor. It slices clean and looks just as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bundt Cake

Raspberry Dump Cake

A few pantry ingredients, one baking dish, and zero stress—this is one of those “stir and bake” kinds of desserts. The raspberries add a nice contrast to the sweet cake mix topping. Scoop it warm with some whipped cream or ice cream for extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Dump Cake

Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Think tender apple chunks, a cinnamon swirl, and a hint of tanginess from the sour cream all baked into one cozy cake. It’s the kind you’ll want with a mug of coffee on a chilly morning. The crumb topping gives it that homey finish.
Get the Recipe: Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Buttercream

This cake gets its flavor from real strawberries—not just extract or mix—so each bite has that fresh, fruity vibe. The buttercream keeps it sweet and creamy without overpowering. It’s soft, pretty, and perfect for spring or summer occasions.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Buttercream

Sweet Potato Dump Cake

A clever way to use canned or mashed sweet potatoes, this cake brings those warm fall spices together with a buttery topping. It sets up well in the oven, and the layers almost self-sauce underneath. Great with a little whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Dump Cake

No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

This chilled dessert layers chocolate and pistachio pudding with cookies or graham crackers for texture. It firms up in the fridge and slices beautifully. The combo of rich cocoa and nutty pistachio gives it a little something different.
Get the Recipe: No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

Blueberry Boy Bait

With a name like that, you know it has a story—but the cake stands on its own. It’s buttery and light, with a generous sprinkle of blueberries throughout. A simple cinnamon-sugar topping adds just enough crunch.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Boy Bait

Raspberry Chiffon Cake

Light, airy, and just sweet enough, this cake is perfect for those who like a less dense dessert. The raspberries give it a pop of color and a little tang. It looks fancy but doesn’t require complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Chiffon Cake

Gluten-free apple cake

Made with almond or oat flour, this cake still manages to stay moist and full of flavor. Chunks of apple keep it juicy while warm spices round it out. It’s a solid pick whether you avoid gluten or not.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-free apple cake

Rhubarb Cake with Streusel

Tart rhubarb and a buttery crumb topping are the stars here. The cake underneath stays soft and gently sweet, letting the rhubarb do its thing. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side works well if you’re feeling indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake with Streusel

Mountain Dew Bundt Cake

Yup, the soda is in the batter—adding moisture and a hint of citrus to the mix. It bakes up with a soft, almost fluffy texture, and the glaze on top keeps things sweet. Great for fans of lemon-lime flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mountain Dew Bundt Cake

Easy Peach Cake Recipe

This recipe keeps it simple, using canned or fresh peaches depending on what you have. The fruit sinks into the soft cake base for a baked-in topping feel. It’s lovely warm or chilled, especially with a dollop of whipped cream.
Get the Recipe: Easy Peach Cake Recipe

Gluten free cherry cobbler

Made with a gluten-free topping that crisps up nicely, this cobbler brings juicy cherries to the forefront. The filling thickens just right in the oven. It’s warm, rustic, and perfect with a little ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Gluten free cherry cobbler

Pumpkin Texas Sheet Cake

This large-format cake is ideal for gatherings, with a moist pumpkin base and smooth glaze poured over while warm. The sheet pan method makes it easy to slice and serve. You’ll taste cinnamon, nutmeg, and all the cozy flavors you expect.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Texas Sheet Cake

Coconut Cake

Sweet, fluffy layers with plenty of shredded coconut inside and out. The frosting’s creamy but not heavy, and the whole thing stays moist for days. It’s a staple for spring events or anytime you want something light and tropical.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cake

Cherry Dump Cake

This no-mixer-needed dessert uses cherry pie filling and a boxed mix for a foolproof bake. The top bakes into a golden, crisp layer while the cherries bubble underneath. Warm or cold, it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Dump Cake