Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 decadent party dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, holiday gathering, or just need a treat for yourself and friends, we’ve got you covered. From classic cheesecakes and brownies to creative twists on old favorites, our collection of indulgent desserts is perfect for anyone looking to take their party game to the next level.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering dessert recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more. From rich and creamy to light and fruity, there’s something for every palate on this list. So go ahead, get baking, and make this party one to remember!
Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent chocolate lava cakes, perfectly paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The gooey centers and crispy edges will melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality bittersweet chocolate, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk together eggs and vanilla extract. Add melted chocolate and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a strawberry-infused cheesecake filling wrapped in a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares.
4. Place a spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each square. Top with a dollop of cream cheese mixture (softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract).
5. Fold squares in half to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts
These bite-sized treats are the perfect pick-me-up on a sunny day. A buttery pastry crust, a tangy lemon curd filling, and a fluffy meringue topping come together to create a delightful combination that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups meringue topping (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. Place a spoonful of lemon curd on each piece, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
4. Fold pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top with meringue topping and return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Total Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These classic cupcakes combine the subtle tang of red velvet cake with the creamy richness of cream cheese frosting, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups 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 milk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; 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
Tiramisu Trifle in Mason Jars
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and easy-to-make Tiramisu Trifle in Mason Jars. Layers of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and whipped cream come together to create a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and cocoa powder for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee or espresso for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. Begin assembling the trifles by placing a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of each Mason jar.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream (if using).
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and chill until ready to serve.
Caramel Apple Nachos with Whipped Cream
This recipe takes the classic nacho to new heights by adding crispy apples and caramel sauce, all atop a bed of creamy whipped cream. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 2-3 apples, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and lightly toasted.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of the baked tortilla chips.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
7. Top with whipped cream and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse! This sweet treat is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want a refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh raspberries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 6 oz white chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted white chocolate until well combined.
5. Fold the raspberry puree into the white chocolate mixture until well combined.
6. Stir in the softened butter.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Peanut Butter Brownie Parfaits
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and decadent Peanut Butter Brownie Parfaits, featuring layers of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter mousse, and crunchy peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter and heavy cream until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. To assemble parfaits, layer brownies, peanut butter mousse, and chopped peanuts in small glasses or jars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (brownie baking time)
Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies
These moist and flavorful whoopie pies combine the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of spices, making them a perfect treat for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and pumpkin puree until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger; beat until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Pudding Shooters
These bite-sized treats are a playful twist on classic banana pudding. Perfect for parties or as a unique dessert to impress your friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pudding mix, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until smooth.
2. Fold in sliced bananas until well coated with the pudding mixture.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the banana-pudding mixture into small glasses or shot glasses.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These shooters are a no-bake treat.
Key Lime Pie Bars with Graham Cracker Crust
These tangy and sweet bars are a twist on the classic Key Lime Pie. A buttery graham cracker crust is topped with a creamy key lime filling, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime 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, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter; stir until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add key lime juice and zest; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour filling over cooled crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Let bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Salted Caramel Chocolate Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the deep flavors of caramel and chocolate with a touch of salt for a sophisticated dessert experience. Perfect for gift-giving or indulging in yourself, these truffles are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
3. Let the caramel cool slightly before whisking in chocolate chips until smooth.
4. Stir in caramel sauce until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each truffle in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
7. If desired, roll the truffles in chopped nuts before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Blueberry Cobbler in Mini Skillets
Transform individual servings of blueberry cobbler into adorable mini treats perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
– Mini skillets or ramekins (6-8)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together blueberries, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until combined.
5. Divide the blueberry mixture among the mini skillets or ramekins.
6. Top each with biscuit or cobbler topping, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oreo Cookie Balls Dipped in Chocolate
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of crunch and chew, wrapped in rich chocolate. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delicious Oreo cookie balls dipped in chocolate at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreos
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, crush the Oreos into fine crumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the Oreo crumbs to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip each Oreo ball into the melted white chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly. Place on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are topped with a caramelized pineapple ring and a crispy brown sugar crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Fresh pineapple slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, pineapple juice, and crushed pineapple.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of each cupcake.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Skewers
Elevate your snacking game with these bite-sized, indulgent treats that combine fresh strawberries and rich chocolate. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack to impress your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 10 wooden skewers (or bamboo sticks)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and hull the strawberries.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Thread a strawberry onto each skewer.
4. Dip the strawberry end of each skewer into the melted chocolate, coating about 2/3 of the fruit.
5. Place the dipped skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Serve chilled and garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and chill.
Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the sweetness of cherries and the crunch of almonds, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon cherry jam or preserves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, sliced almonds, cherry jam, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Molten S’mores Dip with Marshmallows
Transform the classic campfire treat into a decadent dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. With this recipe, you’ll create a rich, gooey center surrounded by toasted marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup marshmallows, toasted and mini-marshmallows for garnish
– Graham cracker crumbs, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
3. Add brown sugar, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) cast-iron skillet or a deep-dish pie plate.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish with toasted marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these 18 decadent dessert recipes! From classic treats like chocolate lava cake and strawberry cheesecake, to unique creations like caramel apple nachos and tiramisu trifle in mason jars, there’s something for everyone. These indulgent desserts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and leave a lasting impression.
