From classic pies and cakes that would look incredible behind a glass display case to retro ice cream treats that demand a cherry on top, you’ll find something you love in this collection of our best vintage, diner-inspired desserts practically scream “nostalgia.”
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Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Our twist on the classic ice cream sundae, this deceptively easy treat comes together with just five ingredients in your trusty 9×13-inch pan.
Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Homemade lemon curd is topped with freshly whipped meringue in this classic pie recipe.
Homemade Banana Split
This timeless 10-minute treat tastes just as delicious as you remember. Of course, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste.
Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
Dotdash-Meredith Food Studios
“This amazing apple pie recipe belonged to my grandmother. I have never seen another one quite like it! It will always be my favorite and has won several first place prizes in local competitions. It makes the perfect dessert for family dinners or during the holidays.” —MOSHASMAMA
One Bowl Chocolate Cake
Morgan Glaze / Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall / Prop Stylist: Pricilla Montiel
“This homemade chocolate cake recipe is super easy to prepare in one bowl for a deliciously moist and fluffy chocolate cake. This is the best chocolate cake I have ever had! Frost with your favorite frosting.” —shirleyo
Banana Cream Pie
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“This banana cream pie is made with homemade pudding. It is one of the yummiest desserts on earth!” —Ruby Pfeffer
Vanilla Milkshake
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
You need just three ingredients to make a diner-worthy shake at home: ice cream, milk, and vanilla extract.
Easy Sour Cream Cheesecake
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
You won’t believe how easy it is to make this show-stopping cheesecake. The secret ingredient is sour cream, which results in an unforgettably velvety texture and subtly tangy flavor.
Homemade Red Velvet Cake
Allrecipes / Abbey Littlejohn
“Wow, great cake. I never liked red velvet cake until I had this one. I followed the cake recipe exactly. The flavor and texture were wonderful.” —Amy Fassinger
Homemade Blueberry Pie
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“This blueberry pie is bursting with fresh juicy blueberries and is a beautiful sight with a lattice top.” —Beth
Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“A coconut cream pie recipe that’s tried and true. It took many years of searching and baking to find the right one, and this is it!” —Carol H.
Cherry Pie
ALLRECIPES / ANA CADENA
“This cherry pie recipe includes a buttery homemade crust and easy cherry filling. I was so pleased when this recipe got first place in the 1999 American Pie Council’s National Pie Championship!” —Beth Campbell
Best Carrot Cake Ever
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“This is the best carrot cake recipe I have ever made! It’s so moist and flavorful and makes a large quantity of cake. Since I started making it, I have been hounded to make this cake time and time again. Frost with cream cheese frosting.” —Nan
Lemon Lush
MacKenzie Schieck
“This lemon lush dessert has a shortbread crust and layers of lemon and cream cheese filling. A family friend shared this recipe with me. It’s always a hit at any get-togethers.” —Mrs. Kelly Z
Gourmet Root Beer Float
“Tall glasses overflowing with root beer and vanilla ice cream. Top with whipped cream and cherries for a touch of elegance.” —Lucinda