Desserts are the perfect way to end a meal on a high note, celebrate special moments, or indulge in a little sweetness. Whether you’re looking for quick treats, showstopping cakes, or healthy alternatives, this guide covers everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.
25+ Best dessert recipes
1. Double Cookie Peanut Butter Pie
Cookie lovers rejoice! This no-bake Peanut Butter Pie has an Oreo crust and is loaded with chocolate chip cookie chunks in the filling. Topped with whipped cream and mini cookies, it’s ready in 20 minutes (plus chilling). The ultimate potluck dessert that serves 10-12. Pro tip: Freeze for an ice cream pie texture!
2. Lucky Charms Cupcakes
These magically delicious Lucky Charms Cupcakes are funfetti vanilla cupcakes topped with marshmallow frosting and cereal sprinkles! Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, birthdays, or unicorn-themed parties. Ready in 35 minutes, they’re a kid-approved treat that’s sure to bring smiles. The marshmallow buttercream tastes just like the milk after eating Lucky Charms! Easily made with a box mix for shortcuts.
3. Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Next-level cookies with a gooey caramel surprise inside! These soft-baked chocolate chip cookies hide a melty caramel center for the ultimate indulgence. Ready in 25 minutes, they’re perfect for gifting, bake sales, or cookie cravings. The sea salt sprinkle balances the sweetness beautifully. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made gluten-free. Pro tip: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for next-level deliciousness!
4. Peanut Butter Meltaway Cookies
These melt-in-your-mouth Peanut Butter Cookies literally dissolve on your tongue! Made with cornstarch for ultra-tenderness, they’re lightly crisp outside and soft inside. Ready in 22 minutes, they’re perfect for lunchboxes, cookie exchanges, or peanut butter cravings. The simple 6-ingredient dough comes together quickly. Dip in chocolate for extra decadence!
5. Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake
Fall dessert made easy! This Caramel Apple Dump Cake layers spiced apples, pecans, and caramel under a golden cake topping. Just dump and bake for 50 minutes – no mixing required! Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy nights. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made gluten-free with an alternative cake mix. The perfect last-minute dessert that tastes like you spent hours baking!
6. Cinnamon Roll Cake
This gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the best of cinnamon rolls and coffee cake in one irresistible dessert! A soft vanilla cake base swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with cream cheese glaze. Bakes in 40 minutes – perfect for brunch, potlucks, or holiday mornings. The pull-apart texture makes it fun to serve. Pro tip: Serve warm for maximum melt-in-your-mouth goodness! Easily made ahead and reheated.
7. No-Bake Chocolate Honeycomb Bars
These crunchy No-Bake Chocolate Honeycomb Bars taste just like homemade Crunchie bars! Layers of golden honeycomb covered in rich chocolate – ready in 20 minutes (plus setting time). Perfect for gifts, holiday trays, or sweet cravings. The baking soda reaction creates that signature airy texture without special equipment. Store in the fridge for the perfect snap. Gluten-free adaptable!
7. Chocolate Covered Strawberry Nutella Brownies
Decadence overload! These fudgy Nutella Brownies get topped with fresh strawberries and a chocolate ganache drizzle. The perfect Valentine’s Day dessert that’s ready in 50 minutes. The strawberry-Nutella-chocolate combo is pure magic. Easily made gluten-free with 1:1 flour. Pro tip: Use heart-shaped cookie cutters for a romantic presentation! Great for date nights, Galentine’s parties, or any chocolate emergency.
8. Caramel Apple Pie Dessert Pizza
Pizza night just got sweet! This Caramel Apple Pie Pizza features a sugar cookie crust topped with spiced apples, streusel, and caramel drizzle. Ready in 45 minutes – perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving dessert. The individual slices make serving a breeze. Kids will love decorating their pieces! Easily made with store-bought cookie dough for shortcuts. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate experience.
9. Peppermint Bark Truffles
Christmas in every bite! These Peppermint Bark Truffles combine white chocolate, dark chocolate, and crushed candy canes for the ultimate holiday treat. No baking required – ready in 30 minutes (plus chilling). Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gifts, or Christmas parties. The layered colors make them gorgeous on dessert trays. Store in the freezer for make-ahead convenience. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made dairy-free with vegan chocolate.
10. Brown Sugar Cookies with Nutella Frosting
These soft and chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are taken to the next level with a luscious Nutella frosting! The molasses-rich cookies have the perfect chew, while the two-ingredient Nutella frosting adds chocolate-hazelnut bliss. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re perfect for birthdays, bake sales, or when you need a chocolate fix. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made gluten-free with 1:1 flour. Pro tip: Add chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch!
11. Peanut Butter Cookie Microwave Mug Cake
Single-serving dessert emergency solved! This Peanut Butter Mug Cake tastes like a warm peanut butter cookie and cooks in just 90 seconds. Made with pantry staples, it’s perfect for late-night cravings, dorm rooms, or quick treats. Top with chocolate chips or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence. Gluten-free adaptable with almond flour. The easiest way to enjoy fresh-baked flavor without turning on the oven!
12. Healthy Mini Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Pies
Guilt-free indulgence alert! These Mini Chocolate Peanut Butter Pies feature a date-nut crust filled with protein-packed peanut butter mousse and dark chocolate. No-bake, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free – ready in 20 minutes (plus chilling). Perfect for healthy snacks, lunchboxes, or portion-controlled treats. The individual portions make them great for parties, too! Keep frozen for a cool, creamy texture.
13. Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Dip
Holiday nostalgia in dip form! This Christmas Tree Cake Dip recreates the iconic snack cake flavors in a creamy, shareable dessert. Mix cream cheese, vanilla pudding, and crushed cakes for the ultimate festive treat. Ready in 15 minutes – perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or Santa’s snack plate. Serve with vanilla wafers or fruit for dipping. Kids love helping decorate with sprinkles and a star-shaped cookie!
14. Chocolate Raspberry Coconut Macaroons
Elegant yet easy! These Chocolate Raspberry Macarons combine chewy coconut with tart freeze-dried raspberries, dipped in dark chocolate. Naturally gluten-free and ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, bridal showers, or edible gifts. The raspberry powder adds vibrant color and flavor without moisture. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week (if they last that long!)
15. Homemade Golden Oreos
Skip the store-bought version with these better-than-the-box Homemade Golden Oreos! Buttery vanilla cookies sandwich a sweet cream cheese filling for the ultimate nostalgic treat. Completely customizable – make them thicker, add lemon zest, or dip in chocolate! Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or DIY gift boxes. Kids love helping assemble these fun, bakery-style cookies that taste just like childhood memories. Ready in 45 minutes with simple ingredients.
16. Funfetti Angel Food Cake
This light-as-air Funfetti Angel Food Cake is a colorful celebration in every bite! Packed with rainbow sprinkles and topped with whipped cream, it’s perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or summer parties. The secret ingredient (hint: it makes it extra fluffy!) ensures perfect texture every time. Naturally fat-free and lighter than traditional cakes. Ready in 1 hour – serve with fresh berries for extra magic!
17. Be Our Guest Grey Stuff
Disney fans, rejoice! These “Grey Stuff” Cookies are inspired by Beauty and the Beast—and they’re just as delicious as they look! A rich chocolate cookie base is topped with vanilla buttercream frosting and edible pearls for an elegant, storybook-worthy treat. Perfect for Disney-themed parties, birthdays, or just because—after all, “it’s delicious!” Ready in 30 minutes, these whimsical cookies are sure to impress kids and adults alike.
18. Kolachy Cookies
These buttery Kolachy Cookies (Koláčky) are a European delicacy with sweet jam, poppy seed, or nut fillings nestled in tender pastry. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or family traditions, they’re easier than they look! The flaky dough and fruit-filled centers make them irresistible. Ready in 1 hour (including chill time) – a crowd-pleasing heritage recipe. Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience!
19. Summer Berry Puff Pastry
Summer dessert made easy with this stunning Berry Puff Pastry! Flaky, buttery layers topped with whipped cream and fresh berries – ready in 25 minutes with store-bought pastry. Perfect for last-minute guests, brunches, or al fresco dinners. The honey drizzle enhances the berries’ natural sweetness. Customizable with any seasonal fruit – try peaches in August or pears in fall!
20. Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug
Craving dessert in minutes? This Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug delivers warm cinnamon apples with a buttery oat topping – ready in just 5 minutes! Perfect for single-serving indulgence with no oven needed. Gluten-free adaptable with oat flour. Top with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate cozy treat. Great for dorm rooms, late-night cravings, or quick weeknight desserts!
21. Peanut Butter Cup Cheeseball
This Peanut Butter Cup Cheeseball is the ultimate party dessert dip! Creamy peanut butter and cream cheese rolled in chopped Reese’s cups and chocolate chips. Serve with graham crackers or fruit for a fun, shareable treat. Ready in 15 minutes (plus chilling) – perfect for game day, potlucks, or holiday parties. Kids love helping decorate this sweet twist on savory cheeseballs!
22. Easy Peach Cobbler with Bisquick
Summer simplicity at its finest! This 5-ingredient Peach Cobbler uses Bisquick for a fluffy, golden topping over juicy peaches. Ready in 45 minutes – perfect for last-minute guests or weeknight desserts. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for classic comfort. Customizable with other fruits like berries or apples. The easiest homemade cobbler you’ll ever make!
23. Easy Strawberry Breakfast Pastries
These Strawberry Breakfast Pastries are flaky, fruity perfection! Puff pastry filled with cream cheese and fresh strawberries, then drizzled with sweet glaze. Ready in 30 minutes – ideal for brunch, baby showers, or sweet mornings. Easier than Pop-Tarts and 100x more delicious! Customizable with other jams or Nutella. Kids love these bakery-worthy treats that feel special but require minimal effort.
24. No-Bake Almond Joy Pound Cake
All the flavor of pound cake without baking! This No-Bake Almond Joy Pound Cake layers graham crackers, coconut pudding, chocolate, and almonds for decadent, tropical flavor. Chills in 4 hours (mostly hands-off) – perfect for make-ahead parties or summer potlucks. Gluten-free adaptable with alternative crackers. A cool, creamy alternative to traditional baked desserts that tastes like an Almond Joy candy bar in cake form!
25. No-Bake Banana Split Ice Cream Cake
This showstopping Banana Split Ice Cream Cake layers vanilla ice cream, fresh bananas, strawberries, pineapple, and hot fudge for the ultimate frozen dessert. No baking required – just layer and freeze! Perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or anytime you crave classic banana split flavors. The crushed peanut and cherry topping adds nostalgic charm. Ready in 20 minutes active time (plus freezing). A fun, family-friendly project that’s sure to impress!
26. Nutella Raspberry Crumble Cake
Breakfast or dessert? This Nutella Raspberry Crumble Cake works for both! Moist vanilla cake swirled with Nutella and tart raspberries, topped with a buttery crumble. Bakes in 45 minutes – perfect for brunch, potlucks, or afternoon tea. The sweet-tart balance makes it irresistible. Serve warm with whipped cream for extra indulgence. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made with frozen raspberries year-round.
27. Chocolate Peanut Butter No-Bake Cheerios
Healthy-ish snacking just got delicious! These No-Bake Cheerios Bars combine peanut butter, chocolate, and coconut for energy-packed treats. Ready in 15 minutes (plus chilling) – great for lunchboxes, hiking snacks, or post-workout fuel. Gluten-free, adaptable, and packed with whole grains. Kids love making (and eating!) these crunchy, chewy bars. Customize with dried fruit or nuts for variety.
28. No-Bake Chocolate Honeycomb Bars
These decadent No-Bake Chocolate Honeycomb Bars feature a crunchy honeycomb center coated in rich chocolate, like homemade Crunchie bars! Ready in 20 minutes (plus setting time), they’re perfect for gifts, parties, or sweet cravings. The golden syrup creates an authentic honeycomb texture without special equipment. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made dairy-free. Store in the fridge for a perfect snap!
29. Cheesecake Stuffed Cinnamon Apple Cookie Cups
Two desserts in one! These Apple Cookie Cups have spiced cinnamon cookie shells filled with creamy cheesecake and apple pie filling. Bakes in 30 minutes – perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy nights. The individual portions make them great for parties. Vegetarian-friendly and easily made with store-bought pie filling for shortcuts. Serve warm with caramel drizzle for extra decadence!
30. Caramel-Coated Pecan Pie Cake Balls
Pecan pie meets cake pops in these irresistible Caramel Pecan Cake Balls! Spiced cake crumbs mixed with pecan pie filling, dipped in caramel and chocolate. Perfect for holiday gifts, Thanksgiving desserts, or football parties. Ready in 1 hour (mostly chilling time) – no baking required after the initial cake! The crunchy pecan topping adds perfect texture. Store in the fridge for easy make-ahead treats.