Step into a sugar-filled, bell-bottomed time warp as we explore the groovy desserts of the 1970s. This was the decade where sweet creations grooved their way onto the scene, inspired by everything from culinary creativity to disco fever.
Get ready to revisit 15 iconic desserts that defined the era, plus 5 treats that deserve a comeback and a second chance to shine!
1. Chiffon Pie
Chiffon pies were the epitome of dessert sophistication in the ’70s. These pies tantalized taste buds with their airy texture and bold flavors like lemon or chocolate. The secret? A magical mix of egg whites beaten into submission, creating a perfect mousse-like consistency.
Often topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, chiffon pies were both a visual and gastronomic treat.
2. Gelatin Mold
Oh, the gelatin mold—a culinary masterpiece or a wobbly nightmare? These psychedelic jellies were a staple of the ’70s, found at every potluck or family gathering.
Vibrant colors, often with bits of fruit trapped in their translucent depths, made them both a visual spectacle and a textural enigma. Crafted in fanciful shapes, these desserts provided a sweet, sometimes bizarre, ending to a meal.
3. Black Forest Cake
Decadence thy name is Black Forest cake. This German import became a ’70s classic, beloved for its layers of rich chocolate, luscious whipped cream, and tart cherries.
A dessert that’s as dramatic as a disco ball, each slice promised an indulgent bite of heaven. Topped with chocolate shavings and more cherries, it was a showstopper at any gathering.
4. Baked Alaska
Baked Alaska, the dessert that dared to defy physics. Picture this: ice cream and sponge cake cloaked in a fluffy meringue, browned to perfection.
It was the ’70s answer to dessert drama, often ignited tableside to the delight of gasping guests. This sweet spectacle was a must-have at fancy dinners, leaving everyone in awe of its fiery presentation.
5. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Flip it and reverse it! Pineapple upside-down cake turned dessert conventions on their head. This ’70s darling featured caramelized pineapple rings and cherries atop a buttery cake.
When flipped, it revealed a glossy, fruity crown fit for royalty. The cake was moist, sweet, and slightly tangy—a tropical escape in every bite.
6. Grasshopper Pie
Step aside, kids, the grasshopper pie is here to steal the show. This minty green marvel was a ’70s sensation, combining the flavors of crème de menthe and chocolate in a chilled pie format.
The contrast of a rich chocolate cookie crust and creamy mint filling was nothing short of invigorating. Topped with a swirl of whipped cream, it was a sight to behold and a delight to devour.
7. Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Who knew vegetables could be so divine? Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting was a ’70s revelation, turning humble carrots into a dessert sensation.
The cake was moist, spicy, and studded with walnuts or raisins, providing both crunch and chew. It was a dessert that pleased both the health-conscious and sweet-toothed alike.
8. Chocolate Fondue
Fondue parties were all the rage in the swinging ’70s, and chocolate fondue was the king of indulgence. Imagine dipping fresh fruits or marshmallows into a pot of warm, melted chocolate. Pure bliss!
The communal aspect of fondue made dessert a shared experience, perfect for social gatherings. It was an interactive dessert that combined fun and flavor in one delightful package.
9. Banana Split
Ah, the banana split—a dessert that’s stood the test of time. The ’70s saw this classic sundae reach new heights, with endless variations and toppings.
Imagine a split banana cradling scoops of ice cream, drizzled with chocolate sauce, and finished with whipped cream, nuts, and cherries. No two banana splits were ever the same, making each one a unique adventure in indulgence.
10. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake, a dessert as sweet and simple as a summer day. This ’70s classic combined juicy strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and clouds of whipped cream. Each bite was a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and creamy.
The shortcake’s biscuit base provided the ideal foundation for the vibrant berries and smooth cream. A dessert that celebrated the season’s best, it was a staple at picnics and barbecues.
11. Fruit Pizza
Did someone say pizza for dessert? Fruit pizza was the groovy answer to a healthy-ish sweet treat in the ’70s. A cookie crust topped with cream cheese frosting and artfully arranged fresh fruits made this dessert a feast for the eyes.
The vibrant colors and creative designs made fruit pizzas a hit at summer parties and brunches. It was a versatile treat that allowed both kids and adults to play with their food.
12. Ice Cream Cake
Wherever they went, ice cream cakes brought the party with them. These frozen creations layered different ice cream flavors with cake, creating a dessert that was both playful and delightful.
Whipped cream and sprinkles often adorned the top, adding a festive touch to any celebration. It wasn’t just a dessert; it was an experience.
13. Cherry Clafoutis
Cherry clafoutis—fancy name, simple pleasure. This French import found its way onto ’70s dessert menus, where its custard-like texture and sweet cherry filling charmed many.
Baked in a rustic dish and dusted with powdered sugar, it was a dessert that looked as good as it tasted. The contrast of juicy cherries and creamy batter created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
14. Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons, the chewy treat that took the ’70s by storm. These sweet, dense cookies were packed with shredded coconut and baked to golden perfection.
Their rich, nutty flavor and satisfying texture made them a favorite at afternoon teas and bake sales. Easy to love and even easier to make, coconut macaroons were the dessert equivalent of a warm hug.
15. Cheesecake
Creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible—cheesecake was the ’70s dessert that had everyone swooning. With its rich cream cheese filling and buttery graham cracker crust, every bite was pure indulgence.
Often topped with a glossy fruit compote, it was both a visual and flavorful masterpiece. A crowd-pleaser at any event, cheesecake had a way of making even ordinary moments feel special.
16. Lemon Bars
Luscious lemon bars brought a zesty twist to ’70s dessert tables. These tangy treats featured a buttery shortbread base topped with a smooth, lemony filling.
The bright citrus flavor was perfectly balanced by the sweetness, making each bite a refreshing delight. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they were a sunny addition to any gathering.
17. Tiramisu
Tiramisu—a dessert with a name as exotic as its flavors. This Italian classic featured layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, offering a taste of sophistication.
The dusting of cocoa on top added a bittersweet note, rounding out the dessert’s complex profile. Tiramisu was a ’70s darling, perfect for those seeking a decadent escape.
18. Crepes Suzette
With its theatrical flair, Crepes Suzette became a dessert sensation. These thin pancakes were flambéed with a zesty orange sauce tableside, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
The combination of citrus and liqueur gave the crepes a unique, aromatic flavor that was both refreshing and indulgent. A ’70s favorite, it was perfect for impressing guests with a touch of French elegance.
19. Lava Cake
Where dessert meets molten magic, you’ll find lava cake. These small chocolate cakes with a gooey center were the ’70s answer to on-demand indulgence.
When cut open, the rich chocolate center flowed like lava, creating a decadent surprise for anyone lucky enough to score a slice. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the ultimate in dessert decadence.
20. Jelly Roll
Jelly roll—an old-fashioned favorite with a ’70s twist. This rolled sponge cake filled with jelly became a lunchtime staple, delighting kids and adults alike.
The visual appeal of its spiral design was matched only by its sweet, fruity flavor. Light, airy, and endlessly charming, jelly rolls were the whimsical end to any meal.