Ring in the new year with a show-stopping dessert table packed with flavor, color, and a bit of sparkle. From boozy buttercreams to nostalgic funfetti layers, the cakes below suit gatherings big and small. Each recipe idea highlights a mood—elegant, playful, or downright cozy—so you can match the vibe of your countdown party. Pick one or mix and match for a dessert buffet guests will remember long after the last confetti pop.
Contents
- 1. Champagne Bubbles Layer Cake
- 2. Midnight Mocha Torte
- 3. Sparkling Raspberry Prosecco Cake
- 4. Confetti Countdown Funfetti Cake
- 5. Almond Champagne Bundt
- 6. Cocoa Berry Bûche de Noël
- 7. Citrus Pomegranate Mirror Cake
- 8. Salted Caramel Drip Cake
- 9. Coconut Rum Tres Leches
- 10. Black Forest Firecracker Cake
- 11. Lemon Elderflower Layer Cake
- 12. Spiced Chai Latte Cake
- 13. Pistachio Rosewater Cake
- 14. Red Velvet Countdown Cake
- 15. Cookies-and-Cream Sparkler Cake
- 16. Hazelnut Gianduja Opera Cake
- 17. Mango Passionfruit Mousse Cake
- 18. Maple Pecan Butter Cake
- 19. Strawberry Champagne Shortcake
- 20. Gingerbread Latte Layer Cake
- 21. Raspberry Pistachio Semifreddo Cake
- 22. Bourbon-Pecan Praline Cake
- 23. Tiramisu Celebration Cake
- 24. Dark Chocolate Orange Gateau
- 25. Matcha White Chocolate Mousse Cake
- 26. Caramelized Banana Foster Cake
- 27. Honey Lavender Almond Cake
- 28. Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye Cake
- 29. Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
- 30. Mocha Almond Dacquoise Cake
- 31. Pineapple Coconut Hummingbird Cake
- 32. White Chocolate Cranberry Swirl Cake
- 33. Cardamom Pear Upside-Down Cake
- 34. Rum-Soaked Fruitcake Reimagined
- 35. Espresso Caramel Cheesecake
- 36. Raspberry Almond Linzer Torte Cake
- 37. Chocolate-Hazelnut Mousse Bomb Cake
- 38. Meyer Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake
- 39. Blueberry Champagne Sheet Cake
- 40. S’mores Toasted Marshmallow Cake
- 41. Pistachio Cherry Chocolate Torte
- 42. Pear Gingerbread Charlotte
- 43. Cherry Almond Champagne Roulade
- 44. Dark Chocolate Saltine Toffee Cake
- 45. Earl Grey Honey Butter Cake
- 46. Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- 47. Mocha Raspberry Opera Slice
- 48. Coconut Pandan Celebration Cake
- 49. Chocolate Stout Caramel Cake
- 50. Passionfruit Coconut Pavlova Cake
- 51. Vanilla Bean Black-Sesame Swirl Cake
- 52. Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake
- 53. Cherry Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cake
- 54. Grapefruit Rosemary Olive Oil Cake
- 55. Chocolate-Mint Midnight Torte
- 56. Rhubarb Vanilla Custard Cake
- 57. Pistachio Cardamom Kulfi Icebox Cake
- 58. Blackberry Sage Velvet Cake
- 59. Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Cake
- 60. Chocolate Pecan Derby Cake
- 61. Lychee Rose Chiffon Cake
- 62. Sesame Honey Kouign-Amann Cake
- 63. Cranberry Orange Almond Flour Cake
- 64. Black Sesame Matcha Cheesecake
- 65. Champagne Strawberries & Cream Angel Food Cake
1. Champagne Bubbles Layer Cake

Sparkling wine in both the batter and the buttercream gives this tender vanilla cake a subtle grape aroma. Edible gold glitter dusted over the frosting mimics midnight fireworks without overpowering the flavor. Chill the layers briefly before frosting so the bubbles stay light and airy.
2. Midnight Mocha Torte

Deep cocoa notes mingle with freshly brewed espresso for a bittersweet treat perfect for late-night revelers. The dense crumb feels luxurious, yet the espresso cuts through the richness. Serve thin slices with a splash of cold brew or a small glass of milk stout.
3. Sparkling Raspberry Prosecco Cake
Prosecco reduces into a light syrup brushed over vanilla sponge, while mashed raspberries tint the frosting blush-pink. The result is fruity, fizzy, and gently sweet. Garnish with sugared raspberries for an icy, jewel-like finish.
4. Confetti Countdown Funfetti Cake
Classic childhood nostalgia meets adult celebration in this rainbow-speckled vanilla cake. Sour cream in the batter keeps the crumb moist while multicolored jimmies burst like confetti inside each slice. Top with vanilla buttercream and a shower of extra sprinkles right before guests arrive.
5. Almond Champagne Bundt
Finely ground almonds lend richness to a tender Bundt scented with a splash of bubbly. A thin champagne-powdered sugar glaze settles into the ridges, giving each bite a faint effervescence. This cake travels well—ideal if you’re the guest bringing dessert.
6. Cocoa Berry Bûche de Noël
A nod to the French Yule log, this version rolls dark chocolate sponge around tangy raspberry mascarpone. The swirl slices reveal striking rings that look festive on any platter. Finish with chocolate ganache “bark” and a few sugared cranberries for winter flair.
7. Citrus Pomegranate Mirror Cake
Pomegranate juice turns the mirror glaze a jewel-tone red, while a layer of orange mousse inside brightens the palate. The high shine catches candlelight beautifully at midnight. Slice with a hot knife for ultra-clean edges.
8. Salted Caramel Drip Cake
A vanilla-brown sugar base pairs with silky salted caramel Swiss meringue buttercream for balanced sweetness. Just before serving, spoon warm caramel along the rim so it drips dramatically down the sides. A pinch of sea salt crystals adds sparkle and crunch.
9. Coconut Rum Tres Leches
Tres leches cake turns tropical by swapping part of the dairy mixture for coconut milk and a touch of dark rum. The sponge soaks overnight, becoming custardy yet light. Serve chilled with extra toasted coconut scattered on top.
10. Black Forest Firecracker Cake
This classic German gateau layers kirsch-soaked chocolate sponge with tart cherry compote and whipped cream. For a New Year twist, sprinkle popping candy over the top just before serving. The subtle crackle echoes fireworks in every bite.
11. Lemon Elderflower Layer Cake
Bright lemon zest brings zing while elderflower cordial perfumes the buttercream. The flavor duo feels light after a rich holiday meal. Decorate with candied lemon wheels for an elegant, understated look.
12. Spiced Chai Latte Cake
Black tea is steeped in milk, then folded into the batter for gentle tannins. Warming spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and clove—echo a cozy cup of chai. Pair with milky tea or coffee as the ball drops.
13. Pistachio Rosewater Cake
Ground pistachios create a naturally green crumb, while rosewater buttercream adds floral aroma. The combination feels sophisticated without being heavy. A scattering of crushed nuts over the frosting adds texture and color contrast.
14. Red Velvet Countdown Cake
Cocoa-infused red layers pair with tangy cream cheese frosting for a crowd-pleaser everyone recognizes. Use gel coloring for a deep hue that photographs beautifully. The bright red crumb looks striking against white plates and silver décor.
15. Cookies-and-Cream Sparkler Cake
Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies fold into both the batter and the frosting, giving a fun crunch in every forkful. A quick chocolate ganache drip ties everything together. Kids and adults alike reach for this one first.
16. Hazelnut Gianduja Opera Cake
This multi-layered French classic swaps almond joconde for hazelnut sponge, echoing Nutella flavors. Espresso syrup keeps the cake moist and adds bitterness to balance the sweet gianduja. Thin slices go a long way, making it ideal for large gatherings.
17. Mango Passionfruit Mousse Cake
Light sponge supports airy mango mousse, while a passionfruit gel layer offers tart contrast. Chill overnight for clean layers and an almost ice-cream-like texture. Serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing finale.
18. Maple Pecan Butter Cake
Browned butter and pure maple syrup create deep caramel notes in this Southern-inspired cake. Toasted pecans throughout the batter offer crunch and nuttiness. A warm maple glaze brushed over the top keeps the crumb moist for hours.
19. Strawberry Champagne Shortcake
Fluffy vanilla sponge mimics classic shortcake biscuits, while strawberries soak in a splash of sparkling rosé. Fold a bit of bubbly into whipped cream for a feather-light filling. Best assembled just before serving so the layers stay lofty.
20. Gingerbread Latte Layer Cake
Molasses and ginger give the cake a wintery aroma, while espresso-kissed buttercream keeps things lively. The flavors capture that final holiday latte of the season. A drizzle of espresso caramel underlines the coffee notes.
21. Raspberry Pistachio Semifreddo Cake
This no-bake option layers raspberry semifreddo over a crunchy pistachio dacquoise base. Freeze until firm, then temper briefly for neat slices. Its bright flavor cuts through heavier dishes served earlier in the night.
22. Bourbon-Pecan Praline Cake
Toasted pecan layers soaked with a bourbon simple syrup feel decadent yet approachable. The warm praline glaze sets softly, giving a candy-like finish. Serve small wedges with strong coffee or neat whiskey.
23. Tiramisu Celebration Cake
Ladyfinger sponges are replaced with genoise layers brushed in espresso and Marsala wine. Mascarpone cream whipped to billowy peaks fills the cake, while a cocoa dusting provides a classic look. Chill at least six hours for flavors to meld.
24. Dark Chocolate Orange Gateau
Bittersweet chocolate layers contrast a bright, zesty orange curd filling. Orange blossom water in the ganache adds perfume without overpowering the palate. Each forkful feels balanced, not overly sweet.
25. Matcha White Chocolate Mousse Cake
Earthy matcha sponge anchors silky white chocolate mousse for a subtle yet striking dessert. The faint bitterness of tea balances the sweetness of chocolate. Sift additional matcha over the top just before serving for vibrant color.
26. Caramelized Banana Foster Cake
Ripe bananas puréed into the batter keep this cake moist, while a tableside rum caramel sauce channels classic Bananas Foster. Caramelized banana slices crown the top and add dramatic flair. Serve warm for gooey comfort.
27. Honey Lavender Almond Cake
Ground almonds give a tender crumb, while dried culinary lavender softly perfumes the frosting. Local honey brushed over the warm layers imparts floral sweetness. It pairs nicely with sparkling mead or herbal tea.
28. Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye Cake
Inspired by Ohio’s famous candy, this cake layers moist chocolate sponge with fluffy peanut butter mousse. A slick of ganache locks in moisture and adds shine. It travels well if you’re heading to a friend’s countdown bash.
29. Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Fruity extra-virgin olive oil keeps the crumb tender, while blood orange juice and zest lend a rosy hue. Finish with a drizzle of citrus glaze for gentle sweetness. The single-layer format is quick for last-minute bakers.
30. Mocha Almond Dacquoise Cake
Crunchy almond meringue discs sandwich silky coffee buttercream, delivering textural contrast in every bite. Chill for a few hours so the meringue softens slightly yet stays crisp at the edges. Light, airy, and gluten-friendly by nature.
31. Pineapple Coconut Hummingbird Cake
Crushed pineapple and mashed banana keep this Southern classic ultra-moist. Coconut flakes folded into the batter amplify island vibes. A tangy cream cheese frosting ties everything together.
32. White Chocolate Cranberry Swirl Cake
Tart cranberry compote folded through white chocolate batter creates festive red ribbons. The balance of sweet and tangy keeps the cake from feeling heavy. A white chocolate drip adds extra sheen.
33. Cardamom Pear Upside-Down Cake
Sliced pears caramelize in brown sugar while the cake bakes, forming a glossy topping once inverted. Ground cardamom in the batter brings a gentle warmth perfect for winter nights. Serve slightly warm with whipped crème fraîche.
34. Rum-Soaked Fruitcake Reimagined
This updated version skips dense candied peel in favor of dried cherries, apricots, and golden raisins soaked in dark rum. A touch of cocoa deepens the flavor and color. Age it for two weeks, brushing with rum every few days, for peak moisture.
35. Espresso Caramel Cheesecake
Baked in a cookie crumb crust, this cheesecake blends espresso powder into the filling for gentle coffee notes. Swirls of homemade caramel create marbled visuals. Chill overnight for the smoothest texture.
36. Raspberry Almond Linzer Torte Cake
Inspired by Austrian linzer torte, almond sponge layers sandwich tart raspberry preserves. A thin dusting of powdered sugar evokes winter snow. The cake keeps well at room temperature—great for buffet spreads.
37. Chocolate-Hazelnut Mousse Bomb Cake
The spherical mold hides alternating rings of mousse and sponge for a dramatic cut-open reveal. A glossy dark glaze reflects twinkling string lights. Serve chilled so the mousse holds its shape.
38. Meyer Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake
Rich ricotta adds moisture without heaviness, while fragrant Meyer lemons lend floral acidity. The loaf format requires minimal decoration—just a quick citrus glaze. Leftovers toast beautifully for New Year’s Day brunch.
39. Blueberry Champagne Sheet Cake
Sheet cakes feed a crowd with ease, and this one bursts with juicy blueberries that pop against fluffy champagne-buttercream. A scattering of metallic dragees adds sparkle akin to confetti. Cut into tidy squares for fuss-free serving.
40. S’mores Toasted Marshmallow Cake
Chocolate sponge alternates with graham cracker crumbs and milk chocolate ganache. Marshmallow meringue swirls over the top before being lightly torched for campfire aroma. It’s nostalgic yet party-ready.
41. Pistachio Cherry Chocolate Torte
Ground pistachios replace some of the flour, making the crumb moist and naturally green-flecked. Tart dried cherries contrast the rich chocolate base. Serve with unsweetened whipped cream to balance sweetness.
42. Pear Gingerbread Charlotte
Spiced gingerbread ladyfingers line a mold filled with poached-pear mousse, creating an impressive vertical slice. The flavor profile feels festive yet light. Chill several hours so the mousse sets firmly.
43. Cherry Almond Champagne Roulade
Almond sponge bakes thin and pliable, perfect for rolling around champagne-spiked whipped cream and cherry compote. Each spiral slice offers balanced fruit and nut notes. Best assembled day-of for springiness.
44. Dark Chocolate Saltine Toffee Cake
This playful cake hides crushed saltine crackers in the frosting for sweet-salty crunch. A layer of homemade crackly toffee crowns the top, catching the light. The juxtaposition of textures keeps guests intrigued.
45. Earl Grey Honey Butter Cake
Earl Grey tea leaves steeped in milk give subtle bergamot fragrance, while honey adds floral sweetness. The buttery crumb stays moist for days. A thin tea glaze sets with a satiny sheen.
46. Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Reduced apple cider intensifies fruit flavor, and a heavy dusting of cinnamon sugar echoes a fairground doughnut. The Bundt shape increases surface area for more sugary crunch. Serve slightly warm for best aroma.
47. Mocha Raspberry Opera Slice
Classic opera cake gets a berry twist with thin raspberry jelly sheets between coffee-soaked sponge. The tartness lifts the chocolate richness. Slice small rectangles for elegant petit-four portions.
48. Coconut Pandan Celebration Cake
Fresh pandan juice lends the sponge a fragrant, vanilla-like aroma and natural green hue. Coconut milk frosting adds creamy complement. A ring of toasted coconut chips emphasizes the tropical vibe.
49. Chocolate Stout Caramel Cake
Rich stout amplifies chocolate depth and keeps the crumb tender. A lightly bitter stout reduction drizzled over caramel frosting prevents cloying sweetness. Pair slices with porter or nitro stout for harmony.
50. Passionfruit Coconut Pavlova Cake
This hybrid layers coconut-studded meringue discs with tangy passionfruit curd, giving a crunchy-gooey texture contrast. Assemble just before serving to keep the meringue crisp. The bright flavors awaken taste buds after a heavy meal.
51. Vanilla Bean Black-Sesame Swirl Cake
Nutty black-sesame paste streaked through vanilla batter creates stunning contrasts in color and flavor. A simple vanilla bean glaze highlights the aromatic seeds. It’s striking yet deeply comforting.
52. Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake
Layers of buttery cinnamon-sugar filling mimic everything you love about pastries, but in towering cake form. Cream cheese icing drips down the sides for an irresistible look. Warm each slice for a minute to release the cinnamon aroma.
53. Cherry Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cake
Ricotta and mascarpone frosting echo cannoli filling, while mini chips add crunch. Fold in chopped Amarena cherries for almond-like depth. Dust the top with powdered sugar and crushed waffle cone crumbs.
54. Grapefruit Rosemary Olive Oil Cake
Herbaceous rosemary pairs surprisingly well with sharp pink grapefruit zest. Olive oil lends moisture and subtle fruitiness. A light citrus glaze pulls everything together without extra fuss.
55. Chocolate-Mint Midnight Torte
Dark chocolate and fresh mint extract produce a flavor reminiscent of after-dinner mints. A mirror-smooth ganache coat reflects the candlelight of the countdown. Sprinkle crushed peppermint just before serving for crunch.
56. Rhubarb Vanilla Custard Cake
Poached rhubarb strips lay across a creamy custard layer that bakes into the vanilla sponge, creating a striking two-tone cross-section. A hint of lemon brightens the vegetal tang. Serve at room temperature for best texture.
57. Pistachio Cardamom Kulfi Icebox Cake
Layers of cardamom-spiced whipped cream and pistachio cookies freeze into a semifreddo-like treat reminiscent of kulfi. No baking required, leaving the oven free for appetizers. Let sit five minutes out of the freezer before slicing.
58. Blackberry Sage Velvet Cake
Pureed blackberries tint the batter and contribute moisture, giving a dusky purple hue. Sage leaves steeped in milk infuse herbal nuance. Layer with blackberry-sage buttercream for a sophisticated combo.
59. Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Cake
Brown butter intensifies pumpkin’s nutty qualities, while warm spices sing of lingering holiday cheer. Cream cheese frosting stays traditional, but browning the butter takes it up a notch. Candied pepitas add crunch and color.
60. Chocolate Pecan Derby Cake
Think Kentucky Derby pie meets layer cake: gooey brown sugar pecan filling sandwiched between chocolate sponge. A bourbon-kissed ganache coats everything in silk. Small slices recommended—it’s rich.
61. Lychee Rose Chiffon Cake
Lychee purée keeps the chiffon tender and delicately sweet, while rosewater whipped cream layers in floral fragrance. The cake’s light structure provides welcome relief after hearty mains. Garnish with edible rose petals for elegance.
62. Sesame Honey Kouign-Amann Cake
This flip on the Breton pastry transforms laminated dough into a shareable round, then bakes it until the honey-sesame crust crunches like brittle. The interior remains flaky and buttery. Cut into wedges and serve warm.
63. Cranberry Orange Almond Flour Cake
Almond flour provides nutty richness while keeping the cake gluten-friendly. Fresh cranberries burst into tart pockets that balance the sweet crumb. A quick orange icing ties in holiday flavors.
64. Black Sesame Matcha Cheesecake
The yin-yang swirl of earthy matcha and nutty sesame turns a simple cheesecake into visual art. A roasted black sesame crust deepens flavor and color contrast. Chill overnight for clean cuts and set layers.
65. Champagne Strawberries & Cream Angel Food Cake
Light as air, this angel food cake soaks up strawberry juices without collapsing. Macerating berries in a splash of sparkling wine adds festive fizz. Finish with unsweetened whipped cream for cloud-like texture that practically floats into the new year.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.