19 Desserts Every ’80s Kid Ate That Feel Forgotten Now
The 80s had a way of turning simple desserts into unforgettable childhood favorites. They popped up at sleepovers, potlucks, and weeknight dinners without much fuss.
Today, many of those once common sweets feel surprisingly rare. Bringing them back sparks memories of the snacks and treats that defined growing up in that decade.
Easy Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This easy recipe for Pineapple Upside Down Cake with a cake batter loaded with pineapple flavor features caramelized pineapples and cherries. It looks harder than it is! When making the best pineapple upside-down cake, it’s this easy, we almost feel bad calling this a recipe!
Get the Recipe:Easy Pineapple Upside-Down Cake.
Red Velvet Cake
Everyone loves red velvet cake! Our recipe can be made in a Bundt pan, 9 X 13 cake pan, or made into a layer cake. It’s even perfect for cupcakes. Top it with Ermine frosting or cream cheese icing, we’ve got the recipe for both right here!
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake.
Pig Pickin’ Cake
Everyone loves this moist pig pickin’ cake with its bright orange flavor and fluffy pineapple frosting. It is easy to make because it starts with a box of cake mix. Perfect for picnics and BBQs, even if you aren’t in the South!
Get the Recipe:Pig Pickin’ Cake.
Rainbow Cake, Light And Fruity Jello Cake
Rainbow Cake is a cherished vintage recipe that has been a family favorite for generations. Known for its bright, cheerful layers of Jello, this cake is light and refreshing—a perfect choice for hot summer parties. It’s not heavy, making it an ideal dessert that everyone can enjoy even on the warmest days.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Cake, Light And Fruity Jello Cake.
Chocolate Fudge Recipe with Bourbon
This Chocolate Fudge Recipe is so easy! This particular fudge is chock full of pecans and has a lovely hint of Kentucky bourbon!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Fudge Recipe with Bourbon.
Peanut Butter Pie
This Peanut Butter Pie is a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. With a graham cracker crust and a luscious peanut butter filling, it’s the perfect treat for peanut butter lovers. Drizzle it with chocolate syrup for an extra indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Pie.
Carrot Cake
They’ll be tempted to skip dinner and get right to dessert when you serve this moist carrot cake made from scratch and covered in rich and creamy frosting. This easy recipe can be made in a 9 X 13 pan or layered.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake.
Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake
This Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake is the same recipe that your mom or grandma made, bringing back memories with every bite. The recipe has been featured on the box of Hershey’s brand cocoa powder for nearly a century, a testament to its timeless appeal and deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake.
Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake
Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is the ultimate rich and gooey dessert for chocolate lovers. Get the easy recipe to make the best pudding cake.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake.
Frozen Lemonade Pie
Indulge in the delight of a frozen Lemonade Pie, a year-round dessert that brings the refreshing taste of summer to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Lemonade Pie.
Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake
The best lemon sour cream pound cake for any occasion! This old-fashioned lemon sour cream pound cake is moist, soft, and topped with a perfect buttery lemon icing!
Get the Recipe:Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake Recipe.
Old Fashioned Coffee Cake
Old Fashioned Coffee Cake, topped with brown sugar and cinnamon, is a wonderful treat to enjoy for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Coffee Cake.
Blackberry Crisp
Blackberry Crisp is such an easy dessert for any time of the year. A delicious way to use up lots of blackberries! Find a wild patch, and they are free!
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crisp.
Old Fashioned Fresh Apple Cake
This is the BEST old-fashioned fresh apple cake recipe and a firm family favorite. This moist and flavorful cake is bursting with as much fresh apple as I could cram into it. Nutty browned butter, walnuts, and cinnamon, with a dulce de leche topping, take it to the next level.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Fresh Apple Cake Recipe.
Peach Crumb Pie
Peach crumb pie, with its delightful blend of juicy peaches and a buttery, crunchy topping, is a summer dessert that brings people together.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumb Pie.
Jam Filled Cookies
These vintage Jam Filled Cookies feature a delectable brown sugar cut-out dough that is rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion. Generously filled with a delightful combination of nuts and your favorite jam, these cookies strike a wonderful balance between sweetness and texture. Their simplicity makes them a breeze to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy treat at home, these nostalgic cookies are sure to bring back fond memories and create new ones with every bite!
Get the Recipe:Jam Filled Cookies.
Zucchini Cake
Zucchini Cake is easy to make, delicious, and topped with a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting. You’ll love that it’s made in one bowl, is perfectly spiced, and is a great way to use up extra zucchini.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cake.
Apple Crumb Pie
Apple Crumb Pie features warmly spiced apples nestled under a buttery, crunchy crumb topping. This Dutch-style pie simplifies the classic dessert, skipping the traditional top crust for a delightful streusel that’s both easier to make and deliciously satisfying. It’s a cozy, comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumb Pie.
Blackberry Pie (Using Fresh or Frozen Berries)
This Blackberry Pie Recipe offers a sublime summer treat that’s easy to make. Its flaky crust pairs beautifully with a filling that’s just right; not too sweet, allowing the natural tartness of the blackberries to shine. It’s the perfect standout dessert for warm evenings and backyard gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Pie (Using Fresh or Frozen Berries).
