17 Ridiculously Easy to Make Desserts That Taste Better Than Store Bought
Why settle for store-bought desserts when you can easily whip up something delicious at home? Homemade desserts not only taste better but also allow you to control the ingredients and flavors.
With just a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you can create mouthwatering treats that impress. This article covers 17 ridiculously easy dessert recipes that are so simple, you'll wonder why you ever relied on store-bought options.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle.
1. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
These no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars are a quick and easy dessert that requires no oven time. Made with a simple combination of graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, and melted chocolate, these bars are rich and satisfying.
They take only 10 minutes to prepare, and then you just let them set in the refrigerator. Perfect for a last-minute treat or a party, they offer a delightful mix of crunchy and creamy textures.
These bars are sure to become a family favorite with their delicious peanut butter and chocolate layers.
2. 5-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse
This 5-ingredient chocolate mousse is a creamy, decadent dessert that’s deceptively easy to make. All you need is chocolate, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Melt the chocolate, whip the cream, fold them together, and chill – it's that simple! The result is a fluffy, rich mousse that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.
Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
3. Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)
Banana ice cream, also known as “nice cream,” is a healthy and easy alternative to traditional ice cream. Simply freeze ripe bananas and blend them until smooth for a creamy, dairy-free treat.
You can customize it with add-ins like chocolate chips, peanut butter, or berries for extra flavor. This dessert is perfect for those looking for a guilt-free indulgence that's quick and easy to prepare.
Best of all, it takes just minutes to make and requires no added sugar.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a classic dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Melt some chocolate, dip fresh strawberries in, and let them set on parchment paper.
You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, and even add toppings like nuts, coconut, or sprinkles. They are perfect for romantic dinners, parties, or just a special treat for yourself.
With minimal effort, you’ll have a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious.
5. No-Bake Cheesecake Cups
No-bake cheesecake cups are a delightful, individual-sized dessert that’s easy to customize. With a graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a topping of your choice, they are a hit every time.
You don’t need an oven – just mix, layer, and chill. Top them with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or caramel for added flavor and texture.
These cups are perfect for parties or when you want a quick, indulgent dessert without the hassle.
6. Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are a tangy, refreshing dessert that’s simple to prepare. With a buttery shortbread crust and a zesty lemon filling, they strike the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Mix the ingredients, bake, and then dust with powdered sugar for a classic look. They’re great for potlucks, picnics, or a light after-dinner treat.
These bars require minimal ingredients and effort but deliver big on flavor.
7. Chocolate Lava Mug Cake
A chocolate lava mug cake is the ultimate quick dessert for chocolate lovers.
Mix a few simple ingredients in a mug, microwave for about a minute, and enjoy a molten chocolate center.
Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth in under five minutes, this single-serving dessert is ideal for solo indulgence. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
It’s a fast, easy, and satisfying dessert without any fuss.
8. Apple Crisp
An apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make.
With sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping, it’s a delicious way to use up leftover fruit.
Mix the ingredients, bake until bubbly, and enjoy a cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall or winter. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic pairing.
This dessert requires minimal effort but delivers a comforting and delicious taste.
9. Frozen Yogurt Bark
Frozen yogurt bark is a refreshing, healthy dessert that takes minutes to prepare. Spread yogurt on a baking sheet, add toppings like berries, nuts, or chocolate chips, and freeze.
Once set, break it into pieces for a fun, easy snack that’s perfect for hot days. It’s customizable, allowing you to mix and match flavors to suit your preferences.
This dessert is great for kids and adults alike, offering a healthy alternative to ice cream.
10. 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
These 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies are a quick and easy treat for any peanut butter lover. All you need is peanut butter, sugar, and an egg – mix them together, bake, and enjoy.
The cookies come out soft, chewy, and full of peanut flavor without any complicated steps. Perfect for last-minute guests or a quick snack, they are as easy as they are delicious.
You can add chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra twist.
11. Rice Krispie Treats
Rice Krispie treats are a nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert that requires only three ingredients: marshmallows, butter, and Rice Krispies. Melt the butter and marshmallows, mix in the cereal, and press the mixture into a pan to set.
They’re a hit at parties, bake sales, or just as a quick homemade snack. Customize them with chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or even peanut butter for added flavor.
These treats are simple, fun to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.
12. Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is an elegant, creamy dessert that’s deceptively easy to make.
With just cream, sugar, vanilla, and gelatin, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert at home.
The trick is to heat the mixture gently, pour it into molds, and let it chill until set. Serve with fresh berries, fruit coulis, or a drizzle of caramel for added flair.
It’s perfect for dinner parties when you want to impress without too much effort.
13. Chocolate Banana Bites
Chocolate banana bites are a quick, healthy dessert that’s perfect for satisfying a sweet craving. Slice bananas, dip them in melted chocolate, and freeze until set for a deliciously simple treat.
You can add toppings like nuts, coconut flakes, or sea salt for extra flavor and crunch. These bites are easy to make ahead and store in the freezer for when you need a quick dessert.
They’re a perfect blend of creamy banana and rich chocolate in every bite.
14. Easy Tiramisu Cups
Tiramisu cups offer all the flavor of the classic Italian dessert in a fraction of the time. Layer coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and cream in small cups.
Top with cocoa powder or grated chocolate for a beautiful and delicious presentation. No baking is required, and the cups can be assembled in advance, making them perfect for parties.
These mini tiramisu servings are a quick way to enjoy a beloved dessert without all the work.
15. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
A fruit salad with honey-lime dressing is a refreshing and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Simply chop your favorite fruits, such as berries, melons, and kiwi, and toss them in a honey-lime dressing.
The dressing adds a zesty, sweet flavor that enhances the natural taste of the fruit. This dessert is light, healthy, and requires minimal preparation – perfect for summer gatherings.
It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits in a delicious, simple way.
16. No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake Bites
No-bake Oreo cheesecake bites are a bite-sized treat that’s both creamy and crunchy. With a crushed Oreo crust and a simple cream cheese filling, these bites are easy to assemble.
You don’t need an oven – just mix, chill, and enjoy. Top them with a drizzle of chocolate or a whole Oreo for an extra special touch.
These mini cheesecakes are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick homemade dessert.
17. Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry Twists
Cinnamon sugar puff pastry twists are a quick, easy, and delicious dessert option. Made with just puff pastry, cinnamon, sugar, and butter, they take minutes to prepare and bake.
Twist strips of puff pastry, brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake until golden. They’re crispy, sweet, and perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.
This dessert is ideal for a last-minute treat that looks and tastes impressive.
