Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth! We’ve gathered 20 of the most popular and mouth-watering dessert recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic treats like New York-style cheesecake and strawberry shortcake, to decadent indulgences like chocolate lava cake and cream-filled eclairs, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy, light and airy, or gooey and caramel-like, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, indulge your cravings, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these scrumptious desserts.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of sweet treats, sharing recipes that are sure to become staples in your dessert repertoire. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists and creative combinations, we’ve got 20 delicious popular dessert recipes that you simply must try!
Classic New York Cheesecake
Get ready to experience a creamy, smooth, and rich cheesecake that’s sure to impress your friends and family. This classic recipe is a timeless favorite, with its velvety texture and subtle tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
4. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract; beat until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely on wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
Rich, gooey chocolate cake filled with a velvety center – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared ramekins, filling about 3/4 of each.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Tiramisu
Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert, is a creamy and decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. This homemade recipe yields a rich and flavorful dessert with layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liqueur, topped with a velvety mascarpone cream.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and softened butter; whisk until well combined.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into espresso mixture (cocoa powder + 1 tablespoon brewed espresso) for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
4. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. Top with half the mascarpone cream.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder (if using).
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Slice and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to assemble, plus chilling time
Strawberry Shortcake
Classic strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. This simple recipe yields tender biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, all coming together in a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, and a pinch of salt.
5. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow biscuits to cool before splitting in half horizontally.
9. Top with sliced strawberries, whipped cream (optional), and confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Classic Combination
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the iconic flavors of red velvet cake with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, red food coloring, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Apple Pie with Flaky Crust
This beloved dessert is a staple of American baking. With a flaky crust and tender apples, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, stirring with fork until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
5. In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
6. Arrange apple mixture on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold other half over apples, pressing edges to seal.
7. Place pie on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
A creamy and comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of vanilla wafers, perfect for a quick and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 12-15 vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pudding mix, milk, heavy cream, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Fold in the sliced bananas.
3. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
4. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional vanilla wafers if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in no time.
Crème Brûlée with Caramelized Sugar
This classic French dessert, Crème Brûlée, is elevated by the addition of caramelized sugar. The creamy custard base is infused with the warmth of vanilla, while the crunchy caramel topping adds a satisfying textural element.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, cream, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each ramekin.
10. Caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Stir in milk, blueberries, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate chips, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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 together peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful bread combines the comfort of pumpkin spice with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy fall treat or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, walnuts, egg, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this Key Lime Pie with a Graham Cracker Crust is a refreshing treat that’s sure to please. The tangy key lime filling is balanced by the crunchy, sweet crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the pie:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Whipped cream and lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust: Place crust in oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, heavy cream, sugar, and lime zest.
5. Pour filling into crust: Pour filling into prepared crust and smooth top.
6. Bake pie: Place pie in oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 23-28 minutes
Molten Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
This giant cookie skillet is the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Rich and gooey, it’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared skillet and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse
Add a touch of elegance to your dessert table with this light and airy Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse. The perfect blend of sweet and tart, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 8 ounces white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Stir in the raspberry puree and vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this carrot cake recipe combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of cream cheese frosting. With its tender crumb and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, eggs, carrots, and walnuts (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes per cake
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Sweet Treat: Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Elevate your snack game with this classic combination of juicy strawberries and rich chocolate. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large strawberries
– 1 cup (200g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the strawberries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about three-quarters of the fruit.
4. If using shortening, dip the dipped strawberries into the shortening to create a smooth finish.
5. Place the coated strawberries on parchment paper or a silicone mat.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon Streusel
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this peach cobbler is filled with sweet, juicy peaches and topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced peaches
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until the peaches are evenly coated.
4. Pour the peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with cinnamon streusel topping (see below).
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbly.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
1. In a small bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle topping evenly over the peach mixture.
Oreo Icebox Cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days, this Oreo Icebox Cake is a no-bake treat that combines the flavors of Oreos and whipped cream. With just a few simple ingredients and some chill time in the fridge, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 12-16 Oreo cookies, crushed
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fold in the crushed Oreos until well incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or a springform pan.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Release the cake from the pan and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This cake is no-bake.
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s nothing quite like a warm, chewy chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven. This simple recipe yields a batch of soft, delicious treats that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
9. 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
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
A creamy and sweet dessert paired with a tangy berry compote, perfect for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with the vanilla bean. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl; discard solids.
3. Pour mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. For the compote, combine berries, sugar, honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries have broken down and mixture has thickened slightly.
5. Serve chilled Panna Cotta topped with warm berry compote.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (not including refrigeration time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat extravaganza! This article features 20 mouth-watering and popular dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic New York Cheesecake to decadent Chocolate Lava Cake, you’ll find something to please every palate. Other standout desserts include Strawberry Shortcake, Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, Apple Pie with Flaky Crust, and many more. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, fruit fan, or just looking for a sweet indulgence, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
