Are you a beginner in the kitchen, but still want to impress your friends and family with delicious desserts? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for those just starting out. From classic treats like cheesecake and apple crisp, to innovative creations like mug cakes and ice cream in a bag, these easy dessert recipes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for desserts that are not only delicious but also simple to make. Whether you’re short on time or just want to try something new, these recipes are perfect for beginners of all ages and skill levels. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking!
Chocolate Mug Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent treat that’s ready in just minutes! This chocolate mug cake is perfect for a quick dessert fix or as a pick-me-up snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract to the mug. Whisk until smooth.
3. If using, add 1-2 chocolate chips on top of the batter.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds (depending on your microwave).
5. Remove from microwave and let cool for a few minutes. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1:15 – 1:30 minutes
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Looking for a sweet treat that’s quick and easy to make? These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect solution! With just peanut butter, oats, and honey, you can’t go wrong.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and honey. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add oats to the peanut butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Bake Cheesecake
A classic dessert with a twist – this no-bake cheesecake is creamy, rich, and indulgent without the hassle of baking!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add in the softened butter and stir until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
5. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, beating until combined.
6. Beat in the vanilla extract.
7. Fold in the heavy whipping cream until well combined.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake cheesecake is ready when you are!
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
A classic dessert gets a new twist with this layered strawberry shortcake trifle. Layers of sweet biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream come together to create a show-stopping treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
2. Press mixture into a 9-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Allow biscuit to cool completely. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
4. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in sliced strawberries and confectioners’ sugar (if using).
5. Assemble the trifle by layering biscuit cubes, whipped strawberry mixture, and additional biscuits. Repeat for desired layers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Pudding
A classic Southern dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser! This banana pudding recipe is a simple yet rich treat that combines ripe bananas, creamy pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 package (12-16 cookies) Nilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in milk, whisking until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and sliced bananas.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Top with crushed Nilla wafers and dollop with whipped heavy cream (optional).
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Apple Crisp
Easy Apple Crisp: A deliciously simple dessert perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired!
5-Minute Chocolate Mousse
A rich and decadent dessert that’s surprisingly quick to prepare, this 5-minute chocolate mousse is perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
4. Fold the cooled chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Lemon Bars
Lemon Bars: A Bright and Tangy Treat
These sweet and tangy lemon bars are perfect for springtime or any time you need a burst of citrus flavor. With a shortbread crust, a lemon curd filling, and a layer of powdered sugar on top, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and powdered sugar in a large bowl.
5. Pour lemon mixture over baked crust and smooth top.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-44 minutes
Oreo Icebox Cake
This no-bake Oreo icebox cake is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Layers of crushed Oreos, whipped cream, and sweet vanilla pudding come together to create a rich and creamy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups crushed Oreos
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1 1/2 cups milk
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and sugar.
2. Whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the Oreo mixture until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. In a 9×13-inch pan, create a layer of the Oreo mixture. Top with half of the prepared pudding and smooth out.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the Oreo mixture on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Pineapple Dump Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of potlucks and gatherings everywhere. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a warm, golden-brown cake filled with sweet pineapple goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (20 oz) can of crushed pineapple
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the cake mix and stir until a thick batter forms.
4. Add the vanilla extract and stir again.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Ice Cream in a Bag
Make your own delicious homemade ice cream without an ice cream maker or special equipment. This fun and easy recipe uses a bag, salt, and shaking to create a creamy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup rock salt
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine the whipping cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
2. Add the vanilla extract to the mixture.
3. Pack the crushed ice around the edges of the bag, leaving enough room for the mixture.
4. Sprinkle the rock salt over the ice.
5. Shake the bag vigorously for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
6. Stop shaking the bag and open it to find your homemade ice cream!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Note: Be sure to handle the bags carefully when shaking them, as they can become very cold.
Microwave Fudge
A classic treat that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe yields a rich, creamy fudge perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, sugar, and corn syrup.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stirring every 10 seconds until smooth and melted.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Remove from microwave and stir in butter until combined.
5. Pour into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: 30 seconds + 10 seconds x 3 = 40 seconds
Rice Krispie Treats
Classic Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
These chewy marshmallow treats are a childhood favorite that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of these tasty treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallow creme
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: food coloring, sprinkles, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallow creme and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation: 10 minutes
– Cooking: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
– Total Time: 10 minutes
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening until fully incorporated.
4. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
5. Place the coated strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply let the chocolate set in the fridge before serving.
Angel Food Cake with Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this heavenly angel food cake, infused with sweet and tangy berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour into a medium bowl.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in sifted flour and melted butter until no streaks remain.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before slicing and serving with mixed berries.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Peach Cobbler
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic summer dessert featuring juicy peaches and a crispy, buttery crust. This peach cobbler recipe is easy to make and perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to release its juices.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the peach mixture in the dish and dot with melted butter.
4. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit the top of the dish. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
5. Brush the top with heavy cream and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Dip
This creamy dip combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of traditional pie, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and no baking required, this recipe is sure to become a fall favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Chopped nuts or whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, beating until smooth and creamy.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold with chopped nuts or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Nutella Stuffed Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft, chewy cookies filled with a rich Nutella surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 6-8 Tbsp Nutella
– Optional: chopped hazelnuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Place 1-2 Tbsp Nutella in the indentation.
7. Fold the dough over the Nutella, forming a ball shape. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Blueberry Crumble Bars
Sweet and tangy blueberries are paired with a crunchy oat topping in these scrumptious bars, perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together blueberries, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
5. Top the blueberry mixture with the oat topping.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Raspberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Raspberry Chocolate Chip Blondies: A Sweet Treat
These chewy blondies combine the sweetness of chocolate chips with the tartness of raspberries, creating a delicious and unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and raspberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for some sweet treats to satisfy your dessert cravings? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make dessert recipes is perfect for beginners. From classic treats like chocolate cake and strawberry shortcake, to creative twists like peanut butter cookies and pumpkin pie dip, there’s something for everyone. These simple recipes require minimal ingredients and steps, making them a great option for those new to baking or looking for a quick fix. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and decadent or light and fruity, these easy dessert recipes are sure to hit the spot.
