Are you tired of breaking the bank on desserts that are supposed to be indulgent? Look no further! We’ve got 19 delicious and easy-to-make dessert recipes that won’t break the bank. From classic banana bread to decadent chocolate mug cakes, we’ve rounded up our favorite affordable treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without emptying your wallet.
From simple snacks like homemade rice pudding to indulgent desserts like flourless chocolate cake, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their dessert repertoire without sacrificing taste or quality. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients, so you can whip up a treat in no time.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 19 cheap dessert recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to indulge in some deliciously affordable desserts!
Classic Banana Bread
Moist, flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, and eggs. Stir until well combined.
4. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Homemade Rice Pudding
A classic comfort dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 3 cups whole milk, divided
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, 2 cups of milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened and the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining cup of milk and vanilla extract.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving warm or refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
A classic treat that’s quick to make and requires no baking! These chewy cookies are packed with peanut butter flavor and perfect for snacking on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. If desired, fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking time required! These cookies will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Simple Chocolate Mug Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this quick and easy recipe that yields a rich, chocolatey mug cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract to the mug. Whisk until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through and rises slightly.
4. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute.
5. If using, add chocolate chips on top of the cake and let them melt slightly.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars
These chewy bars combine the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a crunchy oat and brown sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of the oat mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle honey over apples.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Vanilla Pudding
Summary: This classic dessert recipe yields a creamy and delicious vanilla pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your Easy Vanilla Pudding!
3-Ingredient Nutella Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies are a perfect treat for anyone who loves the nutty flavor of Nutella. With only three ingredients, you can have a delicious batch ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter
– 1 cup (250g) sugar
– 2/3 cup (150g) Nutella
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Nutella and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Lemon Bars
Looking for a dessert that’s as refreshing as a spring day? These Quick Lemon Bars are the perfect answer, with their citrusy flavor and crumbly shortbread crust. With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these bars ready to go in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
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 softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and zest in a separate bowl.
5. Pour lemon mixture over baked crust. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Remove from oven; let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Fruit Sorbet
Make the most of your favorite fruits with this simple recipe for homemade fruit sorbet. Perfect for warm weather and a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or mango)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Optional: lemon juice or zest
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the fruit until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Stir in the fruit puree and optional lemon juice or zest (if using).
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a frozen dessert!
Flourless Chocolate Cake
This decadent cake is a game-changer for chocolate lovers. With only 5 ingredients and no flour, it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
- Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Jello Salad
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With its vibrant color and fruity flavor, this strawberry jello salad is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the bowl and stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into a large bowl or mold.
4. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the jello mixture.
5. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
A classic dessert that’s sure to impress, this pineapple upside-down cake is a warm and inviting treat that combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapples with the tender crumb of moist cake.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pineapple rings, drained and fresh
• 1 tablespoon cherry juice or orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Arrange pineapple rings on the prepared pan. Pour batter over pineapples.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Yield: 12 servings
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Bread Pudding
Easy Bread Pudding Recipe
A classic dessert made with bread, eggs, sugar, and spices, this easy bread pudding recipe is perfect for a quick treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the bread is well saturated.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Chip Blondies
These chewy blondies are packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips, giving you a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Apple Crisp
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh apples topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crust.
Ingredients:
• 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing 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. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peach Cobbler with Canned Peaches
A classic dessert gets a convenient twist with this recipe using canned peaches. This peach cobbler is perfect for a quick and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of peaches in heavy syrup (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Drain the peaches and reserve the syrup.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange the canned peaches on top of the batter.
7. Roll out the pie crust to fit the baking dish. Place it over the peaches.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Sugar Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic sugar cookie recipe that yields soft, chewy, and deliciously sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24-30 cookies
Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake
This Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the convenience of a dump cake. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree
– 1 yellow cake mix
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cake mix, milk, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the mixture.
5. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the brown sugar.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Microwave Caramel Popcorn
In just a few minutes, you can create this sweet and salty treat to satisfy your snack cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon butter
– Optional: sea salt or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Microwave the caramel mixture on high for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the warm caramel over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
5. Add butter and stir until melted and combined with the popcorn.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with sea salt or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Popcorn: 2-3 minutes
– Caramel mixture: 30 seconds
– Total time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Indulge in sweet treats without breaking the bank! This article features 19 delicious and affordable dessert recipes that are easy to make. From classic banana bread to decadent chocolate cake, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a busy bee or a culinary newbie, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to whip up something tasty on a budget. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in the sweetness!
