Easy Dessert Recipes: 10 Best Desserts to Make in Under 30 Minutes
Everyone loves sweet treats, but sometimes you need easy dessert recipes that can be made in a hurry. Whether you’re looking for quick dessert recipes or something with just a few ingredients, this article has you covered. These easy dessert ideas are perfect for anyone, whether you’re a busy parent or someone with limited baking experience. From banana pudding to chia coconut pudding, these desserts are ideal for any occasion. Plus, they take 30 minutes or less!
What Makes a Dessert “Easy”?
When we talk about easy dessert recipes, we mean desserts that require:
- Minimal ingredients: Most of these simple dessert recipes use everyday pantry staples like chocolate, sugar, butter, and fruit.
- Quick preparation time: These quick dessert recipes can be made in 30 minutes or less, ideal for busy days.
- Simple steps: You won’t need any advanced culinary skills to whip up these easy dessert recipes.
- No-bake options: Many of the best easy dessert recipes in this guide require no baking, making them perfect for any time of the year.
Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an afternoon snack, these easy dessert recipes are the perfect solution.
Top 10 Easy Dessert Recipes
1. Banana Pudding Recipe
Easy dessert recipes don’t get much better than this classic banana pudding. This no-bake dessert is a Southern staple and one of the easiest simple dessert recipes you can make.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of vanilla wafers
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 package of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped cream (or store-bought whipped topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the instant pudding as per package instructions.
- Slice the bananas.
- In a trifle bowl, start layering with vanilla wafers, followed by banana slices, and then vanilla pudding.
- Repeat the layers and top with whipped cream. Chill for 2 hours.
Banana pudding is one of the best easy dessert ideas because it’s quick and no-bake. It’s great for parties or as a family treat!
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
If you’re looking for elegant yet easy dessert recipes, chocolate-covered strawberries should be at the top of your list.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- Optional: White chocolate for drizzling
Simply melt the chocolate, dip the strawberries, and let them cool. This is one of those quick dessert recipes that’s perfect for any occasion.
3. Rice Krispies Treats
One of the most classic easy dessert recipes, Rice Krispies treats require just three ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 package marshmallows (10 oz)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Melt the butter and marshmallows, mix in the Rice Krispies, and press into a pan. Cool and cut into squares. These treats are perfect for making with kids and are one of the most versatile easy dessert ideas.
Find out how to customize Rice Krispies treats.
4. Bananas Foster
Among the top easy dessert recipes is bananas foster, a New Orleans classic. This dish feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients:
- 4 bananas
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- Cinnamon and vanilla ice cream
Caramelize the bananas in butter and sugar, add rum, and serve over ice cream. Bananas foster is the ultimate easy dessert recipe to impress your guests.
5. Strawberry Angel Food Trifle
This easy dessert recipe combines the airy texture of angel food cake with the sweetness of strawberries and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
- 1 store-bought angel food cake
- 1 pint strawberries
- 2 cups whipped cream
- Optional: Strawberry glaze
Layer cake, strawberries, and cream for a delicious easy dessert perfect for any event.
6. Chocolate Pretzels
These chocolate pretzels offer the perfect mix of salty and sweet. This quick dessert recipe is easy to customize with different toppings and chocolate types.
Ingredients:
- Mini pretzels
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- Optional: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt
Dip the pretzels in melted chocolate and top them with your favorite toppings. These easy dessert recipes are perfect for holidays or snacking.
7. Caramel Popcorn
Caramel popcorn is a great example of a simple dessert recipe that can be prepared quickly with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 12 cups popped popcorn
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
Make a caramel sauce and pour it over popcorn. Bake and enjoy a crunchy, sweet treat. This is one of the best easy dessert ideas for movie nights or parties.
8. Chia Coconut Pudding
For a healthier twist, chia coconut pudding is one of the best easy dessert recipes. It’s a no-bake option that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- Vanilla extract and fruit for topping
Mix everything, chill, and top with fruit for a nutritious, easy dessert recipe.
9. Peanut Butter S’mores
A fun twist on the classic campfire treat, peanut butter s’mores are a favorite among easy dessert recipes.
Ingredients:
- Graham crackers
- Peanut butter cups
- Marshmallows
Swap out chocolate for peanut butter cups and assemble your s’mores for a unique quick dessert recipe.
10. Mud and Worms
This playful dessert is a hit with kids and adults alike. Mud and worms combines chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms for a fun, easy dessert recipe.
Ingredients:
- Chocolate pudding
- Oreo cookies
- Gummy worms
Simply layer pudding, Oreos, and gummy worms for a creative, no-bake easy dessert recipe.
FAQs: People Also Ask
What is the easiest dessert to make from scratch?
Among the easy dessert recipes, banana pudding and Rice Krispies treats are among the easiest. They’re no-bake, require minimal ingredients, and come together quickly.
What dessert can I make with few ingredients?
If you want simple dessert recipes, try chocolate-covered strawberries or chia coconut pudding. Both require very few ingredients and are quick dessert recipes you can make in no time.
How can I make a dessert without baking?
Many of the best easy dessert recipes are no-bake. For example, banana pudding and mud and worms are no-bake options that are incredibly easy and fun to make.
Tips for Customizing Easy Dessert Recipes
- Substitute Ingredients: Make healthier easy dessert recipes by swapping in ingredients like coconut sugar or plant-based milk.
- Seasonal Variations: Use seasonal fruits to update your easy dessert recipes. Try blueberries in the summer or canned peaches in the winter.
- Add Extra Toppings: Sprinkle nuts, chocolate chips, or drizzle caramel to make your quick dessert recipes more indulgent.
Healthy Easy Dessert Ideas
For those looking for healthier easy dessert recipes, here are a few ideas:
- Chia Coconut Pudding: This is a nutritious, low-sugar dessert packed with omega-3s.
- Fruit Parfaits: Layer yogurt, fresh fruit, and granola for a quick and healthy dessert.
- Frozen Banana Bites: Dip banana slices in dark chocolate and freeze for a healthy, quick dessert recipe.
Why No-Bake Easy Dessert Recipes Are Perfect for Busy Days
No-bake easy dessert recipes are ideal for busy people. They require minimal ingredients and no time in the oven, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something sweet or need a last-minute treat for guests, no-bake simple dessert recipes are a great option.
Conclusion
With these easy dessert recipes, you’ll never have to stress over making sweet treats. From no-bake options like banana pudding to chocolate-covered strawberries, these recipes are perfect for any occasion. Try one of these quick dessert recipes the next time you’re short on time but craving something sweet!