Sweeten The Moment With 29 Southern Recipes Worth Sharing

These don’t need tweaks, trends, or makeovers—they’re good the way they are. 29 recipes from the South that remind everyone why simple food and good company just work. It’s less about impressing and more about making sure nobody leaves hungry. Seconds are basically a rule.

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cinnamon Roll Cake

Close-up of a cinnamon roll cake slice topped with icing and sprinkled with cinnamon on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you love pastries for breakfast but want something you can share with the whole group, this is it. Right in the center of our chat is that sweet swirl of cinnamon, Cinnamon Roll Cake, which you might find perfect for a group brunch. It brings the comforting flavor you know from classic cinnamon rolls but in a more communal form.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Cake

Pecan Pie Cobbler

Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo Credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes
Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Picture a gathering where you want to impress everyone with a Southern twist on a classic dessert. You’ll find that Pecan Pie Cobbler marries the gooey richness of pecan pie with the comforting feel of a cobbler. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone feel at home and is fit for a large crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Grape Salad

Homemade fresh grape salad in a serving bowl with walnuts scattered on top.
Grape Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a side dish that’s different from your standard fare and will have folks asking for the recipe? Enter Grape Salad, a unique blend of juicy fruits and creamy dressing that’s both refreshing and a bit indulgent. It’s a breeze to whip up for any event and tends to surprise people with its combination of textures.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Close-up of Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites, dusted in a sweet layer and piled on crisp white paper.
Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes you just need a small bite of something sweet without the fuss of making a full dessert. Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites are your answer, with their effortless preparation and irresistible pull-apart appeal. They’re perfect for grabbing on the go or when you have a casual crowd to feed.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Close-up of a slice of fruit pie with a golden, flaky crust. The filling is a mix of pink and red fruit, slightly oozing out onto the plate.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’ve got a yearning for something that’s both sweet and tart and looks stunning on a plate, what springs to mind? That’s right, Strawberry Rhubarb Pie comes into play for a dessert that combines two dynamic flavors. Its color alone makes it a centerpiece at any table, and it’s always a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A slice of pineapple cake topped with fresh raspberries on a white surface.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re after a show-stopper that’s got a tropical twist and looks as good as it tastes, think no further. With its caramelized fruit topping, Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a crowd-pleaser that brings a bit of sunshine to the end of any meal. Serve this up and watch the smiles as the cake flips and the glossy pineapple rings come into view.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you want something sweet without all the hassle, something that brings back warm memories of family dinners. Easy Banana Pudding fits the bill, offering a no-fuss dessert that can be whipped up in no time. It’s layers of creamy, fruity goodness that never fail to make people feel like they’re part of the family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Rhubarb Pie

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Are you in search of something a little different that has a bold, tart flavor to cut through the mundane? That’s the perfect cue for Rhubarb Pie, a dessert that isn’t shy about its tangy profile. It’s a conversation piece, especially for those unfamiliar with rhubarb’s distinct tang.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

Apple Cobbler

A baked apple cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, partially served in a dish.
Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a dessert that smells like comfort and feels like home, an all-American classic comes to mind. Apple Cobbler is the heartwarming dish that fills the room with an inviting aroma and, once served, brings a sense of nostalgia. It’s all about the sweet and soft fruit with a biscuit-like crust that’s perfect for scooping up warmly.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Carrot Cake

Close-up of sliced carrot cake loaf with visible nuts and raisins on a parchment paper, topped with a light icing drizzle.
Carrot Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you crave a dessert that feels a tad more substantial and slightly spiced, here’s one that might do the trick. With its rich texture and comforting spices, Carrot Cake is a solid choice for any occasion. It strikes the perfect balance between dessert and that hint of vegetable goodness.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie with a swirl of cream on it.
Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Are you all about the classics but want to switch things up a bit from the usual suspects? Take a Southern staple, Sweet Potato Pie, and you’ve got just the right amount of sweet and earthy flavors. It stands out with its own distinct vibe, making it a memorable dessert choice.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks.
Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those afternoons when a cup of coffee needs the perfect partner, or when the kids come home hungry, here’s an option. Banana Bread is that sweet, moist loaf that’s as suitable for breakfast as it is for an afternoon nibble. It wraps up the comfort of ripe bananas in a sliceable form.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background.
Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bet you’re looking for a talking point at your next casual gathering, something that might even take you back to childhood. Kool Aid Pie is as playful and colorful as you’d expect with a name like that. It’s quick to prepare and can be made in various flavors, making it both versatile and a fun dessert.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

A close-up of a baked pastry ring dusted with powdered sugar, featuring multiple layers of golden-brown, flaky dough and hints of cinnamon apple strudel slices peeking through.
Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Want to offer a classic European pastry with a Southern spin to your friends and family? Let’s not forget about Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices – thin layers of pastry filled with sweet fruit and that beloved spice. They’re elegant, yet so simple, making anyone feel sophisticated when they bite into one.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who go nuts over peanut butter, here’s one that’s hearty, sweet, and makes you think of your favorite childhood sandwich. Peanut Butter Cake is a hit, blending that rich, creamy flavor with the softness of cake. It tends to be a favorite for those who aren’t as keen on chocolate but still want a dessert that’s full of character.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Cinnamon Pie

A slice of cinnamon pie on a cake slice over the remaining pie.
Cinnamon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thinking about something warmly spiced but in a less traditional pie form? Cinnamon Pie is a standout with its single spice focus that’s both simple and profound. This pie is less about the fruit and more about the warm, comforting aroma that cinnamon brings.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Pie

Apple Crisp

Close-up of apple crumble with oats and brown sugar topping. A spoon is partially visible on the left.
Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a no-fuss dessert that can easily serve a crowd with the warmth and comfort of baked fruit, look no further. Apple Crisp brings together tender fruit under a crumbly, sweet topping that’s simply irresistible. It’s a go-to for those impromptu get-togethers where you want to serve something that feels special but is incredibly easy to pull off.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

Coconut Cream Pie

A slice of coconut cream pie on a plate.
Coconut Cream Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re a fan of tropical flavors and dreamy, creamy fillings, here’s a dessert you’d rave about. Coconut Cream Pie is all about that lush, velvety texture and the fragrant punch of coconut. It’s a refreshing departure from the heavier chocolate and caramel-based desserts.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie

Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate.
Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine a dessert that’s a splendid use of leftover bread and transforms it into something warm and comforting. Homemade Bread Pudding is just that, a cozy dessert that’s thick, custard-like, and perfect for sharing. It’s one of those hearty desserts that can be dressed up or down and never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Love the signature spiral of cinnamon rolls but also have a soft spot for classic pie? Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie offers the best of both, combining the aesthetic of a roll with the heartiness of a pie. It’s fun to see someone’s face light up when they realize they’re getting two favorite desserts in one.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Lemon Pound Cake

Sliced lemon cake with glaze on parchment paper, next to lemon slices.
Lemon Pound Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those who appreciate citrus notes and dense, moist cakes, here’s a bright and sunny option to cheer up any table. Lemon Pound Cake boasts a vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness of the cake. It’s perfect for those who want something a bit lighter in flavor but still enjoyably indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fans of chocolate will likely be looking for something outrageously indulgent and perfectly themed for an over-the-top dessert craving. That’s when Mississippi Mud Pie comes into play, a layered creation that’s as rich and dark as the Southern soil it’s named after. It’s a mighty dessert that isn’t afraid to be the center of attention at any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Cinnamon Applesauce

A jar labeled
Cinnamon Applesauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re after something sweet but with the wholesomeness of fruit, why not turn to a versatile choice that’s both a treat and a snack? Cinnamon Applesauce – homemade and warming with that familiar spice. It’s a side dish that can complement any meal or can be enjoyed just by itself.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine combining the nutty and sweet luxury of a classic Southern pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Pecan Pie Cheesecake does just that, creating a dessert with multiple layers of texture and flavor. It’s something that cheesecake lovers and pecan pie aficionados can both get excited about.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A dessert with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, a layer of red gelatin, topped with a whipped cream dollop and a strawberry slice, on a white plate with a spoon.
Strawberry Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a unique dessert that breaks the mold and balances sweet, salty, and a bit of crunch, consider something out of the ordinary. Strawberry Pretzel Salad offers a combination that might catch some by surprise but wins over the skeptical with its layers of texture and taste. Sharing it is as much about the experience as it is about enjoying the dish.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole in a casserole dish with a serving spoon in it.
Pineapple Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ready for a side dish that doubles as a conversation piece and offers up a sweet and tasty experience? Pineapple Casserole is exactly that, breaking the boundaries of traditional casseroles with its tropical twist. It’s not your typical casserole, and that’s exactly what makes sharing it so interesting.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Apple Dump Cake

Close-up of an apple crumble dessert with a golden crust, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, and a spoon placed inside the dish.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a casual and ridiculously easy dessert that practically makes itself, one option springs to mind. Apple Dump Cake is the no-mixer-needed, pour-and-bake variety that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat. It’s the kind of dessert you turn to when time is tight, but you still want to make a sweet impression.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

Rhubarb Crisp

A baked dessert with a crumbly brown topping and red filling sits in a dish, with a portion served in a separate bowl. Spoons are present in both the dish and the bowl.
Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If the tang of rhubarb combined with a crunchy, sweet topping sounds appealing, then here’s a dessert to remember. Rhubarb Crisp is a less common but no less appreciated take on the typical fruit crisp. It’s perfect for those who like a dessert with a bit of bite to it.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp

Peach Cobbler

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Last but certainly not least, when you’re craving something quintessentially Southern and absolutely rewarding, a classic comes to mind. Peach Cobbler is adored for its juicy fruit filling and soft, doughy crust that’s a bit of heaven in every spoonful. It’s like a warm hug in dessert form, always welcome at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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