Let’s talk about some old-school desserts that are pure comfort food.
I’m talking about creamy pudding pies, quirky dessert salads, and cakes that are total classics.
Some of these might remind you of your childhood—maybe your grandma made them!
Others might be totally new to you, or maybe they were popular before your time.
A few of these retro treats are still around today, while others have kind of faded into the background.
But here’s the thing: whether these desserts spark nostalgia or are brand new to you, they’re all worth trying.
Next time you’re craving something sweet and timeless, give one of these recipes a go.
Trust me, they’re like a delicious hug from the past!
15. Molasses Cookies
The taste of molasses takes me right back to my grandma’s kitchen.
These cookies are packed with molasses, sour cream, brown sugar, raisins, and a mix of spices for a rich, nostalgic flavor.
14. Old-Fashioned Peach Cobbler
This cobbler is all about fresh peaches and a buttery biscuit topping.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and it’s pure perfection.
13. Florentine Cookies
Florentines are more like caramel candy than cookies.
They’re made by baking homemade caramel until it’s thin and bubbly.
A drizzle of melted chocolate makes them an indulgent treat for any occasion.
12. Million Dollar Pie
If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re missing out.
It’s a mix of cream cheese, pineapple, and pecans in a graham cracker crust.
Simple, yet absolutely delicious.
11. Ice Cream Bread
This retro dessert uses melted ice cream for sweetness and flavor.
I love making it with Nutty Butter bars and Nutty Bars ice cream for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
Feel free to use your favorite ice cream flavor, though!
10. Watergate Salad
This green dessert has been a hit since the 70s.
It’s a mix of pistachio flavor, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping.
It’s super easy to make, and you can tweak it to fit your dietary needs.
9. Banana Pudding
Banana pudding is a classic that never goes out of style.
This version layers homemade vanilla pudding with Nilla Wafers and fresh bananas.
Pro tip: Let it sit overnight for the best results.
8. Wacky Cake
This cake got its name during the Great Depression when eggs were scarce.
It’s mixed right in the pan and uses vinegar, oil, and water for a fluffy texture.
It’s a quirky but delicious chocolate cake.
7. Classic Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia salad brings back memories of potlucks and family gatherings.
It’s a simple mix of canned fruit, marshmallows, coconut, pecans, and Cool Whip.
The flavors get better the longer it sits.
6. Old-Fashioned Caramel Cake
This cake is moist and buttery with a caramel frosting that’s almost like fudge.
It’s the perfect dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
5. Grandma’s Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Yes, mayonnaise is in this cake!
It adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes it incredibly tasty.
Trust me, it’s way better than it sounds.
4. Grandma’s Caramel Sticky Buns
Move over, cinnamon rolls—these caramel sticky buns are the real deal.
They’re made with a sweet yeast dough, cinnamon sugar, and a sticky caramel pecan topping.
They’re finger-licking good!
3. Sour Cream Pound Cake
Sour cream is the key to this dense and moist pound cake.
It’s delicious on its own or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream.
2. 7UP Pound Cake
This cake has been a favorite since the 50s.
The lemon-lime soda gives it a light, fluffy texture.
The glaze also includes soda for an extra zing.
1. Southern Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk pie is a custard pie with a hint of lemon.
It’s a timeless classic that deserves more attention.
Perfect for any occasion!
