Throwing a 1970s-themed potluck gathering is a fun way to bring friends together and enjoy some nostalgic dishes. These 20 recipes are perfect for a retro potluck, featuring a mix of sweet and savory favorites that everyone will love. Each dish is simple to make, easy to share, and guaranteed to bring back memories from the past.
![A stack of three peach crumble bars on a black plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Peach-Crumble-Bars-Image-SM.jpg)
Butterscotch Apple Crisp
![A butterscotch apple crumble in a cast iron skillet on a wooden cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Butterscotch-Apple-Crumble-Image.jpg)
This Butterscotch Apple Crisp takes about an hour to make and is filled with tart apples and sweet butterscotch. The warm, gooey filling combines with a crunchy oat topping for a comforting dessert. Perfect for a 1970s-themed gathering, it brings together nostalgic flavors in every bite. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its balanced sweet and tangy profile.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Apple Crisp
Spiced Pear Cobbler
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The Spiced Pear Cobbler is ready in about an hour and features juicy pears and a blend of warm spices. The buttermilk biscuit topping adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender fruit filling. Each bite is a harmonious mix of sweet, spicy, and buttery goodness. Ideal for evoking 1970s vibes, it’s a dessert that’s both homey and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pear Cobbler
Citrus Dream Tart
![A plate with Citrus Dream Tart next to slices of grapefruit and blood orange.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Citrus-Dream-Tart-Image-SM.jpg)
The Citrus Dream Tart, taking about 2 hours to prepare, offers a refreshing burst of citrus flavors from lemon and lime. The creamy filling sits atop a crisp, buttery crust, making each bite a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. It’s a vibrant and refreshing choice for your potluck spread. The tartness is tempered with a hint of sweetness, creating a delightful dessert.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Dream Tart
Blackberry Crumble Pie
![Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Blackberry-Crumble-Pie-Image-SM2.jpg)
This Blackberry Crumble Pie is a delicious combination of juicy blackberries and a buttery, crumbly topping. Ready in about 1.5 hours, it brings a nostalgic, homemade touch to your 1970s-themed potluck. The tart berries and sweet crumble create a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an inviting and comforting dessert that guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie
Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers
![Overhead shot of a blackberry lime tart on a white plate surrounded by edible flowers.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Blackberry-Lime-Tart-SM.jpg)
The Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers, which takes around 2 hours to make, is as visually stunning as it is tasty. The tart features a zesty lime filling and fresh blackberries, topped with delicate edible flowers. This dessert offers a bright, citrusy flavor with a hint of berry sweetness. It’s a showstopper that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers
Butter Pecan Cookies
![Butter pecan cookies on a tray drizzled with white chocolate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Ginger-Pecan-Cookies-Image-2-edited.jpg)
Butter Pecan Cookies, ready in about 30 minutes, are filled with crunchy pecans and rich butter flavor. These cookies have a delightful crispiness on the outside and a soft, chewy center. They bring a classic 1970s treat to your potluck with their simple yet satisfying taste. The nutty sweetness makes them an irresistible addition to any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
![Two servings of strawberry shortcake on a blue background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Strawberry-Shortcake-Image-SM.jpg)
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake takes about 1 hour to make and features fresh strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and whipped cream. This dessert is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. Perfect for a nostalgic 1970s-themed event, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is a taste of summer and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
![A stack of three lemon bars on a plate with more lemon bars in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Easy-Lemon-Bars-SM-Image-1.jpg)
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust, taking about 45 minutes, offer a bright and tangy treat. The smooth lemon filling sits atop a buttery shortbread base, providing a delightful contrast. This classic dessert is perfect for adding a touch of citrusy freshness to your potluck. The balance of tart and sweet is both refreshing and irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
![A white plate filled with Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies on a red and green striped place mat.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Gluten-Free-Oatmeal-Cookies.jpg)
Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies, ready in about 30 minutes, are packed with oats and a hint of cinnamon. These cookies are chewy, hearty, and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. They bring a wholesome, nostalgic flavor to your 1970s-themed gathering. The combination of oats and spices makes them a comforting and satisfying treat.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
Spiced Shortbread Cookies
![A white plate of a line of Spiced Shortbread Cookies lined up.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Spiced-Shortbread-Cookies.jpg)
Spiced Shortbread Cookies take about 30 minutes to prepare and are infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These cookies are buttery, crisp, and perfectly spiced. They bring a cozy, nostalgic flavor to any 1970s-themed potluck. The spiced notes make them a delightful and aromatic addition to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Shortbread Cookies
Homemade Cinnamon Twists
![Freshly homemade cinnamon twists in a white cup with more on a cooling rack in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Homemade-Cinnamon-Twists-1024x576.jpg)
Homemade Cinnamon Twists, which take about 1 hour to make, are filled with cinnamon and sugar. These twists are flaky, buttery, and have a delightful crunch. They are perfect for adding a touch of sweet nostalgia to your potluck. The warm cinnamon flavor makes them a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Twists
Mini Apple Pies
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Mini-Apple-Pies.jpg)
Mini Apple Pies, ready in about 1 hour, feature tender apples wrapped in a flaky crust. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. They bring a classic dessert to your 1970s-themed gathering in a fun, portable form. Each mini pie is a delightful blend of spiced apple filling and buttery pastry.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies
Apple Cinnamon Rolls
![A pan of freshly baked and frosted apple cinnamon rolls on a dark blue background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Apple-Cinnamon-Rolls-Image-10.jpg)
Apple Cinnamon Rolls take about 2 hours to make and combine sweet apples and warm cinnamon in a soft, fluffy roll. These rolls are gooey, fragrant, and perfect for a nostalgic touch. They bring a cozy, homemade feel to your potluck. The combination of apple and cinnamon is a timeless favorite.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes
![Pineapple Ice Cream Cake on a white plate next to a pool of sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pineapple-Ice-Cream-Cakes-FDL.jpg)
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes, which take about 3 hours to prepare, feature layers of pineapple and creamy ice cream. These cakes are refreshing and sweet, perfect for a 1970s-themed potluck. They bring a tropical flair to your dessert spread. Each bite is a delightful mix of fruity and creamy textures.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
![A bowl of strawberry crumble dessert on a striped tablecloth.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Strawberry-Rhubarb-Crisp-1024x576.jpg)
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp, ready in about 1 hour, combines tart rhubarb and sweet strawberries under a crunchy oat topping. This dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It’s a classic choice that brings a touch of nostalgia to your potluck. The crisp topping adds a delightful texture contrast.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread
![A loaf of cranberry orange poppy seed bread on a cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cranberry-Orange-Poppy-Seed-Bread-Image-SM.jpg)
Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread, taking about 1 hour to make, features tangy cranberries and bright orange zest. This bread is moist, slightly sweet, and dotted with crunchy poppy seeds. It’s perfect for adding a touch of citrusy freshness to your potluck. The combination of flavors makes it a standout dessert.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread
Chewy No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
![A stack of peanut butter oatmeal bars on a piece of paper.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Peanut-Butter-Oat-Bars-Image.jpg)
Chewy No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars, ready in about 20 minutes, are packed with peanut butter and oats. These bars are sweet, chewy, and require no baking, making them a quick and easy addition. They bring a wholesome, nostalgic flavor to your 1970s-themed gathering. The peanut butter and oats combination is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chewy No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Key-Lime-Pie-with-Coconut-Whipped-Cream.jpg)
Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream, taking about 1.5 hours to make, offers a tart and creamy dessert. The key lime filling is balanced by a sweet coconut whipped cream topping. It brings a tropical twist to your potluck. The refreshing flavors make it a perfect summer treat.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream
Peach Crumble Bars
![A stack of three peach crumble bars on a black plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Peach-Crumble-Bars-Image-SM.jpg)
Peach Crumble Bars, ready in about 1 hour, feature sweet peaches and a buttery crumble topping. These bars are a delightful mix of juicy fruit and crispy crumble. They bring a touch of nostalgia to your 1970s-themed gathering. The combination of peaches and crumble is simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble Bars
Lemon Sugar Cookies
![A stack of three lemon sugar cookies with one cookie leaning against the stack, in front of jars of milk.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Lemon-Sugar-Cookies.jpg)
Lemon Sugar Cookies, taking about 30 minutes to make, are filled with bright lemon flavor and a crisp sugar coating. These cookies are light, refreshing, and perfect for adding a citrusy touch. They bring a burst of sunshine to your potluck. The balance of sweet and tart is delightful in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Sugar Cookies