Desserts That Start Simple and End With “Can I Have That Recipe?”

Easy dessert recipes are perfect when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and still deliver great flavor. Whether for a weeknight treat or a last-minute gathering, quick desserts can save the day.

From no-bake bars and cookies to simple cakes and fruity favorites, there’s a wide range of options. Many of these desserts use pantry staples, so you won’t need to run to the store. They’re great for beginners or anyone who just wants a low-effort treat.

You’ll find recipes that work well for all kinds of occasions, big or small. Whether you prefer chocolate, fruit, or something creamy, there’s something easy to try. These desserts prove that simple can still be really good.

Instant Pot Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

This recipe brings together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the smooth texture of a classic crème brûlée. Using an Instant Pot speeds things up while still giving you that dense, custard-like center. The caramelized sugar topping cracks just right under a spoon. It’s a great choice when you want something a little fancy without a lot of extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Layered with fresh raspberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and a light graham cracker crumble, these parfaits are as easy to assemble as they are to enjoy. They’re great for small gatherings or when you just want a quick dessert that looks polished. The sweet-tart fruit balances the richness perfectly. You can prep them ahead, too, which is always a win.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Quick and Easy Peach Hand Pies

Golden, flaky pastry wrapped around sweet peach filling makes these hand pies hard to resist. They’re simple to make and don’t require any fancy tools. Great for picnics or a snack on the go, they’re everything you want in a homemade treat with none of the hassle. Bonus: they freeze well for later.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Peach Hand Pies

Easy Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

These homemade cups skip the dairy but keep all the rich, nutty flavor. A quick melt, mix, and chill is all it takes to recreate this classic combo. They’re great for meal prep or just having something sweet tucked in the fridge. Perfect for when you want a little indulgence without a lot of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

This one’s got that sweet and salty thing going on in the best way. Creamy layers, juicy berries, and a crisp pretzel base make it feel nostalgic and fun. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks. Best served cold and made a few hours ahead.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Air Fryer Chocolate Cake

Soft, moist chocolate cake from the air fryer? Yes, it’s totally doable. This recipe gives you bakery-quality results in less time and without heating up the kitchen. Perfect for smaller households or when you’re craving cake but don’t want leftovers. Just the right size and just the right texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Cake

Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

This dessert layers strawberry ice cream, cookies, and whipped topping into something that’s both simple and impressive. It’s freezer-friendly and easy to customize, depending on what you have on hand. Ideal for birthdays, summer parties, or any no-bake kind of day. Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Get the Recipe: Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

All the flavors of an apple pie tucked into a creamy cheesecake base—this one’s got a lot going for it. Warm spices, tender apples, and a buttery crust come together for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s great for holidays or any time you want something a little extra. Tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

These bars are a great way to get that classic strawberry cheesecake vibe without the fuss. Creamy, fruity, and with a nice crumbly base, they hold up well for parties or packed lunches. Cut them into squares and you’ve got an easy, shareable dessert. Chill thoroughly before slicing for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Tart-sweet yellow plums give these bars a unique flavor that stands out from the usual berry versions. A buttery crumb topping and soft base make them perfect with coffee or as a casual dessert. You can make them ahead and store them at room temp for a couple of days. Great for when you want something different but still simple.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Danishes

Flaky pastry and soft spiced apples are always a good match, and this recipe makes it easy to bring them together. Topped with a cinnamon-streusel crumble, these danishes feel bakery-fresh without a long prep time. They’re great for breakfast or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Best served slightly warm.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumble Danishes

Molly Bars

These layered bars are chewy, chocolatey, and a little bit crunchy thanks to a graham cracker base and sweetened condensed milk. They’re kind of nostalgic and super easy to make in one pan. Perfect for bake sales or to keep on hand for snacking. Just slice and store—if they last that long.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

If you like Biscoff, you’re going to love these. The base and streusel topping are buttery and crumbly, with that caramel-spiced cookie flavor baked right in. They’re quick to make and hold up well, so they’re great for gifting or just snacking throughout the week. A little different, in a good way.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

Strawberry Crunch Bars

These bars get their name from the cereal topping that gives them a fun, crispy finish. They’re layered with creamy filling and fresh strawberries, and come together without needing to bake. Kids especially love them, but they’re a hit with adults, too. Best kept chilled for that perfect texture.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Bars

Easy Blueberry Danishes

A quick shortcut with store-bought dough makes these danishes super convenient. Juicy blueberries and a creamy filling give them that homemade bakery look and feel. They’re a favorite for brunch or lazy weekend mornings. Drizzle with glaze for an extra touch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Blueberry Danishes

Banoffee Pie

Bananas, toffee, and whipped cream—this classic combo is always a hit. It’s easy to assemble and doesn’t require baking, which is a bonus when you’re short on time. Great for celebrations or just because. A little flaky sea salt on top goes a long way.
Get the Recipe: Banoffee Pie

Apple Crumb Galette

This rustic tart comes together quickly and doesn’t require a special pan or any fancy techniques. The crumb topping adds texture, and the apple slices bake until tender. It’s a nice option when you want something that looks homemade (because it is!) without too much fuss. Great with a scoop of ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumb Galette

Easy Vegan Mug Brownie

In just a few minutes, you’ve got a warm, gooey brownie ready to enjoy—all without turning on the oven. This version skips the dairy but doesn’t miss on flavor. Perfect for late-night cravings or small-batch desserts. Just mix in a mug and microwave.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Mug Brownie

Cadbury Mini Egg Bark

This bark is fun to make and even better to share. Melty chocolate and crunchy Mini Eggs make it perfect for spring or Easter, but honestly—it works any time of year. No baking required, just melt, spread, chill, and break. A cute and colorful treat with zero hassle.
Get the Recipe: Cadbury Mini Egg Bark

5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse Recipe

Rich, fluffy, and dairy-free, this mousse feels like a treat without needing much effort. Just five ingredients and a blender gets it done. The coconut adds a subtle flavor that pairs well with dark chocolate. Chill before serving for best results.
Get the Recipe: 5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse Recipe

Easy Peach Cake Recipe

Fresh or canned peaches both work well in this soft, lightly sweet cake. It comes together in one bowl, which makes cleanup easy. A good option for brunch or a last-minute dessert. You can serve it warm or cold—either way, it’s a hit.
Get the Recipe: Easy Peach Cake Recipe