The 1970s were a decade of culinary exploration and decadence, where desserts were not just a treat but an experience. From brightly colored jello creations to the rich and creamy indulgences, the desserts of the 70s hold a special place in our hearts and taste buds. This blog post invites you to revisit those vibrant years with a collection of 25 iconic retro desserts that defined the era. Each dessert tells a story of flavor, nostalgia, and the joy of culinary creativity. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey back in time!
1. Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Don’t let the name fool you! Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a surprisingly moist dessert that became popular in the 70s. The addition of mayonnaise may sound unusual, but it results in a cake that’s incredibly rich and tender. This cake’s deep chocolate flavor is complemented by a luscious frosting, making it a dream for chocolate lovers. Its simple yet decadent taste has made it a beloved classic over the decades. Perfect for any retro celebration, this cake pairs wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk, embodying the essence of traditional comfort food.
2. Chiffon Pie
Chiffon Pie was the epitome of lightness and elegance. With a fluffy filling made from whipped cream and beaten egg whites, it offered a delightful contrast to heavier desserts. The pie came in various flavors, which gave it different colors and a different, yet familiar taste.
The crust was typically made from graham crackers, providing a crunchy base to the airy filling. The pie was often garnished with a dollop of whipped cream. Chiffon Pie was perfect for those seeking a lighter option. Its refreshing taste and texture made it a beloved treat during the warmer months.
3. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A staple dessert in many households was Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. With its caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, it brought a tropical flair to everyday life. The cake itself was moist and buttery, contrasting beautifully with the sticky, sweet topping.
The preparation involved a simple yet ingenious technique of baking the cake upside down. Once turned upright, the cake revealed a stunningly glazed top. This dessert was not only delicious but also a visual delight, perfectly capturing the playful essence of 70s baking.
4. Banana Foster
Bananas Foster was a dessert that brought theatrics to the dinner table. Originating from New Orleans, it became a popular choice during the 70s for its dramatic preparation. Sliced bananas were cooked in a buttery caramel sauce, often with a splash of rum, then flambéed to perfection. The mixture was served over vanilla ice cream, creating a warm-cold contrast that delighted the senses. Bananas Foster wasn’t just about flavor; it was an experience, capturing the adventurous spirit of the decade.
5. Black Forest Cake
Layers of rich chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries made the Black Forest Cake a luxurious treat. The cake’s origins are German, but it became a beloved dessert worldwide during this era. Bakers would often add a splash of kirsch, a cherry brandy, enhancing the cake’s flavors. The combination of textures and flavors made it a party favorite. The Black Forest Cake was not just a dessert; it was a celebration of decadence, drawing fans with its irresistible charm.
6. Baked Alaska
Baked Alaska was a showstopper dessert that impressed guests with its stunning presentation. This dessert combined cake and ice cream, all enveloped in a layer of meringue. The magic happened when it was baked briefly, creating a golden exterior while keeping the ice cream intact. Its ability to surprise and delight made it a favorite at dinner parties. Baked Alaska embodied the creativity and flair of 70s dessert making, offering a dramatic end to any meal.
7. Lemon Pound Cake
Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs tangy citrus with a dense, buttery crumb. Popular in the 70s, it was often served at tea parties and family gatherings. The secret to its bright flavor is the fresh lemon juice and zest used in the batter.
Baking this cake fills the kitchen with a refreshing aroma, reminiscent of sunny days and happy memories. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to enhance its flavors.
8. Cream Wafers
Old fashioned cream wafers are a delightful bite-sized treat from the past. These tender, flaky cookies are filled with a sweet, creamy filling, often tinted in soft pastel shades. Their delicate texture requires a gentle touch in both baking and assembly.
Each bite offers a subtle sweetness, perfect for tea parties and elegant gatherings. They capture the simplicity and charm of the 70s, offering a glimpse into an era where such treats were lovingly crafted for special occasions.
9. Grasshopper Pie
Another delicious treat hidden behind an odd name is Grasshopper Pie. This pie, known for its creamy mint filling, was a favorite among mint lovers. The filling was colored a striking green, reminiscent of the cocktail that inspired it.
The pie featured a chocolate crust, providing a satisfying contrast to the minty cream. Topped with chocolate shavings, it was both a visual and flavorful delight. Grasshopper Pie became synonymous with 70s creativity, offering a fresh twist on traditional dessert flavors.
10. Chocolate Fondue
Chocolate Fondue brought a touch of communal joy to dessert time in the 70s. This interactive dessert involved dipping pieces of fruit, marshmallows, or cake into a pot of melted chocolate. It was a fun and social experience, perfect for gatherings and parties. The rich, flowing chocolate was irresistible, making it a hit with both adults and children. Chocolate Fondue was not just about eating; it was about sharing moments and laughter, embodying the spirit of togetherness that defined the decade.
11. Blueberry Heaven on Earth Cake
A light and refreshing dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at is Blueberry Heaven on Earth Cake. Layers of cake, blueberry filling, and creamy topping make it a heavenly treat. The burst of blueberry flavor in every bite is perfectly balanced with the creamy layers, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s a taste of the 70s that remains timeless. Ideal for summer parties or picnics, this cake is best enjoyed chilled, offering a cool and fruity indulgence that transports you back in time.
12. Buttermilk Pie
A beloved Southern classic that made its mark in kitchens across America during the 70s was Buttermilk Pie. With a velvety, custard-like filling and a subtle tang from the buttermilk, this pie offers a unique balance of sweetness and a refreshing zest.
Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and comforting flavor make it the perfect dessert for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or a cozy Sunday dinner. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly easy to devour. Serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful, heartwarming treat everyone will crave!
13. Champagne Cake Roll
An elegant dessert that adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering was Champagne Cake Roll. Infused with the subtle flavor of champagne, this cake is both a visual and culinary masterpiece from the 70s. The light, fluffy cake is rolled with a creamy filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Its preparation requires patience and precision to achieve that flawless spiral. Ideal for special occasions, this dessert evokes the celebratory spirit of the 70s, making each bite a toast to good times and cherished memories.
14. Divinity Candy
Divinity candy, an airy, cloud-like treat, harkens back to the days of traditional Southern confections. Made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, and egg whites, this candy is as sweet as its name suggests. It offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience cherished by many.
The key to perfect divinity is in the technique, requiring careful attention to temperature and timing. Often adorned with pecans, it adds a delightful crunch to the soft, sugary bite. This nostalgic treat is a staple of holiday gatherings, encapsulating the warmth and love of family traditions.
15. Chocolate Éclair
A decadent treat that brought a touch of French elegance to the 70s dessert scene was Chocolate Éclairs. These pastries, filled with rich custard and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, were a delight for the senses. Bakers would craft each éclair with precision, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crisp pastry contrasted with the smooth filling, while the chocolate topping added a sweet finish. Chocolate Éclairs were more than just a dessert; they were a culinary masterpiece, offering a taste of sophistication that captivated dessert lovers.
16. Irish Cream Profiteroles
In the 1970s, the world of desserts took a sophisticated turn with the introduction of Irish Cream Profiteroles. These delightful pastries are filled with a luscious cream infused with Irish cream liqueur, offering a taste that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Perfect for dinner parties or elegant gatherings, these treats brought a touch of class to any 70s dessert table.
Each profiterole is generously drizzled with a rich chocolate sauce, enhancing the creamy filling’s flavor. The combination of chocolate and Irish cream creates a symphony of tastes that dance beautifully on the palate. Whether enjoyed as a centerpiece or a sweet ending to a meal, Irish Cream Profiteroles are a testament to the era’s culinary creativity.
17. Pavlova
A touch of grace and lightness was brought to the 70s dessert table by Pavlova. This meringue-based dessert boasted a crisp exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like interior. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits like berries or kiwi, Pavlova offered a refreshing and airy finish. The contrast of textures and the vibrant fruit toppings made it an attractive choice for gatherings. Pavlova was more than just a treat; it was an artful creation, embodying the elegance and creativity of 70s desserts.
18. Neapolitan Cookies
Neapolitan Cookies bring together the classic trio of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a delightful and nostalgic treat. Each cookie showcases distinct layers of these flavors, reflecting the Neapolitan ice cream that was a staple in the 70s. The soft, chewy texture of these cookies makes them irresistible to cookie lovers of all ages.
Perfect for tea parties or as an afternoon snack, Neapolitan Cookies offer a burst of flavor with each bite. The combination of three flavors in one cookie was a novel idea at the time, representing the era’s adventurous approach to baking. These cookies continue to be a favorite for those who appreciate the charm of retro desserts.
19. Cherry Limeade Poke Cake
A playful and vibrant dessert that encapsulates the fun-loving spirit of the 70s is Cherry Limeade Poke Cake. The cake is infused with sweet cherry and tangy lime flavors, creating a refreshing and zesty treat. After baking, holes are poked throughout the cake to allow a flavorful syrup to seep in, ensuring every bite is moist and bursting with taste. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a bright red cherry, this cake is not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Cherry Limeade Poke Cake was a popular choice for picnics and summer gatherings, offering a sweet and citrusy delight that pleased both young and old alike.
20. Bread Pudding
Cherished for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors, Yummy Bread Pudding was a beloved comfort dessert in the 70s. Made from leftover bread, this dessert is transformed into a rich, custard-like dish that warms the soul. Topped with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, it fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma that evokes memories of home.
Served warm, often with a creamy vanilla sauce, Yummy Bread Pudding is a perfect example of how the 70s made use of simple ingredients to create something truly special. This dessert embodies the era’s love for hearty, satisfying sweets that were both economical and delicious.
21. Tunnel of Fudge Cake
The Tunnel of Fudge Cake is a quintessential 70s dessert that became popular after winning the Pillsbury Bake-Off. This cake is known for its rich, chocolatey interior surrounded by a moist, dense crumb. The magic lies in its unique fudge tunnel that forms during baking. Serve this cake at your next gathering, and it’s sure to be a hit. Remember, the key to its success is not overbaking, allowing the center to remain delightfully gooey. Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
22. Stained Glass Jello Cake
Making it a show-stopping dessert from the 70s, Stained Glass Jello Cake is a masterpiece of color and flavor. Bright, jewel-toned cubes of Jello are set in a creamy white base, resembling a beautiful mosaic. Each slice reveals a stunning array of colors, captivating both the eyes and the taste buds.
This dessert is as much about the visual impact as it is about flavor. The soft, creamy base perfectly complements the slightly firmer jello cubes, creating a delightful texture contrast. Stained Glass Jello Cake was a favorite for special occasions, providing a splash of color and fun to any celebration.
23. Apple Cake with Caramel Icing
A whimsical 70s dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of caramel is Apple Cake with Caramel Icing. With a unique twist on tradition, this cake skips eggs and butter, yet still delivers an irresistible, moist texture. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings, its apple-filled crumb offers a warm, comforting bite, while the gooey caramel icing adds a decadent touch. Serve it fresh out of the oven with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a treat that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious!
24. Jelly Poke Cake
The Jelly Poke Cake is a visual delight and a treat for the taste buds. This colorful dessert features a moist vanilla cake punctured with holes and filled with vibrant streams of gelatin. The contrasting textures of the soft cake and the jiggly jelly make each bite an adventure. Topped with a generous layer of whipped cream, it adds a light and airy finish to the dessert.
Its popularity in the 70s was largely due to its easy preparation and the element of surprise with each slice revealing a unique pattern. Perfect for parties or gatherings, this dessert not only satisfies sweet cravings but also adds a splash of color to any table. Its playful appearance and delightful taste are sure to win hearts.
25. Pecan Pie
Adding a touch of Southern charm to the 70s dessert table, Pecan Pie quickly became a sweet staple that no gathering was complete without. Known for its gooey filling and crunchy pecan topping, it was a favorite among many. The pie’s sweetness was often balanced by a hint of vanilla or bourbon, creating a rich depth of flavor. With its golden crust and glossy pecan top, Pecan Pie was both visually appealing and delicious. It was a celebration of traditional flavors, offering a taste of warmth and hospitality that defined the decade.
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