Desserts are a delightful way to end a meal or enjoy a treat anytime. But sometimes, making desserts can seem overwhelming, especially if you need more time or ingredients. Thankfully, plenty of easy dessert recipes require minimal effort while delivering maximum satisfaction. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of easy dessert recipes that are quick to make and incredibly delicious.
NoBake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Regarding easy dessert recipes, no-bake cookies are a top choice. These chocolate oatmeal cookies are made with just a few ingredients and don’t require an oven, making them a perfect go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Take a medium saucepan, and melt the butter over medium heat in it.
2. Stir in sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Boil for 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, oats, and vanilla extract.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper and let them cool until set.
Tip: Add shredded coconut or nuts for more texture and flavour.
Classic Tiramisu
Tiramisu is often considered a complex dessert, but this version is one of the easiest dessert recipes you can find. It’s a no-bake Italian classic that layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream, offering a luxurious taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 3 large eggs, separated
- ½ cup sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 24 ladyfingers
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, combine the coffee and coffee liqueur. Set aside.
2. Take a large bowl, and beat the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale.
3. Add the mascarpone cheese to the egg yolk mixture and beat until smooth.
4.Using a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Then delicately fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.
5. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 12 seconds, then layer them in a dish.
6. Take half of the mascarpone mixture and spread it over the ladyfingers. then repeat using another layer of dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone.
7. Dust some cocoa powder on top and keep it in the refridgerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tip: For a nonalcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur.
Simple Lemon Bars
If you’re craving something tangy and sweet, these lemon bars are a fantastic choice among easy dessert recipes. With a buttery shortbread crust and a zesty lemon filling, they are sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
For the filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Mix flour, butter, and powdered sugar using a medium bowl until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Bake the crust for 1520 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While the crust is baking, start preparing the filling. Whisk together the sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl.
5. Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven for another 2025 minutes or until the filling is set.
6. Allow the lemon bars to cool completely before they’re cut into squares.
Tip: Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
Peach Cobbler
Cobblers are classic comfort foods, and this peach cobbler is among the most beloved easy dessert recipes. It requires minimal prep and can be made with fresh, canned, or frozen peaches, making it versatile and convenient.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups sliced peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, for sweeter peaches)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt inside a large bowl.
3. Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Take the batter and pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread the sliced peaches evenly over the batter. Sprinkle with additional sugar if desired.
6. Bake for 4550 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes clean.
7. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tip: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra flavour.
Chocolate Mousse
Chocolate mousse is a decadent and airy treat that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. As one of the most elegant, easy dessert recipes, it’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a quick chocolate fix.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Mix the chocolate and butter over a pot of simmering water in a heatproof bowl, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and thick. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.
3. Using a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Delicately fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture.
4. whip the heavy cream in another bowl until soft peaks form. Delicately fold whipped cream into the chocolate mixture till its nicely combined.
5. Put the mousse into serving dishes and keep in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tip: Garnish with shaved chocolate or fresh berries for a decorative touch.
Banana Bread
Banana bread is a staple in many households, especially when looking for easy dessert recipes to use up overripe bananas. This recipe results in a moist and flavorful loaf that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Using a large bowl, cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat the eggs individually, then stir the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
4. whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well-mixed. Fold in the nuts if using.
5. Pour the batter into the pre-heated loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 6070 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes clean.
7. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tip: Spread slices with butter or cream cheese for an extra treat.
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is an elegant Italian dessert that stands out among easy dessert recipes for its simplicity and sophistication. This creamy, gelatin-based dessert can be customized with various toppings to suit any palate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring consistently, until the sugar is well dissolved but the mixture is not boiling.
2. Move the saucepan away from heat and add in the vanilla extract.
3. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften. Afterwards, stir the gelatin into the hot cream mixture until completely dissolved.
4. Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or Until set.
5. Serve with fresh fruit, fruit coulis, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tip: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is another classic dessert that falls into easy dessert recipes. With layers of tender biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, this dessert is a crowdpleaser with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
For the biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter that is cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
For the filling:
4 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Take a baking sheet and parchment paper and line them together.
2. whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the milk, stirring just until a dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming 8 biscuits.
6. Bake for 1215 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
7. mix the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
8. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
9. To assemble, split the biscuits and layer with strawberries and whipped cream.
Tip: For a twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries for a subtle tang.
Easy Chocolate Brownies
Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream, and this recipe is one of the most straightforward, easy dessert recipes. With a crisp top and a gooey centre, these brownies will quickly become a household favourite.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the melted butter and sugar in a medium bowl.
3. Beat the eggs individually, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well-mixed.
5. Pour the batter into the pre-heated baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 2025 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Let the brownies cool down while they’re in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Tip: Top with chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavour.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a comforting dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for using leftover rice. It’s one of those easy dessert recipes that require just a few ingredients but deliver a creamy and satisfying result.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups milk, divided
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Tip: Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a comforting dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for using leftover rice. It’s one of those easy dessert recipes that require just a few ingredients but deliver a creamy and satisfying result.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups milk, divided
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rice and reduce heat to low. Then cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. combine the cooked rice with 1 1/2 cups of milk, sugar, and salt in another saucepan. Cook over medium heat, while stirring continually, until its thick and creamy, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir the remaining 1/2 cup of milk, beaten egg, and butter. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring continually.
4. Take off from heat and stir with vanilla extract.
5. Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with ground cinnamon if desired.
Tip: Add raisins or dried fruit for a traditional touch.
Apple Crumble
Apple crumble is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall but delicious year-round. One of the best easy dessert recipes, it combines tender spiced apples with a buttery crumb topping for a truly irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
3. combine the flour, oats, and brown sugar in another bowl. Stir with melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
5. Bake for 4045 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tip: Substitute pears or berries for the apples for a different twist.
Vanilla Ice Cream (NoChurn)
Making homemade ice cream doesn’t have to be complicated. This no-churn vanilla ice cream is one of the easiest dessert recipes. With just three ingredients, you can have creamy, delicious ice cream without an ice cream maker.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into either a loaf pan or a freezersafe container.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
5. Scoop and serve as is, or add your favourite toppings.
Tip: Mix chocolate chips, cookie crumbs, or fruit for a customized flavour.
Conclusion
These easy dessert recipes are the way to go when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick no-bake treat, a classic like a tiramisu or banana bread, or something rich and indulgent like chocolate mousse or brownies, there’s an easy dessert recipe here. The beauty of easy dessert recipes is that they allow you to enjoy homemade goodness without the stress, making them perfect for both novice bakers and experienced chefs alike. So, the next time you need a sweet treat, remember that these easy dessert recipes are just what you need to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.
