Think You Can't Bake? These 103 Easy Dessert Recipes Will Prove Otherwise

magic cheesecake bars
103 Best Easy DessertsPHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

There's no debate that there's nothing better than a homemade dessert to make any occasion feel extra-special, from birthdays to anniversaries to potlucks and everyday dinners. But what if you’re, ahem, not super-confident in the kitchen? Fear not, these desserts look like a professional made them, but are actually so easy to put together! From cakes to cookie bars to pies and even cheesecakes, you’ll be able to master these 103 easy dessert recipes in no time.

What makes these recipes so easy, you may ask? We've included many desserts that are ready in under an hour (some even in 10 minutes!), so you're not slaving away in the kitchen prepping a towering dessert all day long. Our no-bake desserts couldn't be easier to prep ahead of time, with the majority of their time spent chillin' in the fridge 'til you're ready to serve. Of course, we didn't forget some of our favorite easy desserts: poke cakes and cheesecake bars. If you're unfamiliar with the former, it's all in the name—they’re baked, poked, then filled with a sweet syrup or milk to add extra flavor. Basically, they're foolproof delicious and a great way to impress without all the fuss of a layer cake. Ditto for cheesecake bars—they've got ALL the flavor you love without ever having to worry about a water bath or cracks.

With these recipes, we've found plenty of ways to create stunning-looking desserts without any finesse, from simple marbling to fruit toppings that don't need anything else for a stunning finish (well, some whipped cream never hurt).

Want more dessert recipes? Check out our list of easy fruit desserts for when you're looking for something fresh and fruity. Need more chocolate in your life? Peruse our list of chocolate desserts too.

Tiramisu Dip

Classic tiramisu is a no-bake labor of love and the perfect ending to nearly any meal. We love the dessert’s rich, creamy flavors so much, we have created cookie cups, a tiramisu cake, truffles, and stuffed French toast in its honor. But what do you do when you’re craving tiramisu, but you don’t have the time or patience to chill it for hours? Enter tiramisu dip. It’s got all the right flavors—creamy mascarpone, rich espresso, and a generous dusting of cocoa powder—and it comes together in just 10 minutes.

Get the Tiramisu Dip recipe.

tiramisu dip
RACHEL VANNI PHOTOGRAPHY LLC F/S/O RACHEL VANNI

Magic Cheesecake Bars

Get your sweet tooth ready for a decadent cheesecake bar experience. These magic cheesecake bars are the best iteration of any cheesecake dessert (or any magic cookie bars) with a buttery graham cracker bottom, chocolate chip bits intertwined in rich cheesecake, and topped with toasted coconut and walnuts.

Get the Magic Cheesecake Bars recipe.

magic cheesecake bars
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Apple Cider Cookies

We don’t need the pumpkin spice lattes, just give us a freshly baked donut and I’ll be happy. While we think making donuts is quite fun, they’re time consuming, and not to mention the mess of frying with oil or needing a donut pan to bake them. These cookies are the perfect substitution.

Get the Apple Cider Cookies recipe.

apple cider cookies rolled in cinnamon sugar
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Ice Cream In A Bag

Pssst: You don't need a fancy ice cream maker to make ice cream at home, all you need is a plastic baggie and 15 minutes! Add a different extract, throw in a little chocolate syrup, or top with candy for the sundae of your dreams.

Get the Ice Cream In A Bag recipe.

ice cream in a bag with cherries, sprinkles, and toppings
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Chocolate Caramel Coffee Pretzel Bars

Cookies usually get all the love, but dessert bars are the real sleeper hit. Between the choose-your-adventure Ghirardelli brownies (hello, cheesecake swirl) and the multi-layer classics like our magic cookie bars, there’s a bar cookie out there for everyone. When the mood strikes for a salty-sweet crowd-pleaser chock-full of crunchy pretzels, gooey coffee-caramel, and chocolate, these check all the boxes.

Get the Chocolate Caramel Coffee Pretzel Bars recipe.

dessert bars with pretzels, coffee flavor, caramel, and chocolate
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Brownie Batter Croissants

Is there anything more wonderful than buttery, flaky croissants in all of their various forms? Inspired by the viral cookie dough-stuffed croissant, we have arrived at our newest croissant creation: the brownie batter croissant. It's made like an almond croissant—pastries plus delicious filing—and its flavor is almost like a pain au chocolat, but even richer.

Get the Brownie Batter Croissants recipe.

croissants with chocolate
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Brown Butter Apple Blondies

If you’re not already on the brown butter train, these blondies will have you on board in two seconds flat. Filled with tender apples and drizzled with a creamy brown butter frosting, these brown butter blondies are the definition of an irresistible packable treat.

Get the Brown Butter Apple Blondies recipe.

brown butter apple blondies topped with brown butter glaze
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

S'mores Brownies

Step aside, chocolate bars—s'mores brownies are the BEST way to eat s'mores. Whether you want to skip the campfire or make this camping classic for crowd, these brownies are the perfect way share this summer treat.

Get the S'mores Brownies recipe.

chocolate brownies topped with toasted marshmallows
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

One bite of this Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola cake, and you'll be instantly transported to a rocking chair on a covered front porch playing with that triangle peg board game (IYKYK). Even if you're not familiar with the Southern comfort food stylings of Cracker Barrel, you can trust us that this chocolate cake is real good.

Get the Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake recipe.

chocolate coca cola sheet pan cake with chocolate icing
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Chocolate Pie Cookies

If you love the richness and the comfort of homemade French silk pie, then these chocolate pie cookies are just what you need. Inspired by the classic, but with the ease and convenience of a cookie, this recipe offers a unique twist on beloved flavors.

Get the Chocolate Pie Cookies recipe.

chocolate pie cookies topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Carmelitas

Layered with a buttery brown sugar oat mixture, a homemade caramel sauce, and melty chocolate chips, these bars have everything we could ever want. Plus, they’re ready in under an hour, making them the perfect last-minute addition to your holiday party (or even when you’re just craving a sweet treat).

Get the Carmelitas recipe.

carmelitas stacked with caramel sauce
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Cannoli Bites

The crunchy exterior and creamy interior of a cannoli is one of the world’s best bites. Unfortunately, that bite is usually a messy thing to navigate, with the shell and filling going in all sorts of directions. That’s where these one-bite wonders come in!

Get the Cannoli Bites recipe.

individual cannoli bites topped with chocolate chips, crushed pistachio and powdered sugar
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Glazed Maple Leaf Cookies

Forget PSL season, let’s make “maple syrup fall” happen! In this maple-inspired recipe, we spiced up our cut-out sugar cookies with cinnamon, maple syrup, and walnuts to make an aromatic and nutty-flavored cookie dough that will make you feel like you're taking a brisk fall hike among maple trees.

Get the Glazed Maple Leaf Cookies recipe.

glazed maple leaf cookies topped with pecans
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Jell-O Cake

This Jell-O cake is a delicious and easy dessert that was all the rage at potlucks and parties in the '70s and '80s, and we want to bring it back. It's giving nostalgia, kitsch, and strawberry shortcake vibes, and we are here for it.

Get the Jell-O Cake recipe.

jello cake topped with frosting and strawberry slices
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Biscoff Trifle

You may be most familiar with these cookies as a beloved Delta in-flight snack. In fact, Biscoff’s partnership with the airline is what first introduced American consumers to the cookie in the 1980s. We love eating them all year long, but especially around Christmastime. So we decided to celebrate speculoos with this show-stopping holiday trifle.

Get the Biscoff Trifle recipe.

a trifle dish filled with layers of spice cake, caramel, cookie butter mousse, whipped cream, and biscoff cookies
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Shortcut Citrus Upside-Down Cake

Looking for something sweet to brighten your day? Bake this upside-down citrus cake. Made with a convenient boxed cake mix and crowned with a layer of shining orange and grapefruit wheels, this cake is equally easy to make and stunning to look at.

Get the Shortcut Citrus Upside-Down Cake recipe.

a slice of shortcut citrus upside down cake coming out of the larger cake
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Crescent Apple Dumplings

Stay with us here: These dumplings are essentially poached in a lemon-lime soda, which may seem a little odd, but trust us on this one. The dumplings come out slightly doughy and gooey, and the soda turns the whole thing into a sweet sauce that you can drizzle over the whole thing.

Get the Crescent Apple Dumplings recipe.

crescent apple dumplings with ice cream
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars

Buckeyes are a beloved truffle made of a rich peanut butter filling and dipped in chocolate. This no-bake cheesecake might be even easier. The cheesecake is lighter and creamier than the truffle, but still has all of the peanut butter and chocolate elements you love.

Get the No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars recipe.

nobake buckeye cheesecake bars
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: RILEY WOFFORD

Mason Jar Ice Cream

We’ve got lots of magic shortcuts for you, from no-churn options to ice cream made in a bag, and now this recipe, ice cream in a mason jar. It really is as easy as it sounds: Simply put heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt into a jar, then shake it!

Get the Mason Jar Ice Cream recipe.

mason jar ice cream
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE

Cookie Brittle

Cookie brittle is a particularly great hack for the holidays or any time you’re entertaining when you don’t have time or the oven space to bake multiple trays of cookies. Think of it like a faster, easier way to make a big batch of chocolate chip cookies. 😍

Get the Cookie Brittle recipe.

cookie brittle
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Milk 'N' Cookies Icebox Cake

Is there any better combo than milk and chocolate chip cookies? We think not. For this particular recipe, you don't even have to bake the cookies yourself! All you need to make this show-stopper no-bake dessert are 4 ingredients—cookies, heavy cream, cream cheese and powdered sugar—and a couple hours.

Get the Milk 'N' Cookies Icebox Cake recipe.

icebox cake made of chocolate chip cookies and whipped cream layered on a cake stand in front of a blue background
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Birthday Cake Pie

This fun dessert encompasses both birthday cake AND pie with a no-bake cake batter-flavored filling that makes it as easy to assemble as it is to finish in one serving. Feeling indecisive? Need something OTT to celebrate with? This celebratory dessert is for you.

Get the Birthday Cake Pie recipe.

funfetti style cake in a pie dish
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

This pumpkin crunch cake combines the best of two worlds: a pumpkin pie bottom with a crunchy cake and pecan topping (yes, a pie topped with cake!). The end result of this layered dessert is a delightful cobbler-like treat fit for any fall occasion.

Get the Pumpkin Crunch Cake recipe.

pumpkin crunch cake with whipped cream
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Figuring out how to make all of the pumpkin desserts during Thanksgiving while the turkey is in the oven can be a nightmare. That's why you need this no-bake cheesecake. It's a major time saver and while we love our classic pumpkin cheesecake, we go crazy for the no-bake option.

Get the No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe.

no bake pumpkin cheesecake with whipped cream topping
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Pumpkin Patch Brownies

Pumpkin patch brownies turn a regular boxed brownie into the cutest fall dessert. Top with crushed Oreos for dirt and nestle candied pumpkins to look like they are growing from the ground. So simple yet so sweet!

Get the Pumpkin Patch Brownies recipe.

brownies with pumpkin candies and green icing
Hearst Owned

Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream

This easy-to-make Dunkaroos-inspired no-churn ice cream will bring you back to the '90s! It’s chock-full of sprinkles and Annie’s bunny grahams, so every bite is filled with nostalgia.

Get the Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream recipe.

vanilla ice cream with dunkaroos pieces and sprinkles
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Chocolate Pizza

We start with our favorite homemade pizza dough for this dessert, but you can absolutely use store-bought if that's what you prefer. Add some sliced strawberries, marshmallows, pretzels, candy or just leave it at Nutella! The best thing about this easy dessert? You absolutely can't mess it up.

Get the Chocolate Pizza recipe.

chocolate covered pizza dough topped with marshmallows, pretzels, and candy
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Sugar Cookie Bars

The easiest way to make sugar cookies for a crowd is to turn them into bars. Somewhere between a blondie and cookie, these sugar cookie bars are thick and soft with buttercream spread on top. They take less time than scooping individual cookies and are just as good.

Get the Sugar Cookie Bars recipe.

sugar cookie bars
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STLYING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Crustless Apple Pies

You need to try this hasselback trick with apples ASAP. It tastes like a cross between a homemade apple pie and a warm apple crumble. The best part: You don't need to deal with rolling out and chilling pie dough.

Get the Crustless Apple Pies recipe.

crustless apple pie delish com
Park Feierbach

Orange Creamsicle Bars

These triple-layered orange bars have us feeling all nostalgic for the classic frozen Popsicle treat that inspired them. They’re creamy, dreamy, and the perfect blend of citrusy orange and vanilla bean flavor paired with a graham cracker crust.

Get the Orange Creamsicle Bars recipe.

orange creamsicle bars with a graham cracker crust
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Cheesecake Pops

These creamy cheesecake popsicles are the perfect easy dessert to cool off with when you just can't be bothered to make a homemade cheesecake from scratch. With strawberry pieces and a crushed graham cracker topping, these pops give you the same delicious flavors you're craving, with way less effort.

Get the Cheesecake Pops recipe.

cheesecake pops with a strawberry swirl and crumble topping
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Key Lime Pie Mousse

This take on Key lime pie has all of the refreshing tartness and buttery crumble of the classic dessert, but in an adorable, individual container. This just might be your new fave party dessert!

Get the Key Lime Pie Mousse recipe.

layered key lime pie mousse with whipped cream and a lime
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Drumstick Pie

Sugar cone fans—get ready to meet your new fave dessert. We use sugar cones not only for the topping in this no-bake dessert, but also in the homemade crust. Layered with vanilla ice cream, chocolate ganache, and crumbled peanuts for a sweet-salty, topping, this "pie" truly has something for everyone.

Get the Drumstick Pie recipe.

ice cream pie with chocolate ganache, waffle cones and peanuts
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies

These no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies are nostalgia at its finest—half of our staff has a story about these from childhood. If you don't, whip up a batch ASAP and you'll see why they're so memorable.

Get the No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies recipe.

no bake oatmeal chocolate peanut butter cookies
Parker feierbach

Aperol Spritz Trifles

This trifle draws inspiration from everybody’s favorite summer cocktail: the Aperol Spritz. This popular beverage fuses effervescent Prosecco, a bittersweet and bright Italian aperitivo, and fresh orange. We include all three of those ingredients in this layered dessert. It’s like an adult version of an orange Creamsicle!

Get the Aperol Spritz Trifles recipe.

a stemless wine glass filled with vanilla cake, whipped cream, aperol spiked jam, and pudding with an orange slice on the rim
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Texas Sheet Cake

This chocolate cake is rich, extra-fudgy, and topped with plenty of toasty pecans. It's a classic dessert for very good reason: it was made for chocolate lovers, AND is ready in under an hour.

Get the Texas Sheet Cake recipe.

chocolate texas sheet cake with pecans
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Cake Mix Cookies

If you’re looking for a last-minute homemade dessert, this recipe will give you festive cookies with just a few ingredients. All you need is a box of cake mix and sprinkles!

Get the Cake Mix Cookies recipe.

cake mix cookies topped with colored sprinkles
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

No-Bake Creamsicle Cheesecake

If you're a fan of the nostalgic creamsicles, then let us introduce you to your new favorite cheesecake. We incorporated the sweet orange flavors of the classic treat into this ultra-creamy cheesecake with a buttery crust for the ultimate summer treat. One of our favorite things about this recipe? It's a no-bake dream.

Get the No-Bake Creamsicle Cheesecake recipe.

no bake creamsicle cheesecake with dollops of whipped cream and a graham cracker crust
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Blueberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake

When it’s hot outside, a no-bake dessert like this blueberry cheesecake icebox cake is an ace up your sleeve. Layers of blueberry jam, whipped cream cheese, and graham crackers are stacked together for a no-fuss cool and creamy masterpiece that looks like you spent hours crafting it (but all you did was chill it!).

Get the Blueberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake recipe.

blueberry cheesecake icebox cake with two slices lying down on a marble serving platter
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Dalgona Whipped Chocolate

Inspired by a viral Korean-style coffee drink called Dalgona, this kid-friendly version uses Nesquik cocoa powder rather than instant coffee to create a foamy chocolate milk topper that’s spooned over a glass of iced milk. This hot chocolate is basically an excuse to play with your food. 😍

Get the Dalgona Whipped Chocolate recipe.

whipped chocolate in a frosted glass with a blue and white straw
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Oreo Cookie Cake

This version of our OG cookie cake takes things to the next level by putting cookies INSIDE the "cake". It’s packed with chopped Oreos (in place of chocolate chips), decorated with a rich Oreo buttercream (in place of plain chocolate or vanilla), and crowned with even more Oreos. 😍

Get the Oreo Cookie Cake recipe.

cookie cake with oreos mixed in and on top with chocolate frosting
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

To make these, we topped a simple graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake layer, a sweet pink strawberry layer, and then crumbled a cinnamon-spiced streusel on top. These are remarkable enough to share for holidays and potlucks, but also easy enough to make any time you’re craving cheesecake.

Get the Strawberry Cheesecake Bars recipe.

strawberry cheesecake bars
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Fantasy Fudge

Marshmallow fluff makes this shortcut fudge just as good as the real thing. You can top these rich pieces with anything your heart desires, from classic candy like Oreos or other cookie pieces to nuts like pecans or walnuts. Get creative with it!

Get the Fantasy Fudge recipe.

closeup of pieces of fantasy fudge topped with pecans and crushed oreos
Joel goldberg

Fruit Tart

If you’re one of the many who are stunned by the shiny fruit tarts in bakery windows, then this recipe is for you. Good news: It’s surprisingly easy to make a stunning fruit tart right at home! Make it as an easy, warm-weather treat to indulge in anytime.

Get the Fruit Tart recipe.

tart topped with blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries, blackberries, and orange slices
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Limoncello Tiramisu

Tiramisu lovers, prepare to take your favorite coffee-soaked dessert to a world of lemon. Limoncello, lemon curd, and lemonade take full rein of this dessert, turning it into a summertime dream.

Get the Limoncello Tiramisu recipe.

limoncello tiramisu
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Snickerdoodle Blondies

While we love the classic blondies, when we're craving a perfect, easy fall dessert, we turn to these snickerdoodle-flavored blondies every single time. Perfectly tender and chewy (with a cinnamon-sugar topping), these blondies get that signature snickerdoodle texture and flavor without cream of tartar.

Get the Snickerdoodle Blondies recipe.

snickerdoodle flavored blondies with a sugar topping
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Creamsicles

Feeling nostalgic? Bring back your childhood memories with a batch of these delicious homemade orange Creamsicle bars. Super-simple to make, these frozen bars are a refreshing, easy dessert to enjoy on those too-hot summer days.

Get the Creamsicles recipe.

frozen creamsicle bars with orange and cream swirls
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Apple Cider Donut Cake

In our minds, fall isn't fall 'til we've had at least a dozen apple cider cake donuts. This super-sized version comes together in no time, and there's no deep-frying involved. That's a win in our book.

Get the Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe.

apple cider donut cake
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Flourless Chocolate Coconut Cake

This gluten-free cake is a perfect last-minute dessert to whip up that is so gorgeous, people will think it took you days to make. The signature cracked topping dusted with cocoa powder make this easy dessert into a stunning centerpiece.

Get the Flourless Chocolate Coconut Cake recipe.

flourless chocolate coconut cake
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE

Piña Colada Lasagna

Need an easy summer dessert? Enter this easy no-bake piña colada lasagna. It's got a base of coconut and graham cracker, layered with a coconut cream cheese, shortbread cookies, and pineapple Jell-O, echoing its namesake frozen drink.

Get the Piña Colada Lasagna recipe.

creamy coconut lime cheesecake layered with buttery shortbread cookies, crushed pineapple jello, cool whipped cream, and maraschino cherries all on a graham cracker coconut crust
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Coffee Cookies 'N' Cream Ice Cream

You don't need a machine to make a homemade batch of ice cream—just a strong arm and some imagination. Here, we folded in Oreos, caramel sauce, and a touch of instant coffee for a caffeinated kick, but this recipe is infinitely adaptable!

Get the Coffee Cookies 'N' Cream Ice Cream recipe.

coffee cookies and cream ice cream
Erik bernstein

Pecan Pie Bars

Without the need for making or chilling pie dough, these bars give regular pecan pie a run for its money. A simple press-in crust and a quick, corn syrup-free (!!!) topping makes for a seriously decadent no-fuss dessert.

Get the Pecan Pie Bars recipe.

pecan pie bars
Emily Hlavac Green

Babka Monkey Bread

Though babka is typically made with challah bread, we used Pillsbury grand biscuits to make this incredible babka-monkey bread mash-up even easier.

Get the Babka Monkey Bread recipe.

food styling makinze gore
PHOTO: KATE JORDAN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Apple Dump Cake

This classic cake gets its name from its simplicity. "Dump"everything in a baking dish and go. A typical apple dump cake would include apple pie filling, but we've made ours from fresh apples instead (it's a great way to use up an apple orchard bounty!).

Get the Apple Dump Cake recipe.

apple dump cake
Emily Hlavac Green

Espresso Cookies

Adding instant coffee is one of our favorite hacks to add a boost of richness and something a lil extra to our chocolatey desserts. To get that flavorful boost and a stronger coffee taste in these soft and fudgy cookies, we added even more instant coffee to really get that chocolate and espresso taste.

Get the Espresso Cookies recipe.

espresso cookies
PHOTO: JOEL GOLDBERG; FOOD STYLING: HADLEY SUI

Easy Blondies

Switch it up from normal brownies with these nutty, rich blondies. You can switch up this base recipe, but if you're aiming for a classic blondie, there are a few necessities: make sure you're browning the butter to get that signature nutty flavor, and don't forget the white chocolate chips and toasted, crunchy walnuts!

Get the Easy Blondies recipe.

blondies
Parker Feierbach

Hostess Sheet Cake

If you can't get enough of the fudgy, cream-filled cupcakes, then this sheet cake will be your new favorite dessert. Taking inspiration from the classic Hostess dessert, this sheet cake delivers on all the same flavors in an easy, shareable form.

Get the Hostess Sheet Cake recipe.

chocolate sheet cake with white piped icing
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Buttery, chewy, and filled with strawberry jam, this dessert combines the nostalgia of Pop-Tarts and the classic comfort of blondies in one adorable bar cookie.

Get the Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies recipe.

strawberry pop tart blondies with icing and sprinkles
PHOTO: NICO SCHINCO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Sponge Cake

Having this cake in your recipe arsenal will have you ready for anything that gets thrown at you: You can cube it a trifle, crumble it over ice cream, or—our favorite—stack it with whipped cream and berries. The best part? You can also have this entire cake ready in just about an hour.

Get the Sponge Cake recipe.

easy sponge cake
Erik bernstein

Lemon-Blueberry Mini Cheesecake Cupcakes

Even though these cheesecakes might be miniature, they deliver maximum flavor. Speaking of, feel free to switch up the flavors with your faves—we went with lemon-blueberry + vanilla Oreos, but have fun with it!

Get the Lemon-Blueberry Mini Cheesecake Cupcakes recipe.

lemon blueberry mini cheesecake cupcakes with blueberry sauce
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Chocolate Bundt Cake

Calling all chocolate dessert lovers—this fudgy Bundt cake is really something special. We’re partial to covering it in a rich ganache and serving it after a nice dinner, but keep it plain and it can be the perfect indulgent brunch or midday pick-me-up.

Get the Chocolate Bundt Cake recipe.

chocolate bundt cake
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Coconut Cookies

Soft, chewy, slightly golden crispy edges with crispy toasted coconut strewn throughout, these coconut cookies are not too shy to highlight their star ingredient. Topped with even more coconut right before baking, these chewy cookies with a crispy edge are a coconut lover's dream.

Get the Coconut Cookies recipe.

gluten free almond flour coconut cookies
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: MARY RUPP

Triple-Chocolate Trifle

Layers of complementary flavors make this trifle really pop. The tahini brings a subtle nutty flavor, while the dark rum adds warmth. Unlike a typical chocolate mousse, olive oil is used here in place of cream, further exaggerating the chocolate flavor. Yum!

Get the Triple-Chocolate Trifle recipe.

triple chocolate trifle topped with kit kats
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE

Banana Pudding Pops

When we’re craving banana pudding during the summer, these popsicles are the bite-sized treat we turn to. A simple frozen dessert, these refreshing pops couldn't be easier to make. With only 15 minutes of prep, the hardest thing about this recipe is waiting for them to chill—we guarantee it. 😉

Get the Banana Pudding Pops recipe.

banana pudding pops with sprinkled graham cracker crumbs
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Banana Pudding

If you always pick up a tub of banana pudding from your local bakery, trust us—it’s completely worth it to make this classic Southern dessert at home. With towering layers of vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, whipped cream, and wafer cookies, this homemade recipe is one we'll never tire of.

Get the Banana Pudding recipe.

banana pudding layers
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

No-Bake Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

These no-bake cheesecake bars get a stunning, swirly topping of blackberries that looks more like art than dessert. Bonus: The cheesecake itself is tart and fluffy with the creamiest texture.

Get the No-Bake Blackberry Cheesecake Bars recipe.

no bake blackberry cheesecake bars with graham cracker crust and blackberry topping
PHOTO: JOEL GOLDBERG; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

No-Bake Whipped Ricotta Cheesecake

"No-bake" and "whipped" in the same recipe name as "cheesecake"? Sure! The whipped ricotta and mascarpone combination lightened with whipped cream here is quite dreamy.

Get the No-Bake Whipped Ricotta Cheesecake recipe.

no baked whipped ricotta cheesecake with vanilla bean and biscoff lemon cookie crust
PHOTO: NICO SCHINCO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Best Rice Krispie Treats

We've got THE fail-proof tips for the best Rice Krispies treat of your life. Let's just say: use lots of butter, don't hold back on the marshmallow, and do not (we repeat, do NOT) pack the pan!

Get the Best Rice Krispie Treats recipe.

rice krispie treats stacked and in rows
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

M&M Cookie Bars

These have all the comfort of a chocolate chip cookie, with the added crunch of M&M's and the heft of a bar shape, making for a delicious treat that’s impossible to put down. Try them with seasonal M&M's to switch them up for holidays too.

Get the M&M Cookie Bars recipe.

mm cookie bars cut into squares
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Best-Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

We've made our fair share of variations on the chocolate chip cookie over the years, from chewy to brown butter, but this recipe takes the cake: They’re the most classic, least-fussy version—exactly what you want when you’re looking for a no-frills, soft, and fudgy cookie.

Get the Best-Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe.

chocolate chip cookies
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Fruit Popsicles

In the heat of summer, nothing satisfies quite like a fruit popsicle. This classic strawberry version is big on fruit flavor and not too sweet.

Get the Fruit Popsicles recipe.

fruit popsicles
Andrew bui

Skillet Fudgy Brownie Pudding

If you’re looking to up your brownie game from fudgy to rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, then you’re gonna have to try this recipe. It’s got all the traditional brownie ingredients, but has a fun twist: This version is made with Baileys, both in the batter and in the whipped cream.

Get the Skillet Fudgy Brownie Pudding recipe.

skillet fudgy brownie pudding
PHOTO; ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLIST; MAKINZE GORE

Chocolate Almond Bark

This homemade chocolate bark couldn't be easier (ready in under 30 minutes!), and also is so sweet and crunchy that no store-bought bar could compare. We love the sharp taste of dark chocolate and crunchy almonds in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with your favorite combos!

Get the Chocolate Almond Bark recipe.

chocolate almond bark
PHOTO: Erik Bernstein; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you're looking for an easy treat with a nostalgic taste, how about everyone’s all-time favorite cookie but in bar form? No rolling or scooping little balls, no multiple sheet pans, AND you can store them right in the pan you baked them in. 😍

Get the Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars recipe.

chocolate chip cookie bars
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: DREW AICHELE

No-Bake Banana Caramel Pecan Pie

When it comes to old-school desserts, banana cream pie and pecan pie are always at the top of the list. If you’re torn between which to make, why not combine them?

Get the No-Bake Banana Caramel Pecan Pie recipe.

nobake banana caramel pecan pie
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Magic Cookie Bars

Though dump cakes might be the easiest dessert to make, these cookie bars are a close second. And we'd reckon that these are even more customizable and more delicious. We encourage you to find your ideal flavor and ingredient combinations to discover the true magic of these bars.

Get the Magic Cookie Bars recipe.

12 magic cookie bars
Joel goldberg

Confetti Squares

These colorful squares are a perfect last-minute party pleaser, only requiring 20 minutes of baking time before chilling! We used rainbow marshmallows for an extra-fun pop of color, but feel free to use regular marshmallows for a more toned-down treat.

Get the Confetti Squares recipe.

food, cuisine, confectionery, chocolate, toffee, rocky road, american food, dessert, dish, fudge,
Parker Feierbach

Giant Fruit Danish

Sweet fruit danishes are delicious anytime of day, but especially when they're topped with sweet icing glaze. We used raspberry jam as the filling in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits and jams!

Get the Giant Fruit Danish recipe.

giant fruit danish
Suzanne Clements

Lemon Icebox Cake

Icebox cake may be an old-school concept, but this recipe is truly spectacular. The combination of lemon curd and cream cheese frosting is intensely citrusy and refreshing, and the quick candied lemon peel makes it priceless.

Get the Lemon Icebox Cake recipe.

square slice of lemon icebox cake on a plate
ERIK BERNSTEIN

Caramel Apple Tart

This four-ingredient dessert will look like it took you forever, when it's really ready in under an hour! Store-bought puff pastry is the secret behind this quick and easy tart, but don't fret, the pastry will be just as flaky and delicious as if it were homemade, in half the time.

Get the Caramel Apple Tart recipe.

caramel apple tart
Erik bernstein

Chocolate Fluffernutter Pie

Peanut butter pie just got a major upgrade. We added a quick, easy, and super-fluffy marshmallow cream on top instead of traditional whipped cream. The best part? This no-bake pie is a perfect make-ahead dessert, requiring little effort and a few hours of chilling time.

Get the Chocolate Fluffernutter Pie recipe.

fluffernutter pie in a metal pie tin with a slice taken out
Suzanne Clements

Milkshake

If you're feeling nostalgic for diner days, no worries—it's surprisingly easy to make a deliciously creamy milkshake at home! This basic vanilla recipe is a great base for endless mix-ins, like chocolate syrup, candy, or even fruit.

Get the Milkshake recipe.

closeup of vanilla milkshake topped with rainbow sprinkles and a maraschino cherry
PARKER FEIERBACH

"Fried" Ice Cream

We skipped the actual frying of ice cream in this recipe and instead opted for a quicker and easier (and equally delicious) version. Here, our vanilla ice cream (but feel free to pick any flavor you'd like!) is coated in buttery, crunchy cornflakes that we toast separately ahead of time.

Get the "Fried" Ice Cream recipe.

fried ice cream delishcom
Lucy Schaeffer

Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake

We gave the classic flourless chocolate cake an upgrade in the form of LOTS of peanut butter. The chocolate and PB combo make it even richer than the original, while being just as easy to make. The fancy stripes are optional—but who doesn't love a little extra peanut butter?!

Get the Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake recipe.

flourless chocolate peanut butter cake
Hearst Owned

Oreo Truffles

Raid the cookie and candy aisles to jazz these up—a bit of crushed candy or changing up the variety of Oreo can add a fun boost of flavor and color to your truffles. Make sure to save a little extra too, so you can top each truffle with some crumbs.

Get the Oreo Truffles recipe.

oreo truffles
Parker Feierbach

Cookie Cake

Bigger is better, especially when we're talking cookies, so don't be shy with your decorations here. Mix up the chocolate chips in the cookie dough for peanut butter or butterscotch chips instead, or, if you love all things chocolate, decorate the baked cookie with chocolate icing or a chocolate ganache glaze. 😍

Get the Cookie Cake recipe.

chocolate chip cookie cake topped with frosting swirls and sprinkles
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Oreo Cookie Skillet

This beyond-simple campfire dessert is like survival food, but in the most delicious way possible. Top tip: Don't wait until the center turns golden—the rest will burn before it does! Plus, the top will continue to firm up as it cools. Serve it warm, scooped into bowls, topped with your ice cream of choice.

Get the Oreo Cookie Skillet recipe.

oreo cookie skillet
Parker feierbach

Granita

Simple to make and easily modified, granita is perfect on its own as a light palate cleanser or dressed up with whipped cream and toppings. This pineapple version is big on tropical flavors, with heavy notes of vanilla and toffee thanks to a splash of rum and a scoop of dark brown sugar.

Get the Pineapple Granita recipe.

three glasses of pineapple granita topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Frozen Samoa Pie

Even when Girl Scout cookie season is over, you can still satisfy your Samoa cookie cravings. This frozen pie is the perfect summer treat to cool off with, and has all of the coconut, caramel, and chocolate you know and love. The best part? It's an easy no-bake dessert that's ready when you are.

Get the Frozen Samoa Pie recipe.

frozen samoa pie on a white plate with a fork and a bite missing
Parker Feierbach

Oreo Cheesecake Bars

These layered cookie bars are ALWAYS a hit, and way easier than making a whole cheesecake. With Oreos, cookie dough, and cheesecake (plus a drizzle of caramel), this ultra-rich dessert is a shareable treat for any sweet craving.

Get the Oreo Cheesecake Bars recipe.

slutty cheesecake bars
Parker Feierbach

Chocolate Pudding

Put down that box of instant pudding! This recipe for homemade chocolate pudding is super-smooth and chocolatey, while still being simple enough to not require too many ingredients or too much time. Top with homemade whipped cream and chocolate shavings for fluffy, individual treats made to share.

Get the Chocolate Pudding recipe.

three cups of chocolate pudding on a blue background
Emily Hlavac Green

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dippers

We all know that chocolate chip cookies are a match made in heaven with a glass of cold milk, so we went ahead and made the whole process even easier. These dippers have everything you know and love about chocolate chip cookies, but in an easy, dippable rectangle shape!

Get the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dippers recipe.

chocolate chip cookie dippers
Parker Feierbach

Chocolate Covered Oreos

Chocolate + Oreos = the best of both worlds. This simple dessert takes less than 30 minutes from start to end, and is an ideal treat for any chocolate lover.

Get the Chocolate Covered Oreos recipe.

food, chocolate, cuisine, dessert, dish, chocolate truffle, baked goods, ganache, ingredient, snack,
Parker Feierbach

Peanut Butter Dessert Lasagna

It's peanut butter overload in the best way possible. We layered all our fav peanut butter desserts—Nutter Butters, Butterfingers, and peanut butter, of course—into one dessert lasagna. Peanut butter not your thing? Try our s'mores dessert lasagna on for size.

Get the Peanut Butter Dessert Lasagna recipe.

peanut butter dessert lasagna
Park Feierbach

Rainbow Vanilla Cheesecake Bars

Even plain, these cheesecake bars would be a stunning treat based on their creaminess and buttery graham cracker crust alone. But, creating a vibrant rainbow design really ups the 'wow' factor. Tip: Don't be afraid to be heavy-handed with the food coloring—the brighter, the better!

Get the Rainbow Vanilla Cheesecake Bars recipe.

rainbow cheesecake bars on a marble background
Bryce Johnson

Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

It's not that chocolate chip cookies are hard to make, it's just that this cookie skillet is extra easy. Slice the cookie dough into wedges before serving and top it off with ice cream, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or even spiced candied pecans if you're feeling extra indulgent.

Get the Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie recipe.

chocolate chip skillet cookie sliced and topped with vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup
Parker feierbach

Number Cake

For this easy cake, we traced our number on the back of an empty cereal box to used it as a stencil—trust us, it's very doable! Use this method to write out whatever letters and numbers you like. Topped with a fun assortment of candies and/or fruits, it'll look adorable.

Get the Number Cake recipe.

vanilla cake shaped like the number one with chocolate frosting and decorated with candy
Bryce Johnson

No-Bake Cheesecake

The only downside to a cheesecake is how long it takes to bake and how fussy it can be (water bath? no thank you!). A no-bake cheesecake takes all the stress away. Plus, it only takes about half the time to make.

Get the No-Bake Cheesecake recipe.

no bake cheesecake
Parker Feierbach

Nutella Pops

Move over, fudgesicles! These homemade popsicles are as easy as they are delicious. Check out all our other favorite ways to use the sweet hazelnut spread in our top Nutella desserts.

Get the Nutella Pops recipe.

nutella frozen in a popsicle stick
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Homemade Brownies

If you normally reach for the boxed mix, trust us—make these easy, homemade brownies one time, and you'll ditch the store-bought for good.

Get the Homemade Brownies recipe.

brownies in a grid on a marble surface
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Peanut Butter-Stuffed Cookies

This genius hack is similar to the one we use in our Nutella-stuffed cookies. Mix peanut butter with powdered sugar, roll mixture into balls, then freeze them—this prevents a peanut butter explosion when baking.

Get the Peanut Butter-Stuffed Cookies recipe.

peanut butter stuffed cookies delishcom
Parker Feierbach

Banana Split Pops

Ever wish your banana split was portable? Enter: Banana Split Pops! We included everything you know and love about the classic dessert—bananas, chocolate, sprinkles, whipped cream and maraschino cherries—but turned it into a fun, personalized pop you can customize how you please.

Get the Banana Split Pops recipe.

banana split pops
Chelsea Lupkin

Swiss Roll Cake

This layer cake is a stunner. With chocolate cake, marshmallow filling, ganache AND over twenty Swiss Rolls, it's difficult to resist this show-stopper once you've taken a bite.

Get the Swiss Roll Cake recipe.

swiss roll cake
Ethan Calabrese

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