The Grand Finale Every Meal Deserves 29 Dessert Recipes

Ending a meal on a high note doesn’t have to be complicated or over the top. These 29 dessert recipes prove you don’t need hours in the kitchen to make something that actually feels worth it. They’re simple enough to pull off but bold enough to steal the show. Expect empty plates and maybe applause.

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

A stack of chocolate truffles with white icing, one cut open to reveal a peanut butter filling.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven, I’ve got the perfect solution. No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are a hit for their creamy center and chocolatey coating, and they set up right in your fridge. They’re great for when you need to whip up a quick treat without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Close-up of a marshmallow swirl cookie with a bite taken out, revealing its gooey interior and white filling. Other cookies are partially visible in the background.
Marshmallow Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Got a soft spot for marshmallows and cookies? You should try Marshmallow Swirl Cookies; they’re like a little party in cookie form. When you bite into one, the gooey marshmallow and the buttery cookie dough combine into something really comforting.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Baked Alaska

A slice of baked Alaska with a toasted meringue exterior and green ice cream center being lifted from the dessert.
Baked Alaska. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A showstopper dessert that’ll have everyone talking is always a win. Baked Alaska turns heads with its layers of cake and ice cream topped with toasted meringue. It’s an old-school dessert with a wow factor, both in looks and flavor. Serving this at a dinner party is sure to earn you some serious dessert cred.
Get the Recipe: Baked Alaska

Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Close-up of chocolate brownies topped with sea salt flakes on a baking tray.
Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re into gadgets and love a good brownie, you might be interested to know you can combine the two. Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies come together quickly, with the air fryer giving them that crisp edge and fudgy center everyone digs. It’s a game changer for brownie lovers who are short on time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re in the mood for comfort food but want something on the lighter side, give Easy Banana Pudding a shot. It’s creamy, it’s full of flavor, and it comes together without any complicated steps. Whether for a weeknight treat or a potluck, it’s a reliable hit that seems to be everyone’s grandma’s secret recipe.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Close-up of Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies filled with white chocolate chips and raspberries, topped with fresh raspberries and white chocolate chunks.
Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Say you’re torn between a cookie and a cake – why not have something that’s a bit of both? Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies feature the richness of white chocolate with bright bursts of raspberry, a combination that’s hard to beat. They’re chewy, they’re comforting, and everyone who tries one just has to have another.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you enjoy coffee and dessert at the same time, there’s one classic that instantly comes to mind. Tiramisu is a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers surrounded by a fluffy, creamy filling. It’s rich but not overly sweet, and it’s often the grand finish to a nice dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Love the contrast of sweet and salty? Then Salted Caramel Cheesecake might just become your new favorite dessert. Each slice gives you a creamy cheesecake experience with the enhanced touch of salted caramel. It’s a modern twist on a classic cheesecake that’s sure to win over guests or just make your weekend feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Fruit salad in a blue bowl with a spoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright, fresh, and lightly sweetened, this dish is a break from heavier desserts. Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing lets the natural sweetness shine. The simple dressing adds just enough to bring it all together. A refreshingly light choice for any time.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Apple Dump Cake

Close-up of an apple crumble dessert with a golden crust, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, and a spoon placed inside the dish.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Ever get a hankering for cake that’s both easy to make and irresistibly good? Look no further than Apple Dump Cake. You basically just “dump” the ingredients together, and out comes a warm, cinnamon-apple-infused treat. It’s the kind of dessert that beckons for a scoop of ice cream and the comfiest spot on the couch.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

Sopapilla Cheesecake

A piece of cheesecake on a plate next to a bowl.
Sopapilla Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re craving something creamy with a touch of pastry, Sopapilla Cheesecake delivers. It marries the creaminess of cheesecake with a cinnamon-sugar dusted pastry layer. It strikes a balance that’s just right – not too sweet, not too rich.
Get the Recipe: Sopapilla Cheesecake

Easy Whoopie Pie

Chocolate whoopie pies with cream and powdered sugar.
Easy Whoopie Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ever want to combine cake and cookies into one bite? Now you can with Easy Whoopie Pie. You’ve got two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiching a fluffy filling, making for a sweet little mouthful. They’re surprisingly simple to make and even easier to make disappear. Bring these to the office, and you’ll be everyone’s best friend.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Peanut butter isn’t just for sandwiches; it makes for a mean dessert too. Peanut Butter Cake is moist, packed with flavor, and unapologetically indulgent. It’s something about the rich peanut butter that makes people come back for a second slice. And it’s just as appropriate for a weeknight treat as it is for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie with a swirl of cream on it.
Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a southern classic that deserves more attention. Sweet Potato Pie offers a smooth, subtly sweet filling with a homey vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s traditionally served up at special dinners but doesn’t need a fancy reason to be enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce.
Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When it comes to quick desserts, sometimes the simplest things are the most rewarding. Fried Banana is a sweet sensation, with caramelized edges and a warm, soft center. It’s a down-to-earth dessert that can be dressed up or eaten just as it is. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to use up bananas that are about to overripen.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Close-up of three stacked blondies with chocolate chips, resembling cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars, one of which has a bite taken out of it.
Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Maybe you’ve got a box of cake mix sitting around and want to turn it into something unexpectedly awesome. Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are here to change the game. They’re part cookie, part cake, and fully pleasing for a sweet tooth. They’re also dangerously easy to make, which might just make them a regular occurrence.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Grape Salad

Homemade fresh grape salad in a serving bowl with walnuts scattered on top.
Grape Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who knew grapes could be the star of a dessert? Grape Salad is a bit of an underrated gem, creamy and dotted with these juicy bites of fruit. It’s refreshing and not overly sweet, perfect for when you want something that doesn’t weigh you down. Whether you need something for a potluck or just want a fuss-free dessert, this is a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

A close-up image of layered lemon raspberry cake slices topped with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you enjoy a bit of tartness with your sweet, then Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars might just be your thing. These bars blend the brightness of lemon and raspberries with the rich base of cheesecake. They’re the type of treat that’s as enjoyable to eat as they are to look at. And they’re perfect for sharing – or not, your call.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks.
Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you just can’t beat a classic like Banana Bread. It’s comforting, it’s easy to make, and it almost feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s great for breakfast, dessert, or just a snack. Plus, you get to feel a little virtuous for using up those bananas on the counter.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Heart Shaped Cookies

Heart-shaped cookies partially dipped in red icing, decorated with pink, white, and silver sprinkles, including stars and hearts, scattered on a white surface.
Heart Shaped Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for something a bit special and sweet? Heart Shaped Cookies could be just what you need. These cookies are adorable and customizable, and they spread the love with every bite. Whether for a gift or as a fun baking project, they’ve got that homemade charm that’s universally appealing.
Get the Recipe: Heart Shaped Cookies

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a dessert that’s rich, chocolatey, and comfort food to its core. Mississippi Mud Pie is a decadent treat that never fails to impress with its layers and textures. It’s perfect for chocoholics and sure to be a hit whenever you serve it. The name might be muddy, but the flavor is pure heaven.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth.
Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Want a twist on the classic caramel apple? Try Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls for a dessert that’s part sweet roll, part caramel apple goodness. They’re easy to pop in your mouth for a quick sweet fix. And they make for a great dessert when you want something a bit different but still cozy and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you just need a little zing with your sweetness, which is where Lemon Bars come in. They’re tangy, sweet, and have that irresistible buttery crust. Whether for a picnic or an afternoon tea, they’re a refreshing choice that’s pretty straightforward to make. And they’re always a pleasant surprise on a dessert table full of chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re torn between nutty and creamy, Pecan Pie Cheesecake offers the best of both worlds. It stands out as a unique treat that’s sure to get people talking – and asking for the recipe. The blend of smooth cheesecake and crunchy pecans is a combination that just works. And it’s a total winner for your next family dinner or holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate.
Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about Homemade Bread Pudding that’s just timeless. It takes something as simple as bread and enhances it to a warm, comforting dessert. It’s one of those desserts that feels like a throwback to simpler times, yet remains a staple. Serve this up, and watch as it brings back memories and creates new ones.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who can’t get enough of that classic cookie, Oreo Cheesecake takes it to another level. Combining cheesecake creaminess with the crunch of Oreo cookies, it’s a surefire hit for both kids and adults. It’s a pop culture favorite for a reason – everyone seems to love a good Oreo treat.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you love the combo of tart and sweet, Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting might just be your dream dessert. Each little cake is a burst of bright flavor topped with a swipe of delectably tart frosting. They look as cheerful as they taste and are sure to be a hit at any event or just because you deserve a treat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background.
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ready for something that’s rich and balances sweet with a hint of salt? Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake delivers just that. It’s a luxurious dessert that manages to be both indulgent and elegantly balanced. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple Tuesday night, this cake makes it feel like a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re in the mood for a classic dessert with a fruity twist, Cherry Cheesecake could be the perfect treat. It combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet tang of cherries. This dessert is as gratifying to serve as it is to eat. And it always seems to be what everyone’s craving without even knowing it.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

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