18 Delicious Cheap Dessert Recipes Easy to Make

Dessert – the sweetest part of any meal. But let’s be real, not everyone has hours to spend in the kitchen perfecting a complicated recipe. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 18 delicious and affordable dessert recipes that are quick and easy to make. From classic treats like rice pudding and banana bread, to decadent indulgences like chocolate oat bars and stovetop cinnamon sugar donuts, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a sweet treat after a long day, or a parent seeking a fun and simple activity to do with the kids, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They won’t break the bank! So go ahead, indulge in your sweet tooth, and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you can whip up a delicious dessert in no time.

Classic Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Classic Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This comforting dessert is a staple of many cultures, and for good reason – the combination of creamy rice, sweet milk, and warm cinnamon is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious pudding that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Homemade Banana Bread

Homemade Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this classic banana bread recipe is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
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: 55-60 minutes

Simple No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

Simple No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
These no-bake treats are a perfect solution for hot summer days or when you’re short on time. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious batch of chewy bars that are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and serve.

Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in just a few minutes of mixing and pressing.

Quick and Easy Apple Crisp

Quick and Easy Apple Crisp
This classic dessert is a staple for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a warm and delicious apple crisp on the table in no time.

Ingredients:

– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Vanilla Mug Cake in Minutes

Vanilla Mug Cake in Minutes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple and speedy vanilla mug cake recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes!

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1-2 drops of milk (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. If desired, add 1-2 drops of milk to adjust the cake’s consistency.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 20 seconds (or 1:20).
5. Remove the mug from the microwave and let the cake cool for a minute.
6. Enjoy your warm and delicious vanilla mug cake!

Cooking Time: 1 minute and 20 seconds

Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these light and fluffy pancakes, perfectly balanced by the sweet richness of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and sugar.
3. Add the melted butter to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with maple syrup.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple for any peanut butter lover. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of chewy and delicious treats in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
6. Remove from the 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

Homemade Chocolate Pudding

Homemade Chocolate Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent homemade chocolate pudding recipe. Made with simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously creamy treat in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces high-quality dark or semisweet chocolate, melted
– 2 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted chocolate and salt until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks until smooth. Temper the egg yolks by gradually whisking in a small amount of the warm pudding mixture.
6. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the pudding and whisk until fully incorporated.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Stovetop Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Stovetop Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Get ready for a sweet treat that’s surprisingly easy to make! These stovetop cinnamon sugar donuts are perfect for a quick dessert or breakfast on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or donut pan over medium heat. Grease with cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough into the skillet, about 2-3 at a time.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch

Lemon Drizzle Cake

Lemon Drizzle Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of lemon zest and juice, topped with a refreshing drizzle of lemon glaze. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Lemon glaze (see below)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and butter until smooth. Add lemon juice and zest; mix well.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool before drizzling with lemon glaze (see below).

Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.

Easy Bread Pudding with Raisins

Easy Bread Pudding with Raisins
Easy Bread Pudding with Raisins Recipe

Moist and flavorful bread pudding filled with sweet raisins is a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in raisins and salt.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Microwave Brownie in a Mug

Microwave Brownie in a Mug
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this speedy microwave brownie recipe that’s ready in just minutes!

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in milk and stir until well combined.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the brownie is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes

Tips: Use a large mug to ensure the brownie cooks evenly. If you prefer a gooey center, cook for 1 minute and check. If not done, continue microwaving in 15-second increments until desired consistency is reached.

Enjoy your quick fix brownie!

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
This classic dessert is a staple of warm weather gatherings and special occasions. Fresh strawberries, sweet biscuits, and whipped cream come together to create a simple yet impressive treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough forms. Turn out onto a floured surface and gently knead 1-2 times.
4. Roll out dough to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into rounds or squares.
5. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. Allow biscuits to cool completely before serving with sliced strawberries and whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Baked Cinnamon Apples

Baked Cinnamon Apples
Warm up with this deliciously sweet and comforting treat! Baked Cinnamon Apples are a perfect dessert or snack for any time of the year, especially during the fall season.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or other varieties work well)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the sliced apples to the mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the apple mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the apples.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Simple Chocolate Chip Muffins

Simple Chocolate Chip Muffins
Start your day with a warm and satisfying treat – these Simple Chocolate Chip Muffins are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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, combine melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Quick Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Quick Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Quick Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Elevate your dessert game with this simple and scrumptious pineapple upside-down cake that’s ready in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of batter, reserving some for topping.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over pineapple rings.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired. Enjoy!

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple of any cookie jar. With their sweet and slightly nutty flavor, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing with friends.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in raisins.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch

Easy Homemade Fudge

Easy Homemade Fudge
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious batch of creamy fudge at home with this simple recipe. Perfect for snacking or gifting, this classic treat is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12 ounces (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat; stir in chocolate chips until melted. Add vanilla extract and butter; stir until smooth.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
6. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Indulge in sweet treats without breaking the bank! This collection of 18 scrumptious dessert recipes is perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without overspending. From classic rice pudding with cinnamon to stovetop cinnamon sugar donuts, these mouthwatering treats are easy to make and budget-friendly. With a range of options from no-bake chocolate oat bars to homemade strawberry shortcake, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced cook, these recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Get ready to indulge in sweet treats without breaking the bank!

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