These Easy Desserts Deserve a Standing Ovation

Whether you’re a pie fan, a chocolate lover, or someone who just wants an easy dessert that looks impressive, this list has something worth trying. These recipes cover everything from old-school sugar cream pie to no-bake cakes you can pull together without turning on the oven. If you’ve got fresh fruit to use, you’ll find a few tarts and galettes that let it shine without much effort. And if you like rich chocolate desserts, don’t worry—we didn’t forget about you.

There’s something here for every level of baker, from beginner-friendly shortcuts to bakes that feel like they came from a fancy shop. A few of these pies and tarts come from traditional recipes, while others play around with ingredients and techniques in fun ways. Some slice clean and pretty, others are better scooped out warm with ice cream. All of them were picked because they’re worth making more than once.

No need to wait for a special occasion these desserts are the reason to make one.

Sugar Cream Pie

This old-fashioned Indiana favorite features a rich, creamy filling made with pantry staples like sugar, cream, and butter. It’s smooth, sweet, and baked in a flaky crust without any eggs. Perfect for anyone who likes a simple dessert that doesn’t overcomplicate things. Serve it cold or at room temperature with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cream Pie

Elegant Apple Tart

This crisp and golden apple tart is all about balance—thinly sliced apples arranged neatly over a buttery base, lightly glazed for that soft sheen. It’s simple to put together but always gives off a polished look. Best served slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of something creamy on the side.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Apple Tart

Quick and Easy Pizookie

Part cookie, part pizza, this warm skillet dessert is soft in the center with crisp edges. You can make it with basic cookie dough and bake it in a cast iron pan or small baking dish. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for that gooey-meets-cold combo. It’s a favorite for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Pizookie

Peach Almond Tart

A buttery crust filled with sweet peaches and a hint of almond makes this tart feel extra special. The nutty base adds texture while the fruit brings in natural sweetness. It’s a great option for when peaches are in season and you want something that looks a little impressive without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Peach Almond Tart

Strawberry Jam Tart

This tart makes the most of strawberry jam—rich, sticky, and sweet, sitting on a crumbly shortcrust base. It’s a quick option that looks polished, especially with a simple lattice topping. Perfect for an easy dessert or a cozy afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Jam Tart

Heavenly chocolate tart with almonds

Rich chocolate filling meets the crunch of toasted almonds in this dense, sliceable tart. It’s one of those recipes that comes together quickly but feels like you spent hours on it. A little sea salt on top gives it a nice finish.
Get the Recipe: Heavenly chocolate tart with almonds

Nectarine Slab Pie

This sheet pan-style pie is perfect for feeding a crowd. Fresh nectarines are layered over pie crust and baked until bubbly and golden. You can cut it into squares for serving, just like a bar cookie. It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or summer birthdays.
Get the Recipe: Nectarine Slab Pie

No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

No oven needed here—just layers of rich chocolate with the bright crunch of pistachios. It sets beautifully in the fridge and slices clean. Great for when you want something fuss-free but still a bit striking.
Get the Recipe: No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

Chocolate Mousse Tart

This one’s all about smooth, airy mousse set inside a crisp tart shell. It’s surprisingly simple to pull together and looks gorgeous with a dusting of cocoa or some shaved chocolate on top. Chill it well before serving for clean slices.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Mousse Tart

Chocolate Ganache Tart

Dark, glossy ganache in a firm shell—that’s it, and that’s enough. This is one of those minimal-effort, big-impact desserts. A sprinkle of flaky salt or some berries on top gives it that final touch.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Ganache Tart

Mock Apple Pie

Surprisingly, this classic recipe doesn’t use any apples—Ritz crackers or similar stand in for the fruit. The texture and flavor mimic traditional apple pie, thanks to a spiced syrup and flaky crust. It’s a fun twist and a great conversation starter. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Mock Apple Pie

Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free)

Bright and citrusy, these little tartlets are both plant-based and gluten-free, but still pack a ton of flavor. They hold their shape well and have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for parties or afternoon tea.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free)

Classic Bakewell Tart

Frangipane, raspberry jam, and a shortcrust base—that’s the magic of a Bakewell. It’s a British favorite for a reason, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why. The almond and jam combo just works.
Get the Recipe: Classic Bakewell Tart

Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

This recipe blends cheesecake and crumb cake in one pan—soft, creamy, and packed with juicy blueberries. A buttery crumble topping adds crunch to every bite. It’s good cold or at room temperature and works for dessert or brunch. You can use fresh or frozen berries.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Apple Crumb Galette

Think of this as a free-form pie with a rustic crust and a sweet crumb topping. The apples are lightly spiced and piled in the center of a rolled-out dough, then baked until the edges are crisp and golden. You don’t need a pie pan—just a baking sheet. Easy to make and easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumb Galette

Sable Breton Tart for the GBBO

This tart uses a French butter cookie base that’s rich and just slightly crumbly. It holds up beautifully to creamy fillings or fruit toppings. Whether you’re baking along with the show or just want something special, this one fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Sable Breton Tart for the GBBO