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7 Versatile Cake Recipes for Any Occasion

Some cakes are perfect for more than one type of occasion, from casual events to larger celebrations. The seven versatile cake recipes below adapt effortlessly; dress them up for a party or keep them simple for an everyday indulgence. You’ll want to bake them anytime the need arises!

1. Chocolate cake

Who can resist a classic chocolate cake? Rich and moist, it’s a cake that works for a multitude of events and occasions. Whether it’s for a birthday party or to simply serve to guests in your home, this dessert is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

2. Carrot cake

A perfectly spiced carrot cake works well for more casual gatherings, such as a potluck or an Easter brunch. Simple yet irresistible, you can never go wrong with a light cake with its telltale cream cheese frosting.

3. Pound cake

You should always have a basic pound cake recipe in your arsenal for when last-minute guests stop by for a visit. Buttery and slightly dense, it goes great with coffee, as well as with a scoop of ice cream and a fruit compote.

4. Red velvet cake

More elegant than a usual layer cake, a moist red velvet cake is a wonderful choice for birthdays or graduations, but also holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Its gorgeous red hue definitely makes it festive!

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holiday desserts

Red Velvet Cake

5. Cheesecake

Cheesecake, depending on how you decorate it, can work for formal events as well as less formal ones. Keep it naked for a potluck or a casual weekend treat, or dress it up and it’ll make a great birthday cake or act as the showstopping dessert at a dinner party.

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fruit desserts

Lemon Cheesecake

6. Bundt cake

Effortlessly elegant and unfussy, Bundt cakes are perfect for potlucks, casual get-togethers or to simply welcome guests in your home. Its beautiful shape needs minimal decoration–especially if you go with a marbled look like the recipe below; a simple icing or glaze will suffice.

7. Coffee cake

Coffee cake is a versatile treat, perfect for packing for a picnic, sharing with visitors over a coffee (hence the name!) or to just enjoy as a snack. Its tender crumb and cinnamon streusel make it an inviting indulgence, anytime and anywhere.

For more cake ideas, be sure to consult our selection of recipes: