Are you looking for a sweet and satisfying way to end your next gathering? Look no further! Mini desserts are all the rage, and for good reason. Not only do they offer a variety of flavors and textures, but they’re also incredibly easy to make in large quantities. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious mini dessert recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next party or get-together.
From rich and decadent chocolate treats to bright and citrusy fruit-based desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering of friends or a larger celebration like a birthday party or holiday feast, these mini desserts are the perfect way to cap off the night with a sweet treat that’s sure to please.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes and provide step-by-step instructions for making them. From ingredients to cooking times, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get baking, and get ready to impress your guests with these adorable and delicious mini desserts!
Mini Chocolate Lava Cakes
These bite-sized chocolate cakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a gooey center and a crispy exterior, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 ounce (28g) high-quality dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter 6 mini muffin cups and dust with sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the batter until smooth.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it. With a crumbly crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries on top, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined. Press into each liner.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; beat until combined.
4. Spoon cheesecake mixture into crust-lined liners.
5. Top each bite with a slice of strawberry.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Tartlets
Brighten up your dessert menu with these tangy and sweet tartlets, perfect for a warm spring evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and sugar. Brush the mixture evenly onto each square of pastry.
5. Top with blueberries and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Place tartlets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcake Bites
These bite-sized red velvet cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Moist and flavorful, they’re perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Key Lime Pies
Mini Key Lime Pies: A Bite-Sized Delight
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a sweet surprise. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping up these adorable pies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
4. Press mixture into mini muffin tin cups.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest in a small bowl.
7. Pour filling over baked crusts and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until set.
8. Allow pies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-19 minutes
Raspberry Mousse Cups
A light and airy dessert perfect for warm weather, these Raspberry Mousse Cups are a refreshing treat that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– Whipped cream and additional raspberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and raspberry jam. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Stir in the pureed raspberries.
5. Pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until set.
7. Top with whipped cream and additional raspberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation time)
Tiramisu Shooters
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized Tiramisu shooters, packed with the perfect balance of coffee and creamy mascarpone.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot of espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1 ounce Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
– Whipped cream and cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the shot of espresso to the mascarpone mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Pour the Tiramisu mixture into small glasses or shot glasses.
6. Drizzle Kahlúa over the top of each shooter.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffles
Experience the perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate in these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Place coated truffles back onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow chocolate to set.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and refrigeration)
Mini Apple Pies
These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a dessert for your next gathering. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be enjoying warm, flaky pies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pie crusts (about 12-15 crusts)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized apples)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the diced apples to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the dry mixture.
4. Unroll the pie crusts and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture onto each crust.
5. Fold the crust over the filling and press edges together to seal.
6. Place pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each pie.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pistachio Baklava Bites
Pistachio Baklava Bites: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
These bite-sized treats combine the rich flavors of pistachios and honey with the crispy texture of phyllo dough, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pistachios, sugar, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the pistachio mixture, starting and ending with phyllo dough.
5. Brush tops of bites with melted butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Shortcakes
Elevate your dessert game with this delightful combination of sweet strawberries, flaky shortcake, and rich chocolate. Perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
2. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Gradually add heavy cream, mixing until just combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Allow shortcakes to cool completely. Dip each shortcake in melted chocolate (melted in a double boiler or microwave) and place on a parchment-lined surface.
5. Top with sliced strawberries. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes for shortcakes, plus melting time for chocolate.
Mini Coconut Macaroons
Mini Coconut Macaroons are bite-sized wonders that pack a flavor punch. These chewy morsels are perfect for snacking on the go or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg white
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg white, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven; let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramel Pecan Tassies
Experience the perfect blend of crunchy pecans and gooey caramel in these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together pecans, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow tassies to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Banana Pudding Cups
These bite-sized treats are a perfect dessert for any occasion. With layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy cookies, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package (12-15 cookies) Nilla wafers, crushed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk until smooth.
2. Fold in sliced bananas.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pudding mixture into small cups or ramekins.
4. Top each cup with a few crushed cookies and a drizzle of melted butter.
5. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (prep time: 10 minutes, chill time: 20 minutes)
White Chocolate Raspberry Phyllo Cups
These bite-sized phyllo cups are filled with a rich white chocolate and raspberry mixture, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Cut phyllo into squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. Place a spoonful of white chocolate mixture onto the center of each square.
5. Top with a few fresh raspberries and fold the phyllo into triangles or cups.
6. Brush tops with honey and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies
These bite-sized whoopie pies are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin spice season. With a moist pumpkin cake, creamy pumpkin buttercream, and a hint of cinnamon, these mini treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Pumpkin buttercream frosting (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among mini muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool completely before filling with pumpkin buttercream frosting.
Pumpkin Buttercream Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Matcha Green Tea Mochi Bites
Transform traditional Japanese mochi into a delicious and unique dessert by infusing it with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Optional: red bean paste or ice cream for filling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and granulated sugar.
2. Add matcha powder and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Flatten each portion slightly, then fill with red bean paste or ice cream (if using).
6. Fold and shape the mochi into bite-sized balls.
7. Heat a non-stick pan with vegetable oil over medium heat. Cook mochi balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Matcha Green Tea Mochi Bites!
Mini S’mores Tarts
Elevate your s’mores game with these bite-sized, mini tarts that pack all the flavor of the original campfire treat into a neat and tidy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place a marshmallow in the center of each square. Top with a few chocolate chips and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
4. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with melted butter.
5. Arrange tarts on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli Cups, filled with a creamy hazelnut cream and topped with a velvety chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and additional hazelnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and hazelnut spread until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the butter mixture until well combined.
4. Stuff each cannoli shell with the hazelnut cream, filling to the top.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the filled cannoli cups.
7. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the ganache (if using).
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Mini Mango Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of mango with the creamy texture of panna cotta, perfect for a hot summer evening. Miniature in size, but big on flavor, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the gelatin mixture. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, top each panna cotta with a spoonful of diced mango.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these 20 delicious mini dessert recipes! From classic treats like chocolate lava cakes and cheesecake bites, to unique flavors like matcha green tea mochi and pumpkin spice whoopie pies, there’s something for everyone. Miniature versions of favorite desserts are perfect for parties, as they’re easy to grab and go, and offer a variety of flavors without overwhelming the palate. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
