27 Desserts So Fast, You’ll Be Enjoying Them Before Dinner

Craving something sweet but don't want to wait long? These desserts are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time, so you can enjoy them before dinner. With easy prep and minimal cooking time, you'll be treating yourself to a tasty dessert without the long wait.

A fork holding a piece of cake with cream cheese frosting over a frosted cake mix mug cake on a table. — Cake Mix Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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Red White and Blue Salad

A bowl of creamy berry salad topped with fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries. A gold spoon is placed beside the bowl, and there is a small dish of blueberries in the background. — Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fruit-based dessert is as colorful as it is quick, combining fresh ingredients for a naturally sweet treat. Perfect for a festive occasion or a casual weeknight, it comes together effortlessly. The combination of berries and cream makes it both refreshing and satisfying. A great choice when you want dessert that feels light yet enjoyable. Ready in just minutes, it’s a simple way to end your meal.
Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

Carrot Cake in a Mug

Carrot cake muffin topped with cream cheese frosting and chopped nuts, served on a white plate with grated carrot and walnuts nearby. — Carrot Cake in a Mug. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mug cake brings the classic flavors of carrot cake into a single-serving dessert that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for when you’re craving something warm and sweet without baking a full cake. The combination of spices and sweetness makes it feel like a comforting treat. Ideal for enjoying after dinner or as an afternoon pick-me-up. A quick and easy option for carrot cake lovers.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake in a Mug

Cookies and Cream Mousse

Two glasses of cookies and cream dessert topped with oreo cookies, served on a white tablecloth with a yellow-striped napkin and spoons. — Cookies and Cream Mousse. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mousse is a creamy dessert that’s ready to enjoy in no time, offering the classic flavor combination of cookies and cream. Perfect for individual servings, it’s great for entertaining or a quick after-dinner treat. The smooth texture and rich taste make it feel special without requiring much effort. A simple and elegant dessert option that comes together quickly. A perfect choice for a no-fuss sweet finish to your day.
Get the Recipe: Cookies and Cream Mousse

Cream Cheese Danish

A pastry with berry filling and white drizzle on a white plate is accompanied by strawberry slices. A red and white checkered cloth, blueberries, and a bowl of strawberries are nearby. — Cream Cheese Danish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This cream cheese Danish is a quick pastry-style dessert that feels indulgent without the wait. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a last-minute treat or brunch addition. The combination of flaky layers and creamy filling makes it a go-to choice for a sweet snack. Ideal for sharing or enjoying solo, it’s easy to make and satisfying. A versatile dessert that works well for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

Chocolate Puff Pastry

Close-up of a flaky pastry cut open to reveal a filling of chocolate, with a visible crispy golden crust. — Chocolate Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This puff pastry dessert is a fast and impressive way to enjoy the rich flavor of chocolate. The flaky pastry pairs perfectly with the sweet filling, making it a crowd-pleaser. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for unexpected guests or a quick after-dinner treat. Serve it warm for an extra comforting touch. A simple and elegant dessert that feels special without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Puff Pastry

Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

These no-bake cookies are perfect for when you need dessert in a hurry, combining chocolate and oatmeal for a chewy, sweet treat. With no oven required, they’re great for warm days or quick cravings. Easy to mix and portion, they’re ready to enjoy in no time. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack, they’re versatile and satisfying. A quick dessert option that delivers great flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

This mug cake brings all the classic flavors of a chocolate chip cookie into a warm, single-serving dessert. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for when you want a quick treat without baking a full batch. The gooey chocolate chips make each bite a sweet escape. Enjoy it as a post-dinner dessert or a cozy snack. A fast and simple option for chocolate chip lovers.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

Air Fryer S'mores

A s'more with melted marshmallow and chocolate between graham crackers on a white plate. — Air Fryer S'mores. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer s'mores offer the classic campfire treat without the need for a fire, ready in just minutes. Perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or sharing with friends, they’re simple to make. The gooey marshmallow and melted chocolate create a warm, comforting dessert. Great for movie nights or a quick after-dinner treat. A fast and fun way to enjoy s'mores indoors.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S'mores

Nutella Mug Cake

Homemade chocolate mug cake topped with whipped cream, served with a spoon and a small nutella jar on the side. — Nutella Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Nutella mug cake is a rich and creamy dessert that’s ready in under five minutes. Perfect for when you want something chocolatey and warm without spending time baking. Its single-serving size makes it an easy option for any time of day. Ideal for pairing with a scoop of ice cream or enjoying on its own. A quick way to enjoy a chocolate fix.
Get the Recipe: Nutella Mug Cake

3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake

This Oreo mousse cake uses just three ingredients to create a creamy and satisfying dessert. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for last-minute gatherings or an evening treat. The smooth texture and classic Oreo flavor make it a favorite for all ages. Great for serving in individual portions or enjoying solo. A simple and quick option for when you need a dessert in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake

Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

A plate with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, one cookie is broken in half to show the soft inside. — Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These small-batch cookies are perfect for when you want the warm comfort of fresh-baked cookies without making a full batch. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for quick desserts or late-night cravings. The rich chocolate chips and soft texture make them a timeless treat. Great for enjoying with a glass of milk or sharing with a friend. A fast and easy way to enjoy homemade cookies.
Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

A plate of apple crisp with chunks of apple, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an oat crumble topping. — Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This apple crisp is a warm and comforting dessert made for one, cooked quickly in the air fryer. It’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of baked apples without needing a full recipe. The crisp topping pairs perfectly with the tender fruit for a satisfying bite. Ideal for a solo dessert or a quick snack on a chilly evening. A sweet treat that comes together in no time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

Cake Mix Mug Cake

This mug cake uses a simple cake mix to create a single-serving dessert in minutes. Perfect for those moments when you want something warm and sweet without extra effort. The soft, fluffy texture makes it a great choice for pairing with a drizzle of frosting or a dollop of whipped cream. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings or casual snacking. A quick way to enjoy cake with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Mug Cake

Red Velvet Mug Cake

Red velvet cake with a layer of cream cheese frosting in a white ramekin, next to a spoon with a bite taken out, on a white background. — Red Velvet Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mug cake brings the classic flavor of red velvet cake into a quick, single-serving dessert. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s perfect for when you want something special without a lot of prep. The rich color and soft texture make it feel like a decadent treat. Great for a cozy night in or as a post-dinner sweet. A simple and fast way to enjoy the charm of red velvet.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Mug Cake

Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Glazed apple cinnamon fritters on a plate with front one broken in half. — Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These apple fritters cook quickly in the air fryer, offering a warm and crispy dessert without the wait. The tender apple pieces and lightly spiced batter make them a comforting option. Perfect for serving with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze. Ready in minutes, they’re ideal for a quick dessert or a sweet breakfast treat. A simple and flavorful way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Apple Mug Cake

This mug cake combines the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon into a quick, single-serving dessert. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s perfect for when you’re craving something cozy and sweet. The soft texture and fruity base make it a great option for autumn evenings or anytime you want a comforting treat. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. A fast way to enjoy the essence of apple pie.
Get the Recipe: Apple Mug Cake

Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

Cinnamon apple slices on a white plate. — Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These cinnamon apples are cooked in the air fryer, making them a quick and easy dessert or snack. The natural sweetness of the apples pairs perfectly with the warm spice of cinnamon. Ready in minutes, they’re ideal for serving on their own or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Great for a cozy evening treat or a light dessert. A fast and wholesome way to enjoy something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate oatmeal cookies on a white plate, one broken in half, showing a soft interior, with loose chocolate chips scattered around on a white surface. — Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These cookies combine the heartiness of oatmeal with the sweetness of chocolate chips in a small-batch recipe. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for when you want a freshly baked treat without leftovers. The chewy texture and warm flavors make them a comforting dessert option. Great for enjoying with a cup of tea or as an evening snack. A quick and easy way to enjoy classic cookies.
Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Brownie Bites

Close-up of a hand holding a half-eaten chocolate brownie with gooey chocolate chunks, with another partial brownie blurred in the background. — Brownie Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These brownie bites are rich and fudgy, perfect for a quick dessert that feels indulgent. Their small size makes them ideal for portion control or sharing with others. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re great for parties or as an after-dinner treat. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them on their own. A simple and satisfying way to enjoy chocolate in bite-sized form.
Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

Two slices of cinnamon roll cake covered in creamy frosting, placed on a white plate with extra drizzle of sauce. — Cinnamon Roll in a Mug. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mug dessert brings the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll into a quick, single-serving option. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for when you’re craving something warm and sweet without baking a full batch. The soft texture and spiced sweetness make it a great choice for breakfast or dessert. Ideal for pairing with a drizzle of icing or cream cheese topping. A fast and easy way to enjoy the essence of a cinnamon roll.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

Best Chocolate Mug Cake

A spoon lifting a bite of freshly made chocolate mug cake from a white mug, with chocolate chips in a small bowl in the background. — Best Chocolate Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chocolate mug cake delivers a rich, moist dessert that’s ready in just a few minutes. Its single-serving size makes it a convenient choice for a quick treat without leftovers. Perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings, it’s great on its own or topped with whipped cream. Ready in no time, it’s a go-to option for an easy dessert fix. A quick and fuss-free way to enjoy homemade chocolate cake.
Get the Recipe: Best Chocolate Mug Cake

Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

A plate of sugar cookies with a mug of milk and a gray cloth in the background. — Small-Batch Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sugar cookies are soft and buttery, made in small batches for quick enjoyment. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for when you want fresh-baked cookies without extra effort. The simple, classic flavor makes them a versatile option for any occasion. Enjoy them plain or add a sprinkle of sugar for extra sweetness. A fast and easy way to enjoy homemade cookies.
Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

Marshmallow Fruit Salad

This fruit salad combines fresh fruit with marshmallows for a light and sweet dessert that’s quick to prepare. Perfect for potlucks or as an easy addition to any meal, it’s both refreshing and enjoyable. The balance of creamy and fruity textures makes it a crowd-pleaser. Ready in just minutes, it’s a great option for last-minute gatherings. A simple and versatile way to end your meal with something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Salad

S'mores Dip

This s’mores dip brings all the flavors of the classic campfire treat into a quick and easy dessert. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy snack. The melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows pair perfectly with graham crackers for dipping. Great for movie nights or casual get-togethers, it’s a dessert that everyone will enjoy. A fast and fun way to bring s’mores indoors.
Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie

A large chocolate chip cookie with a piece broken off, next to a glass of milk and a bowl of chocolate chips on a white surface. — Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This single-serve cookie offers the comfort of a chocolate chip cookie with a lighter twist, ready in minutes. Perfect for those moments when you want a sweet treat without a full batch. Its soft texture and rich chocolate chips make it a timeless favorite. Great for enjoying on its own or with a glass of milk. A quick and easy way to enjoy something homemade and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie

Cheesecake in a Jar

Two jars of layered cheesecake with a graham cracker base, cream cheese filling, and a topping of dark red cherries, on a cloth with spoons beside them. — Cheesecake in a Jar. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This jarred cheesecake is a creamy dessert that’s quick to assemble and perfect for individual servings. Ideal for entertaining or enjoying solo, it’s ready in no time. The combination of rich filling and crumbly crust makes it feel special without requiring much effort. Great for serving as a make-ahead treat for parties or family dinners. A simple and elegant dessert option that’s as practical as it is enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Cheesecake in a Jar

Hot Chocolate Mug Cake

A spoon lifting a bite of chocolate mug cake topped with melted marshmallows from a white mug. — Hot Chocolate Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mug cake combines the comforting flavors of hot chocolate into a quick, single-serving dessert. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or a sweet treat after dinner. The warm, soft cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or marshmallows. Great for enjoying on chilly nights or whenever you want something quick and chocolatey. A fast way to enjoy the essence of hot chocolate in cake form.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Mug Cake