15 Easy Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings

Craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? You’re in luck! Easy desserts are the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle.

These quick and simple recipes are ideal for busy weeknights, unexpected guests, or just a cozy evening treat.

Let’s explore a delightful array of easy-to-make desserts that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to indulge in some sweet simplicity!

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies

Who can resist the warm, gooey delight of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies? These cookies are crispy on the edges and chewy in the center, packed with melty chocolate chips that make every bite pure bliss. Perfect for a snack, dessert, or a treat with a cup of milk, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 mins10 minsDessertAmericanMixing bowl, baking sheet, oven9

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp hot water
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
  4. Dissolve baking soda in hot water and add to the batter.
  5. Stir in flour, chocolate chips, and nuts (optional).
  6. Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.
  7. Bake for about 10 minutes, until edges are nicely browned.

Serve with: A glass of cold milk
Drink with: Hot chocolate or coffee

2. Rice Krispies Treats

Rice Krispies Treats are a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of childhood fun. These sweet, crunchy bars are quick to make and perfect for any occasion, from lunchbox snacks to party treats.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
10 mins5 minsDessertAmericanLarge pot, baking dish3

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
  3. Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until well coated.
  4. Press mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Let cool and cut into squares.

Serve with: Fresh fruit slices
Drink with: Cold milk or fruit juice

3. No-Bake Cheesecake

This dessert is perfect when you want something sweet without turning on the oven. Its smooth texture and delightful flavor make it an instant hit at any gathering.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
20 mins4 hrs (chill)DessertAmericanMixing bowl, springform pan, refrigerator8

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tbsp sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.
  4. Spread the filling evenly over the crust.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm. Top with cherry pie filling if desired.

Serve with: Fresh berries or a berry compote
Drink with: Sparkling water or a light dessert wine

4. Brownies

These decadent squares are packed with chocolatey goodness, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 mins30 minsDessertAmericanMixing bowl, baking dish, oven8

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
  3. Beat in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
  4. Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the pan.

Serve with: Vanilla ice cream
Drink with: A glass of milk or coffee

5. Chocolate Mousse

Light, airy, and incredibly decadent, chocolate mousse is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. This silky smooth treat is perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious after-dinner indulgence.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
20 mins2 hrs (chill)DessertFrenchMixing bowls, electric mixer, refrigerator5

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sugar

Instructions:

  1. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Let cool slightly.
  2. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks until thick and pale. Stir into the chocolate mixture.
  3. In another bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks and fold into the chocolate mixture.
  4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the chocolate mixture.
  5. Spoon into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Serve with: Whipped cream and fresh berries
Drink with: Espresso or a dessert wine

6. Banana Bread

Banana bread is a classic comfort food, perfect for using up overripe bananas. Moist, sweet, and with a hint of cinnamon, this bread is wonderful for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 mins60 minsBreakfast/DessertAmericanMixing bowl, loaf pan, oven8

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas and melted butter.
  3. Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla.
  4. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir.
  5. Add the flour and mix until just incorporated.
  6. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
  7. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Serve with: A pat of butter or cream cheese
Drink with: Hot tea or coffee

7. Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s perfect for autumn but delicious any time of the year.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
20 mins40 minsDessertAmericanMixing bowl, baking dish, oven10

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups sliced apples
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over apples.
  4. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.

Serve with: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Drink with: Hot apple cider or a cup of tea

8. Pudding

Rich and creamy pudding is a timeless dessert that’s simple to make and always satisfying. Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla, or butterscotch, homemade pudding is a delightful treat.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
10 mins10 minsDessertAmericanSaucepan, mixing bowls, whisk, refrigerator6

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter.
  4. Pour into individual serving dishes and refrigerate until chilled.

Serve with: Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream
Drink with: Cold milk or a cup of coffee

9. Fruit Salad

Bright, colorful, and refreshing, fruit salad is the perfect way to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits in one bowl. It’s great for a healthy snack, breakfast, or a light dessert.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 minsN/ADessert/SideGlobalMixing bowl, knife, cutting board6

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 cup pineapple, diced
  • 1 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup grapes, halved
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the prepared fruits.
  2. Drizzle with honey if desired and gently toss to combine.
  3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve with: Yogurt or cottage cheese
Drink with: Sparkling water or fruit juice

10. Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate covered strawberries are an elegant and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in something sweet. The combination of juicy strawberries and rich chocolate is irresistible.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 mins10 minsDessertAmericanDouble boiler or microwave, parchment paper2

Ingredients:

  • 1 pint fresh strawberries
  • 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
  2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
  3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
  4. Place on parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set.

Serve with: Whipped cream
Drink with: Champagne or a glass of red wine

11. Ice Cream Sundaes

Ice cream sundaes are a delightful way to customize your dessert. With endless topping combinations, they are fun for kids and adults alike. Perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a sweet treat.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
10 minsN/ADessertAmericanIce cream scoops, bowlsVaries

Ingredients:

  • Ice cream (any flavor)
  • Chocolate syrup
  • Caramel sauce
  • Whipped cream
  • Chopped nuts
  • Maraschino cherries
  • Sprinkles

Instructions:

  1. Scoop ice cream into bowls.
  2. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and caramel sauce.
  3. Top with whipped cream, chopped nuts, sprinkles, and a cherry.

Serve with: Fresh fruit or cookies
Drink with: Milkshake or soda

12. Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat, loved for their rich, nutty flavor and tender, crumbly texture. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
15 mins10 minsDessertAmericanMixing bowl, baking sheet, oven7

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup flour (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
  3. Stir in baking soda, salt, and flour if using.
  4. Roll dough into balls and place on a baking sheet. Flatten with a fork.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes, until edges are set.

Serve with: A glass of milk
Drink with: Hot chocolate or coffee

13. Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious lemon filling. These bars are bright and refreshing, making them a lovely dessert for any occasion.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
20 mins40 minsDessertAmericanMixing bowl, baking dish, oven9

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix butter, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 cups flour. Press into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm and golden.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, and zest.
  5. Pour over the baked crust and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
  6. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar.

Serve with: Fresh berries or whipped cream
Drink with: Iced tea or lemonade

14. Mug Cakes

Mug cakes are a quick and easy way to enjoy a warm, homemade dessert in just a few minutes. These single-serving cakes are made right in the microwave, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
5 mins1 minDessertAmericanMicrowave, mug8

Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp flour
  • 4 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a microwave-safe mug, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
  2. Add egg, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake has risen and is set.

Serve with: A scoop of ice cream or whipped cream
Drink with: Hot tea or coffee

15. S’mores

S’mores are a beloved campfire treat that combines graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows into a gooey, melty delight. Perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings, they are simple to make and always a hit.

Recipe

Prep TimeCook TimeCourseCuisineEquipmentNo. of Ingredients
5 mins5 minsDessertAmericanCampfire or oven, skewers3

Ingredients:

  • Graham crackers
  • Chocolate bars
  • Marshmallows

Instructions:

  1. Roast marshmallows over a campfire or under a broiler until golden and melty.
  2. Place a piece of chocolate on a graham cracker, top with the hot marshmallow, and sandwich with another graham cracker.
  3. Enjoy immediately while the chocolate is still melty.

Serve with: Fresh fruit or nuts
Drink with: Hot chocolate or milk

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