Our Most Showstopping Cakes Ever

The December issue of Southern Living is renowned for the fabulous "big white cake," as our staff knows it, that always adorns its cover. Whether it's a lavish extravaganza, such as Red Velvet-Peppermint Cake, or a one-pan wonder, such as Cream Cheese-Coconut-Pecan Pound Cake, these recipes represent the very best of the season. In fact, many of you make it a tradition to bake these luscious confections each year to share with family and friends, allowing us to be part of your important meals and gatherings. Here, we offer nine of our most extraordinary cakes as our gift to you. So pick one out, preheat the oven, and bake yet another holiday memory.

Recipe: Lemon-Coconut Cake

With its creamy white frosting and luscious citrus filling, Lemon-Coconut Cake is three layers of heaven.

Boxwood Garland
2 dozen small fresh boxwood sprigs
3 dozen sour cherry candies
Glazed Tangerine Segments
Sugared Fruit Ribbons

1. Just before serving, arrange boxwood sprigs, cherry candies, Glazed Tangerine Segments, and Sugared Fruit Ribbons in a pattern to form a garland around the outer edges of your cake.

Note: Boxwood makes a nice garnish but is poisonous if ingested, so be sure to warn guests. Sour cherry candies are available by the pound at supercenters. They are also available at some grocery stores. Any round red candies may be substituted.

Glazed Tangerine Segments: Separate a peeled tangerine into individual segments, and brush lightly with corn syrup to create the appearance of glazed fruit.

Sugared Fruit Ribbons: Create ribbons from strawberry-flavored chewy fruit rolls by the foot. (They come in a 4.5-oz. package. One roll will provide enough ribbon for the garland.) Unroll fruit roll, and remove paper backing. Using scissors, cut roll in half lengthwise to form 2 narrow ribbons. Brush both sides of each ribbon lightly with water, and sprinkle evenly with granulated sugar. Let stand 15 minutes on wire rack or until dry. Cut into desired lengths, and arrange as desired in the garland.

• Chocolate-Red Velvet Layer Cake
• Chocolate-Red Velvet Cake Batter
• Cream Cheese Frosting
• Fluted Chocolate-Red Velvet Cakes

Unveiling Our Next Cake
Don't miss this year's tempting offering featured on the cover of our upcoming December issue (on sale November 28). Like the gems featured here, it's sure to impress.

"Our Most Showstopping Cakes Ever" is from the Home for the Holidays 2007 issue of Southern Living.