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    Home / Roundups

    28 Desserts So Quick, You’ll Think You Missed a Step

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 4, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When you're craving something sweet but don’t have time to spare, these quick desserts are exactly what you need. They come together in no time and are perfect for those moments when you're in the mood for a treat but don’t want to deal with a long prep. Whether it's for a last-minute snack or a surprise dessert, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to satisfy your sweet tooth.

    A spoon lifting a bite from a chocolate chip mug cake inside a white mug.
    Chocolate Chip Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    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 cookies and cream mousse is a rich, creamy dessert that comes together in just minutes. The smooth mousse texture pairs perfectly with crunchy bits of cookies for a delightful contrast. It’s a simple treat that will leave you wondering how something so quick can taste so good. Whether you're serving it to guests or enjoying it solo, this dessert delivers without the fuss. It’s the perfect finish to any meal or a sweet snack when you need a quick pick-me-up.
    Get the Recipe: Cookies and Cream Mousse

    Air Fryer Pineapples

    Sliced pinieapples sprinkled with cinnamon on a plate.
    Air Fryer Pineapples. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air fryer pineapples are a quick and easy dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. With just a few minutes in the air fryer, you can enjoy caramelized pineapples with a soft, warm texture. It’s a simple dessert that adds a touch of tropical flair to your day. Perfect for a light and satisfying treat without all the hassle. Whether as a snack or part of a larger spread, it’s a dessert you’ll be making on repeat.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pineapples

    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 is a game-changer for anyone craving a warm, rich dessert in a flash. You can make it in just a few minutes, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The result is a moist, fudgy cake that’s perfect for those moments when you want something sweet but don’t have the time to bake. It's the ideal dessert when you're short on time but don't want to miss out on a treat. Simply pop it in the microwave and enjoy it in minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Best Chocolate Mug Cake

    Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

    A spoon lifting a bite from a chocolate chip mug cake in a white mug.
    Chocolate Chip Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A chocolate chip mug cake that’s quick, easy, and satisfies your sweet tooth without any hassle. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a warm and gooey dessert in under five minutes. It’s a fun and fast way to enjoy the comfort of a homemade cake when you need it most. The chocolate chips melt perfectly, giving you bites of sweetness in every spoonful. This mug cake will quickly become your go-to treat when time is tight.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

    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 carrot cake in a mug is a quick and cozy treat, perfect for those moments when you want dessert without the wait. It’s packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and carrots, and it’s ready to eat in no time. The single-serving size means you can enjoy a slice of cake without making a whole batch. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up and enjoy a homemade dessert in just minutes. It's a comfort dessert that will have you coming back for more.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake in a Mug

    S’mores Dip

    A hand holding a graham cracker dipped in s'mores dip with more crackers and dip in the background.
    S’mores Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    S'mores dip is a fast and fun way to enjoy the flavors of a classic campfire treat without leaving the house. The gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate come together in a single dish, making it a quick dessert to serve at any time. Perfect for dipping graham crackers or fruit, it’s easy to make and always a hit. This dessert is all about simplicity and sweetness, and it’s ready in just minutes. It's an effortless way to bring everyone together for a sweet moment.
    Get the Recipe: S’mores Dip

    Eggless Peanut Butter Cookies

    A person dipping a peanut butter cookie into a glass of milk, with more stacked cookies on a plate in the background.
    Eggless Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These eggless peanut butter cookies are easy to make and full of flavor. They’re soft, chewy, and don’t require any special ingredients or long prep times. In just a few steps, you’ll have cookies ready to enjoy, perfect for when you're craving something sweet. They’re the ideal solution for a quick snack or dessert that feels homemade. With their rich peanut butter flavor, they’re a treat that everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Eggless Peanut Butter 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 the perfect quick dessert when you’re craving something chocolatey. They bake in no time, delivering rich, fudgy brownies in bite-sized form. They’re an easy, low-effort treat that’s great for sharing or snacking. You can have them fresh and warm in minutes, making them perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without much work. These brownie bites are a simple and enjoyable way to get your chocolate fix.
    Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

    3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake

    3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake.Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.
    3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    With just three ingredients, this Oreo mousse cake is incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing. It’s the perfect dessert when you want something that looks impressive but doesn’t take much effort. The combination of mousse and Oreos creates a rich, creamy texture that everyone will love. This cake comes together quickly and is great for last-minute guests or a sweet treat after dinner. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple dessert can taste so good.
    Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse Cake

    Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough

    Edible chocolate chip cookie dough in white bowl with spoon.
    Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This edible cookie dough is perfect when you want to taste cookies without baking them. It’s made to be eaten as-is, and the single-serving size makes it easy to satisfy your craving without any leftovers. With a smooth, doughy texture and plenty of chocolate chips, it’s a quick and satisfying treat. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up, and it’s ready to enjoy in no time. Whether you’re sneaking a bite for yourself or sharing with a friend, it’s the perfect fix for cookie cravings.
    Get the Recipe: Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough

    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 chocolate chip cookies are the ideal solution when you want just a few fresh cookies without the extra work. You can whip up this batch in no time and enjoy soft, gooey cookies right from the oven. They’re perfect when you’re craving a sweet treat but don’t want to make a whole batch. With every bite packed with chocolate chips, you’ll love how easy they are to make. A few minutes of prep and baking is all it takes for the perfect cookie experience.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

    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 oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are quick to prepare and the perfect snack for when you don’t want a whole batch. The hearty oats pair perfectly with the chocolate chips for a comforting and delicious treat. In just a short time, you’ll have fresh cookies ready to enjoy without the extra effort. These cookies are great for sharing or when you need a quick pick-me-up. They’re a simple, easy dessert that always hits the spot.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    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 chocolate puff pastry is an effortlessly quick dessert that tastes like it took much longer to make. The flaky pastry and rich chocolate filling make a perfect pair, and it’s ready in a flash. It’s an easy dessert to impress guests with or enjoy as a quick treat on your own. With minimal ingredients and time, you can enjoy a sophisticated dessert without the fuss. This pastry will soon become your go-to dessert when you're short on time but want something indulgent.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Puff Pastry

    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 red, white, and blue salad is a fun, quick dessert that celebrates the colors of summer. It combines fresh berries with a creamy dressing, creating a sweet treat that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a patriotic gathering or just when you want a simple yet festive dessert, it comes together quickly and looks beautiful on any table. You can whip it up in minutes and enjoy the bright flavors without much fuss. It’s the perfect combination of fresh and creamy that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

    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 fast and rich dessert that satisfies your chocolate cravings in minutes. Just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time give you a warm, fudgy treat that’s perfect for one. It’s a great option when you want something sweet without the hassle of making a full dessert. With Nutella’s smooth chocolatey flavor, this mug cake will quickly become a favorite. You won’t believe how easy it is to get a dessert this good in just a few minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Nutella 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.

    Air fryer s’mores are an easy way to enjoy a classic treat in no time. The marshmallows melt perfectly in the air fryer, creating a warm, gooey filling, while the graham crackers give the perfect crunch. This dessert comes together quickly and is perfect for those who want a simple, comforting treat. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these air fryer s’mores in no time. It’s a fun twist on the classic and a perfect way to satisfy a sweet craving.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S’mores

    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 red velvet mug cake is the perfect dessert for when you’re craving something indulgent but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s ready in minutes, delivering a moist, rich cake that’s perfect for one. The red velvet flavor and smooth cream cheese frosting make it feel like a special treat. It’s quick, easy, and perfect when you need a single-serving dessert. This mug cake will become your go-to when you're looking for a fast, comforting treat.
    Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Mug Cake

    Apple Mug Cake

    Apple mug cakes in ramekins with cinnamon sticks.
    Apple Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This apple mug cake brings the flavors of fall into a quick, single-serving dessert. With warm cinnamon and soft apples, it’s a cozy treat that’s ready in just a few minutes. You can enjoy the sweetness of baked apples without the long wait. It’s a simple and satisfying dessert that feels homemade but doesn’t take much effort. If you’re craving something warm and comforting, this apple mug cake is the perfect choice.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Mug Cake

    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 healthier single-serve chocolate chip cookie is the perfect solution for when you want a quick dessert without feeling like you overdid it. You can enjoy the classic chocolate chip flavor without all the extra work, and it’s ready in just a few minutes. The perfect portion size means you won’t have to worry about leftovers, just one warm cookie to enjoy. It’s simple to make and hits all the right notes when you’re craving a treat. A single cookie is all you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.
    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.

    Cheesecake in a jar is a quick, easy, and portable dessert that’s sure to impress. It’s layered with smooth cream cheese filling and a crunchy crust, creating a perfect balance of textures. The individual jars make serving easy, and it’s a dessert that comes together fast without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a quick treat at home, this dessert is simple to prepare and always a hit. The jarred portion makes it a fun and unique way to enjoy cheesecake.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesecake in a Jar

    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 air fryer apple fritters are a quick and easy dessert that brings the taste of fall to your kitchen in minutes. The apples stay soft and sweet, and the fritters cook perfectly in the air fryer without the mess. They’re great for a simple snack or dessert when you want something warm and comforting. With minimal effort, you’ll have fresh, golden fritters ready to enjoy. It’s a quick and easy way to satisfy your dessert cravings without any fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

    Cake Mix Mug Cake

    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.

    This cake mix mug cake is the perfect shortcut for when you want a warm dessert in minutes. Simply mix the cake mix with a few ingredients, pop it in the microwave, and you have a moist, fluffy cake in no time. It's an easy way to enjoy a sweet treat without the extra effort. The simplicity and speed make this the go-to dessert when you want something quick and satisfying. It's a fast and easy way to enjoy cake without all the work.
    Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Mug Cake

    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 cinnamon roll in a mug is a sweet, warm treat that’s ready in just a few minutes. The dough cooks up soft and the cinnamon filling gives it a deliciously comforting flavor. It’s a quick way to enjoy a classic breakfast dessert without the wait. The best part is how simple it is to make, and it only takes a few ingredients. Perfect for when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Chocolate oatmeal no-bake cookies on a white plate.
    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These chocolate oatmeal no-bake cookies are a fast, easy treat that comes together without turning on the oven. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a batch of cookies ready to enjoy in no time. The oats and chocolate are a perfect combination, and they come together quickly. These no-bake cookies are the perfect snack or dessert for those times when you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. They’re a simple, no-fuss treat everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    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 small-batch sugar cookies are the perfect solution when you need a quick treat without the leftovers. They come together in no time, with just a few basic ingredients, making them a great choice for a fast dessert fix. The simple sweetness and soft texture make them a crowd-pleaser, and the best part is that they bake up in just minutes. If you're craving something sweet but don’t have the time for a big batch, this recipe is a great option. You'll love how easy and quick it is to whip up a batch.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

    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 hot chocolate mug cake brings all the cozy flavors of your favorite winter drink into a quick, single-serving dessert. It’s perfect when you’re craving something warm and sweet but don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. The cake is moist and rich, with just the right balance of chocolatey goodness. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting treat ready to enjoy. This simple dessert is an easy way to satisfy your chocolate cravings without the wait.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Mug Cake

    Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

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

    These air fryer cinnamon apples are an easy, quick dessert that brings the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples together. They cook up quickly in the air fryer, making them a great choice for a sweet treat in a hurry. The apples come out tender and flavorful, with just a hint of spice from the cinnamon. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for those moments when you want something sweet without spending much time. A quick and comforting dessert that's ready in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

    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 air fryer apple crisp for one is the perfect portion-sized dessert when you’re craving something sweet and warm. With a crispy, buttery topping, and tender cinnamon apples, it’s quick to make and even quicker to enjoy. You can have this comforting dessert ready in minutes, making it a great option for a single-serving treat. The air fryer speeds up the process, so you don’t have to wait long for that delicious crispy topping. It’s the perfect treat when you want a simple, fast dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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