29 Southern Desserts That Had Me Feeling Like I Was At A Family Reunion

There’s a certain chaos to a family reunion: kids running wild, aunties giving side-eyes, and someone claiming they invented banana pudding. That’s exactly what these 29 Southern classics bring. They stir up nostalgia, competition, and the occasional fork fight. They don’t just finish the meal, they win it, every time, without even trying to behave.

Blueberry Cheesecake

Creamy layers mixed with a fruity touch make Blueberry Cheesecake a dessert worth repeating. The smooth texture blends perfectly with the sweet and tangy topping, creating a perfect balance in every bite. This is a dish that feels special enough for gatherings but simple enough to enjoy whenever you want.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Peach Cobbler

Peach Cobbler is one of those desserts that feels like it’s straight out of a family recipe box. The soft filling pairs perfectly with a slightly crisp topping, making it great for serving with something chilled on the side. It’s easy to scoop and share, which makes it perfect for big groups. Always a hit, this cobbler sticks around for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Pineapple Casserole

Combining sweet and savory in a surprising way, Pineapple Casserole can take center stage at a dessert table. It’s got layers of texture that make every bite feel complete. The unexpected mix of flavors turns this simple dish into something that always gets talked about. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a standout.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Pecan Pie Cobbler

Rich flavors and gooey textures make Pecan Pie Cobbler a dessert to remember. The topping brings in a bit of crunch while the filling stays soft and sweet. It’s the kind of dish that works well for potlucks or after-meal desserts at home. There’s no fuss with serving, and it feels like a comforting treat every time.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Homemade Bread Pudding

Soft, warm, and comforting, Homemade Bread Pudding is all about texture and flavor combined. The dish holds together perfectly while giving you chewy, golden edges in every bite. It’s excellent on its own or when served with something sweet poured over the top. This simple dessert is always worth the small effort it takes to make.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie has that classic flavor that keeps it coming back to dinner tables. The filling is smooth and rich, while the crust adds just the right bite for balance. It’s a simple dessert that feels connected to long-standing traditions. Perfect with a cup of coffee or on its own, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Blueberry Cobbler

Bubbly and fruity with a golden top, Blueberry Cobbler is a dessert that never gets old. The balance of juicy berries and crispy topping creates a dish that feels hearty yet simple. Easy to serve for family or guests, it works well for any kind of get-together. Add a scoop of something creamy on top, and it’s even better.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cobbler

Lemon Pound Cake

Soft yet dense, Lemon Pound Cake hits the right spot between sweet and citrusy. It holds its shape well, making it perfect for slicing and serving at gatherings. On its own or paired with something light on the side, it’s a versatile treat for any occasion. The balance of flavor and texture makes it hard not to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Easy Banana Pudding

Creamy and layered, Easy Banana Pudding is a dessert everyone seems to love. The soft textures and classic flavors come together for a simple yet rewarding dish. It’s easy to make ahead and perfect for big groups or snacking on later. Once on the table, there isn’t likely to be much left after everyone’s had a scoop.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Rhubarb Crisp

Rhubarb Crisp balances soft fruit with a crunchy topping in the best way. It’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys bold flavors in their desserts without them feeling too heavy. Serve it warm or chilled—it works either way and is great with another layer of sweetness on top. This crisp is one that surprises in the best possible way.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

For a quick yet impressive dessert, No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake keeps things simple without losing flavor. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the fruity topping, making it perfect for gatherings or everyday enjoyment. It’s light but still rich enough to hold its place on any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Bite-sized and packed with sweetness, Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites are great for sharing or snacking. The lightly crisp outside gives way to a soft center, making them hard to resist. Perfect for quick gatherings or even as a breakfast treat, they hit the mark every time. These are the kind of bites you’ll find disappearing fast from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A mix of salty, sweet, and creamy defines Strawberry Pretzel Salad, making every layer stand out. The crunchy base contrasts beautifully with the light filling and fruity top. It’s always a big hit at gatherings thanks to its unique combination. Once you’ve tried it, it’s easy to see why this dish often comes back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Chocolate Ice Cream

Chocolate Ice Cream is a timeless dessert that’s easy to enjoy any time. It’s smooth in texture and has just enough sweetness to leave you wanting more. Whether added to another dessert or scooped into a cone, it always delivers. There’s a reason this classic holds its spot at the top of dessert lists everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Ice Cream

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Combining familiar southern flavors with a twist, Pecan Pie Cheesecake brings two dessert worlds together. The creamy base balances out the crunch from the pecan topping, making each bite layered and interesting. It’s a showstopper for gatherings or anytime you want to serve something a bit different. Rich but not too heavy, it’s a dish to remember.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Banana Bread

Soft and moist, Banana Bread is a go-to recipe for using simple ingredients in the best way possible. It’s perfect on its own or toasted with a little extra sweetness added on top. This bread stays fresh for days, making it great to bake ahead and enjoy throughout the week. A classic for a reason, this recipe seems to fit into any setting.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream is a flexible dessert that works with almost everything. It’s rich enough to eat alone but subtle enough to pair with other dishes. Scoop it onto cobblers, cakes, or pies, and it blends beautifully without stealing the show. Always a reliable addition to dessert plans, it never feels out of place.
Get the Recipe: Vanilla Ice Cream

Coconut Cream Pie

Smooth and slightly sweet, Coconut Cream Pie makes a perfect choice for any dessert table. The creamy filling balances out the golden crust, creating a bite with just the right mix of textures. It’s great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying in smaller portions over time. This pie has that classic flavor that doesn’t feel overly heavy but still leaves an impact.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie

Apple Crisp

Blends soft fruit with a perfectly baked topping that sticks together nicely. Apple Crisp is easy to scoop and serve, which makes it great for both family dinners and bigger get-togethers. Add a cool topping, and it becomes an even bigger crowd-pleaser. This simple dessert holds up well, whether warm out of the oven or saved for later.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Juicy fruit and a soft cake base come together in Pineapple Upside Down Cake, creating a dessert that looks stunning and tastes just as good. The caramelization at the top adds just the right level of sweetness to balance the flavor. Slice after slice, it showcases great texture and plenty of bold flavor. This cake has been a favorite for years, and it’s easy to see why.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Grape Salad

Simple yet refreshing, Grape Salad combines juicy fruit with a rich, creamy base for a dessert that’s both unexpected and welcomed. The contrasting textures make every bite interesting and unique. Great for potlucks or everyday meals, it’s an easy dish that can be prepped quickly. You’ll be surprised how often people go back for seconds once they try it.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Peanut Butter Cake

Rich with a nutty flavor, Peanut Butter Cake is the kind of dessert that works for all ages. The cake stays moist while providing the perfect platform for any topping you might decide to add. It’s easy to bake and store, making it great for sharing or saving for later. This cake is a simple solution whenever you’re craving dessert with bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Dairy Free Ice Cream

Creamy enough to rival the classic, Dairy Free Ice Cream offers a lighter alternative while staying full of rich flavor. The smooth texture doesn’t feel like it’s missing anything, making it a great choice for anyone avoiding dairy. Perfect on its own or as part of other desserts, it keeps things flexible.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

Strawberry Shortcake

Soft cake, whipped layers, and fresh fruit are what make Strawberry Shortcake a favorite across any table. The flavors stack neatly, giving each bite a balance of sweetness and texture. It’s easy to assemble but still feels like something special every time it’s served. This dessert works well for any occasion, from big celebrations to casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake

Kool Aid Pie

Bright and colorful, Kool Aid Pie is a fun dessert that stands out for its unique flavor. The smooth filling and simple crust make it super easy to enjoy and serve. Its bold and sweet flavor makes it feel like a treat from childhood brought back to life. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you need something quick with a lot of character.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Apple Cobbler

Juicy baked fruit with a golden crust makes Apple Cobbler a familiar and comforting dessert option. The crust-to-fruit ratio hits the mark, creating a dish with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s simple to serve and pairs beautifully with a scoop of something cold on top. This cobbler is one you’ll always find people coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Carrot Cake

Rich spices and a moist texture make Carrot Cake one of those classic desserts that fits any occasion. The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness that balances the heartiness of the cake itself. It’s great for slicing neatly or enjoying in larger pieces when shared with others. Whether for a party or an afternoon snack, it’s hard to go wrong with this favorite.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Mississippi Mud Pie

Layers of creamy, chocolatey richness make Mississippi Mud Pie a standout dessert for those who love indulgence. The crunchy base adds a bit of texture to contrast the softer, smoother layers on top. It’s a perfect choice for potlucks or anytime you’re in the mood for something bold. Each slice is packed with enough flavor to keep everyone wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Cinnamon Roll Cake

With its gooey layers and sweet topping, Cinnamon Roll Cake feels like a mix of dessert and comfort food. The soft texture soaks up the sugary glaze, keeping each bite rich but not overwhelming. It’s a dessert that works just as well for breakfast as it does for after meals. Once it’s sliced and served, it’s hard to put the fork down.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Cake