Desserts don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. In fact, some of the best treats can be made with just a few simple ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy 3-ingredient recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic cookies and bars to creamy ice cream and indulgent brownies, these recipes are perfect for anyone who loves baking but doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick treat to whip up after dinner or a college student craving a sweet study break, these 3-ingredient recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the sweet life with these easy dessert delights.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
This decadent fudge recipe combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of peanut butter, creating a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (60g) creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banana Ice Cream
Transform ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious ice cream without any dairy products! This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the frozen pineapple chunks, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-30 minutes).
4. Once churned, transfer the banana ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time:
– Churning time: 20-30 minutes
– Freezing time: at least 2 hours or overnight
Strawberry Mousse
This classic dessert recipe is a perfect way to showcase fresh strawberries in a light and airy mousse that’s sure to impress your guests. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and elegant treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry puree or jam
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, strawberry puree or jam, and vanilla extract.
3. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the sugar mixture until well combined.
4. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Nutella Brownies
Transform your brownie game with the addictive combination of dark chocolate and creamy Nutella. These indulgent treats are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth or as a show-stopping dessert for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup Nutella
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat; stir in Nutella until smooth.
4. Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time.
5. Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut Macaroons Recipe
A classic cookie that’s perfect for any occasion, these chewy coconut macaroons are a delicious treat to enjoy on their own or paired with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg white, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
3. Beat in egg white and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Lemon Bars
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, lemon bars are a tangy and sweet treat that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until just combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. While crust is baking, whisk together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
6. Pour lemon mixture over baked crust and smooth top.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
8. Allow bars to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Cookies
A classic favorite, these chewy peanut butter cookies are a staple in many households. With just the right amount of crunch and sweetness, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs until well mixed.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oreo Truffles
Transform classic Oreos into bite-sized treats with this simple recipe. Perfect for parties or snacking on the go, these Oreo truffles are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreo cookies
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ coating or melted chocolate for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, crush the Oreos until they are finely ground.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the Oreo mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each Oreo ball in the powdered sugar to coat.
5. If desired, melt chocolate or confectioners’ coating and dip the truffles for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Chill the truffles in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These truffles require no cooking time.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Transform fresh strawberries into a decadent treat with just a few simple steps and some rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 fresh strawberries, washed and dried
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet or milk chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for added texture
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about three-fourths of the fruit.
4. Place the coated strawberries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut onto the chocolate-covered strawberries for added flavor and texture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t involve cooking. Simply let the chocolate set in the refrigerator!
Pineapple Dole Whip
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this creamy and refreshing Pineapple Dole Whip! This vegan-friendly treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen pineapple chunks, coconut cream, maple syrup, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add vanilla extract and blend for an additional 10 seconds.
4. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Rice Krispie Treats
Classic Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Create a sweet and crunchy treat perfect for any occasion with this simple recipe!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 9 tablespoons marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool and harden for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful mug cake that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup diced apple (about 1 small apple)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add butter, egg, diced apple, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Remove from microwave and top with whipped cream or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin puree with the richness of dark chocolate chips, perfect for a cozy fall afternoon. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of baking, you can have a batch fresh from the oven in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together butter, sugars, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Vanilla Ice Cream
In this classic recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a rich and creamy vanilla ice cream that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the pure vanilla extract and whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and pour it into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around 20-30 minutes.
6. Once the ice cream has finished churning, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 1.5 quarts of creamy vanilla ice cream
Chocolate Mousse
Experience the decadence of a classic French dessert with this simple recipe for chocolate mousse. Made with just a few ingredients, this light-as-air treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Melted chocolate should still be warm; fold it into the egg-whipped cream mixture until smooth.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Peanut Butter Banana Bites
No-bake energy balls that combine the creaminess of peanut butter and the sweetness of bananas, perfect for a quick snack or on-the-go treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mashed bananas and peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the rolled oats, honey, and salt to the banana-peanut butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 bites.
4. Place the peanut butter banana bites on a plate or tray, leaving some space between each bite.
5. If desired, top with chopped nuts or shredded coconut for an extra crunchy topping.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready to go straight from the mixing bowl.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Bites!
Blueberry Yogurt Popsicles
Cool Down with a Refreshing Treat: Blueberry Yogurt Popsicles Recipe!
These sweet and tangy popsicles are perfect for hot summer days. Made with fresh blueberries, creamy yogurt, and a hint of honey, they’re a delicious and healthy snack that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the yogurt, blueberries, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
3. Insert popsicle sticks or wooden skewers.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Tips:
– Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor, but frozen ones will work too.
– Adjust the amount of honey to your taste if you prefer it less sweet.
– These popsicles make a great snack or dessert for kids and adults alike!
Caramel Popcorn Clusters
Elevate your snack game with these addictive caramel popcorn clusters, perfect for movie nights or parties. With a crunchy texture and a sweet and salty flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 cup mixed nuts (such as peanuts, almonds, and pecans)
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Caramel bits or caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until caramel reaches desired color.
4. Remove from heat and carefully pour over popcorn, stirring until well coated.
5. Stir in mixed nuts and sea salt.
6. Drop by spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, allowing clusters to cool and harden completely.
7. Drizzle with caramel bits or sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in sweet treats with these 18 easy recipes that require just three ingredients! From classic desserts like chocolate peanut butter fudge and strawberry mousse, to creative twists like banana ice cream and caramel popcorn clusters, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Treat yourself or share with friends and family – either way, you can’t go wrong with these simple yet delicious dessert delights.
