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    Home / Roundups

    36 Downscaled Dessert Recipes Without Leftover Temptation

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Nov 24, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When I’m craving something sweet but don’t want a whole tray of treats tempting me, downscaled desserts are a lifesaver. They’re perfect for when I want to enjoy a quick, homemade dessert without worrying about extra servings. These downscaled recipes make it easy to have just enough to satisfy the craving with no leftovers, no fuss.

    A spoon with blueberry cobbler with rest of cobbler in background.
    Easy Blueberry Cobbler. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    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 single-serving red velvet mug cake is a quick way to enjoy a cozy dessert without committing to a full batch. It’s the perfect solution when you want a sweet treat but don’t need leftovers tempting you the next day. In just a few minutes, you can whip up this warm and satisfying cake, with a classic red velvet flavor and hint of chocolate. Ideal for quiet nights in or when you just need a little something sweet.
    Get the Recipe: Red Velvet 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 give you all the gooey goodness of a campfire s’more in just minutes and without the mess. Perfect for satisfying a craving without overdoing it, this recipe makes the ideal single-serving treat. It’s a great way to bring a taste of summer indoors, any time of year. No need for extra leftovers—just a simple, warm s’more in minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S'mores

    Mini Pavlova Nests

    Mini pavlova nests with whipped cream and berries.
    Mini Pavlova Nests. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These mini pavlova nests are light, crisp, and the perfect small dessert when you want a bit of sweetness without extras. With a delicate, airy texture and slight chewiness, they’re a great way to enjoy a classic dessert on a smaller scale. Dress each pavlova with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a sophisticated treat. An excellent option for when you’re entertaining yourself or a small group.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pavlova Nests

    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 perfect when you’re craving cake but don’t want to bake an entire one. Using just a few spoonfuls of cake mix, it’s ready in minutes and delivers a warm, fluffy bite-sized dessert. It’s a great way to enjoy cake without the leftover temptation of a full-sized pan. A quick fix for any cake craving, right from your microwave.
    Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Mug Cake

    Single-Serving Peach Cobbler

    Peach cobbler with ice cream and peaches.
    Single-Serving Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This single-serving peach cobbler is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a cozy dessert without extra portions. Made with juicy peaches and a soft, cake-like topping, it’s a warm, homey treat for one. Perfect when you’re craving a cobbler but want a smaller portion, it’s ready in no time. Ideal for solo movie nights or winding down at the end of the day.
    Get the Recipe: Single-Serving Peach Cobbler

    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 has all the comforting flavors of a traditional crisp but without the large portions. Fresh apple slices, warm spices, and a crunchy topping make it a satisfying treat that’s just the right size. Great for anyone who loves a warm, homemade dessert without lingering leftovers. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a quick evening treat.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    Strawberry Pound Cake Mini Loaf

    Slices of strawberry pound cake on a white plate, with visible chunks of strawberry and a golden-brown crust.
    Strawberry Pound Cake Mini Loaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This mini loaf version of strawberry pound cake is just right for a small treat that’s big on flavor. Each loaf is packed with fresh strawberries and has a tender crumb, making it a delightful way to enjoy dessert without overdoing it. The mini size makes it easy to enjoy in one or two sittings, leaving no need for refrigeration. Perfect for those looking for a small but satisfying slice of cake.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pound Cake Mini Loaf

    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.

    Rich and fudgy, this Nutella mug cake is a quick way to indulge without the temptation of leftovers. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s a warm, chocolatey treat in minutes, ideal for any chocolate lover. The mug-size portion keeps it small but flavorful, offering just enough to satisfy your dessert craving. Great for evenings when you want a quick and cozy treat.
    Get the Recipe: Nutella Mug Cake

    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.

    These chocolate puff pastries are a great way to enjoy a flaky, chocolate-filled treat without a lot of fuss. With a crisp, buttery pastry shell and a melted chocolate center, they offer a quick dessert that’s small yet satisfying. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for when you want a little something sweet without extra portions. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a stand-alone dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Puff Pastry

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

    A peanut butter mug cake topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate sauce, viewed from above.
    Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This chocolate peanut butter mug cake is the perfect quick fix for chocolate lovers, combining rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter in a single-serving portion. It’s easy to whip up, satisfying a sweet craving without a big batch to worry about. Perfect for evenings when you just want a warm, indulgent treat without leftovers. Ready in minutes, this dessert is as convenient as it is delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.
    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Filipino banana turon lumpia is a simple yet unique treat, combining sweet bananas with caramelized sugar in a crispy wrapper. These single pieces are easy to prepare and allow you to enjoy the flavors of Filipino cuisine without a large batch. The crispy, sweet bite is just enough to satisfy without overindulging. Perfect for quick snack-sized desserts.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    Single-Serve Apple Pie

    Mini apple pie on cutting board.
    Single-Serve Apple Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This single-serve apple pie brings you all the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie in a perfectly portioned dish. With tender apple slices and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a great way to enjoy pie without baking a whole one. Ready in just minutes, it’s the ideal solo dessert for cozy nights. A simple, classic option that’s quick, easy, and satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Single-Serve Apple Pie

    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.

    This s’mores dip is a fun, crowd-free way to enjoy the campfire favorite without any fuss. The gooey chocolate and marshmallow mixture is perfect for dipping and just enough for a small snack. Easy to make and share with one or two people, it’s a treat without tempting extras. A great way to capture the essence of s’mores, anytime.
    Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

    Apple Pie Cookies

    Close-up of baked apple pie cookies with a fruit topping, cooling on a black wire rack. A pink kitchen towel and a white mug are partially visible in the background.
    Apple Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Apple pie cookies offer the flavors of classic apple pie in a portable, cookie-sized treat, making them perfect for a little dessert without leftovers. With a buttery crust and spiced apple filling, each bite is just right when you want a quick dessert. They’re ideal for portion control while still capturing that classic pie flavor. A great dessert option for anytime snacking.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cookies

    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 offer the comfort of freshly baked cookies without leaving a large tray full. Made with just enough dough for a few cookies, they’re a perfect way to satisfy a craving without leftovers. Enjoy them warm from the oven in just minutes. Great for a quick, homemade dessert that’s simple and satisfying.
    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 small-batch oatmeal chocolate chip cookies provide a wholesome twist with the perfect balance of oats and chocolate. With just a few cookies in the batch, they’re ideal when you want a fresh cookie experience without excess. Easy to make and just as easy to enjoy warm, these cookies are a comforting treat for a quiet afternoon. Perfect for enjoying a little home-baked flavor without extras.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip 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 the coziness of hot cocoa to cake form in a perfect single serving. Great for chilly nights or anytime you want something warm and chocolatey without the leftovers. It’s easy to whip up, with a rich, moist texture that’s just enough to satisfy. An easy treat that’s ready in minutes and perfect for a little dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Mug Cake

    Souffle Cheesecake

    A ramekin of creamy, smooth cheesecake with a spoon resting beside it, taking out a scoop on a white background.
    Souffle Cheesecake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This light and fluffy souffle cheesecake is a single-serving version of the classic dessert, ideal when you want just enough to enjoy. With a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s easy to make and perfect for small-scale dessert cravings. No need for a full cheesecake when you can have this simple yet satisfying bite. A great choice for cheesecake fans who want a quick and easy treat.
    Get the Recipe: Souffle Cheesecake

    Air Fryer Pineapples

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

    These air fryer pineapples are a quick and easy way to enjoy caramelized fruit without the hassle. Each piece is warm, soft, and slightly crispy, making it a small, satisfying treat without needing to make a big batch. Perfect for when you want something fruity with a bit of sweetness. Enjoy on their own or with a scoop of ice cream for a mini dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pineapples

    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 offer rich, fudgy chocolate flavor in perfect little portions, great for enjoying without making a whole pan. Quick to bake and easy to pop into your mouth, they’re an ideal option for a sweet snack that’s just the right size. No need for slicing or leftovers; each bite is a self-contained dessert. Perfect for those moments when you want just a taste of something chocolatey.
    Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

    Apple Mug Cake

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

    This apple mug cake brings together warm spices and tender apple pieces in a single-serving treat that’s quick to prepare. Perfect for a cozy dessert without a large pan, this mug cake captures the essence of apple pie in a quick, easy way. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for when you want a taste of fall flavors without leftovers. A comforting, homemade option for quiet nights.
    Get the Recipe: Apple 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.

    Air fryer apple fritters provide a lighter version of a classic treat, made in smaller portions for a just-right snack. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re a quick way to enjoy the flavors of a bakery fritter at home. Perfect for when you want something sweet without an entire batch, and they’re ready in no time. Great for a warm, easy-to-make dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

    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 make a simple yet satisfying dessert that captures the comforting flavors of baked apples in just minutes. Each serving is perfectly portioned, avoiding the temptation of leftovers while delivering a warm, spiced bite. Easy to make and enjoy as a quick snack or after-dinner treat. Ideal for fall or anytime you’re craving a bit of sweetness.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

    Chocolate Crème Brûlée

    Three cups of chocolate pudding with whipped cream and raspberries.
    Chocolate Crème Brûlée. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This single-serve chocolate crème brûlée offers a creamy, rich dessert with a layer of caramelized sugar on top. Perfect for chocolate lovers, it’s a great way to enjoy a decadent treat without having to make a full batch. Easy to prepare and elegant enough for special occasions, it’s a quick, enjoyable dessert that satisfies without leftovers. Ideal for a solo dessert night.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Crème Brûlée

    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 fun, individual-sized dessert that combines creamy cheesecake filling with a graham cracker crust, all in one compact jar. Perfect for those who love cheesecake but don’t want to make a full cake, it’s a convenient option with just enough sweetness. Each jar serves as a self-contained treat, making it great for portion control. Ideal for when you want cheesecake flavor in a small package.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesecake in a Jar

    Filipino Leche Flan

    Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon.
    Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This Filipino leche flan offers a rich, caramel-topped dessert that’s just the right size for one. Its smooth, creamy texture makes it a satisfying choice without needing to make a large flan, making it ideal for solo indulgence. Each portion is perfectly sized, giving you the sweetness you want without extra portions. A classic option that’s easy to make and enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

    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 single-serving cookie dough is a safe-to-eat version for those who love raw dough, perfect for a small treat without leftovers. Easy to whip up, it’s a quick way to satisfy a sweet craving without a full batch of cookies. With no baking required, it’s a convenient dessert that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for cookie dough fans who want a little taste without the extras.
    Get the Recipe: Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough

    Mini Vegan Cheesecake

    A hand holds a mini cheesecake topped with two blueberries, with more cheesecakes and berries on a plate in the background.
    Mini Vegan Cheesecake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This mini vegan cheesecake delivers creamy, rich flavor in a compact portion that’s just enough for a small dessert. Perfect for those looking for a plant-based treat without making a full cheesecake, it’s easy to make and enjoy on its own. With a smooth texture and slight tang, it’s a great option for a satisfying dessert without the need for extra servings. Ideal for evenings when you want a little sweetness.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Vegan Cheesecake

    Brown Sugar Cookies

    A stack of crisp brown sugar cookies on a plate with one cookie broken in half, accompanied by a glass of milk and a striped napkin.
    Brown Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These small-batch brown sugar cookies bring a warm, caramel-like flavor in perfectly sized portions, making them a great choice when you don’t want extra cookies lying around. Quick to mix and bake, they’re a straightforward dessert with just the right amount of sweetness. Each cookie is soft and chewy, great for a cozy snack without the temptation of leftovers. Perfect for any brown sugar fan looking for a little treat.
    Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Cookies

    Easy Blueberry Cobbler

    A spoon with blueberry cobbler with rest of cobbler in background.
    Easy Blueberry Cobbler. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This easy blueberry cobbler offers all the fruity flavor of a traditional cobbler in a smaller, more manageable serving. With sweet blueberries and a golden topping, it’s a simple dessert that satisfies without leaving extras behind. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy dessert on a quiet night. A straightforward option when you’re craving cobbler without the full-size pan.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Blueberry Cobbler

    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 brings the classic flavors of a cinnamon roll to a quick, single-serving dessert. It’s a warm, gooey treat that’s easy to make, without the need for baking a whole pan of rolls. Perfect for those who want a cozy dessert without leftovers, this mug treat is ready in minutes. Ideal for cinnamon lovers looking for a convenient dessert fix.
    Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

    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 small, simple dessert that combines buttery puff pastry with a sweet, creamy filling. It’s perfect for when you want a classic bakery treat without the need for a full tray. Each bite is soft and flaky, giving you just the right amount of sweetness. A great option for a quick dessert or a quiet morning treat with coffee.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

    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.

    This chocolate chip mug cake is a quick and easy dessert for when you’re craving something warm and sweet but don’t want to make a full cake. Packed with gooey chocolate chips, it’s a simple, satisfying treat that’s perfectly portioned. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s ideal for evenings when you want dessert without leftovers. Great for anyone who loves chocolate chip flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

    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 light, fluffy dessert that’s the perfect size for one. With crushed cookies folded into a creamy base, it’s easy to make and offers just enough to satisfy a sweet craving. Perfect for a small dessert without leftovers, this mousse is both fun and flavorful. Ideal for an easy, no-bake treat.
    Get the Recipe: Cookies and Cream Mousse

    Small-Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    A person spreads white frosting on a freshly baked cinnamon roll in a tray with others nearby.
    Small-Batch Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These small-batch cinnamon rolls bring the warm, gooey goodness of fresh cinnamon rolls without the need for a large batch. They’re perfect for when you want just enough rolls to enjoy without extras tempting you later. Each roll is soft, sweet, and ready to eat in no time. A quick solution for cinnamon roll fans who want a treat in smaller portions.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    Coconut Panna Cotta

    A slice of white, creamy panna cotta topped with a fresh strawberry slice on a white plate, with a textured napkin beside it.
    Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This coconut panna cotta is a creamy, single-serving dessert that’s perfect for a tropical twist on traditional panna cotta. With a smooth, rich texture, it’s a small treat that satisfies without needing a full batch. Perfect for evenings when you want a light, chilled dessert with a hint of coconut. An easy way to enjoy panna cotta flavor without leftovers.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

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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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    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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