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    Home / Roundups

    17 Downsized Desserts Will Make You Forget How Cold It Is

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 1, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing better than a warm, sweet treat to cozy up with. These downsized desserts are perfect for when you want something comforting without overdoing it. Quick to make and just the right size, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings and make any cold day feel a little bit warmer.

    A slice of carrot cake with white frosting is on a plate. A whisk and another slice on a separate plate are in the background.
    Mini Gingerbread Loaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    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 mug cake is a perfect choice when you want a quick and cozy treat. Ready in minutes, it combines chocolate and cake in a way that’ll warm you right up. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s just the right size for one. With minimal prep and a rich flavor, it's a great way to enjoy a comforting dessert without much fuss. Perfect for when you're craving something sweet but don't want to make a whole batch.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip 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 is perfect for when you need a sweet bite of warmth without the hassle. The soft, cinnamon-spiced cake pairs perfectly with tender chunks of apple. It’s easy to make and just the right size for one person. Whether it's an afternoon snack or a late-night craving, this simple treat will make you feel cozy and content. The apple flavor will remind you of fall no matter the weather.
    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.

    If you love apple fritters but want something quick, these air fryer versions are a game changer. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, giving you that perfect balance. Plus, the air fryer makes them quick and easy without the need for deep frying. These fritters offer a comforting treat without all the fuss, so you can enjoy them whenever the craving strikes. A simple way to enjoy a warm, fruity dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

    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 rich, gooey, and perfect when you want a little chocolate fix. It’s quick and easy to prepare, and the Nutella gives it that indulgent, creamy texture. Ready in under five minutes, this treat is perfect for when you’re craving something sweet without the wait. The chocolatey goodness will make it hard to stop at just one bite. It’s the perfect little dessert to cozy up with.
    Get the Recipe: Nutella Mug Cake

    Mini Gingerbread Loaf

    Two slices of gingerbread loaf with cream cheese frosting rest on a white plate. A whole cake is in the background, with a whisk nearby on a cloth.
    Mini Gingerbread Loaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A mini gingerbread loaf is just the thing when you’re in the mood for something warm and spiced. This little loaf is packed with cozy flavors like cinnamon and ginger, making it perfect for a quick dessert. It’s easy to bake, and the mini size means you won’t be left with leftovers. A great option for those days when you need a small, comforting treat to brighten your day. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with a cup of tea.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Gingerbread Loaf

    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 ideal when you need a small but festive dessert. The rich flavor and vibrant color make it feel like a special treat, and it’s ready in no time. Made in a mug, it’s the perfect size for a solo dessert without any leftovers. Its light texture and sweet taste make it an easy way to enjoy a classic cake without the commitment. A perfect dessert for when you need a quick pick-me-up.
    Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Mug Cake

    Baked Apple in Air Fryer

    Baked apple on a white plate filled with oats, nuts, and cranberries, with cinnamon sprinkled around. A red checkered cloth is partially visible on the side.
    Baked Apple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert, this baked apple recipe is quick and easy to make in the air fryer. The tender, caramelized apples are seasoned just right, offering a cozy flavor that’s hard to resist. This dessert is small-batch, meaning you get just enough without having leftovers. It's a great option when you want something sweet and warm without a long wait. Enjoy it solo or with a scoop of ice cream for a treat.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Apple in Air Fryer

    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 the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavor of s’mores without the campfire. It’s quick to make and full of gooey chocolate and marshmallows, making it a comforting treat. You can dip graham crackers or fruit into it for a fun, easy dessert. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s simple but offers all the flavors you love. It’s an easy way to bring the warmth and sweetness of s’mores to your kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

    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 a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of baked apples in less time. The apples soften and caramelize with cinnamon, offering a warm and cozy treat. They’re easy to make and the perfect single-serving dessert for when you’re craving something sweet. The air fryer speeds up the process, so you’ll have a warm dessert in minutes. A great way to enjoy apple dessert without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

    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 are perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon, and the best part is that you don’t need to make a huge batch. They bake up quickly, making them perfect for when you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. Ideal for a family breakfast or a personal dessert, they bring the warmth of homemade cinnamon rolls without the hassle. You’ll love the fresh-baked taste in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    Single-Serve Apple Pie

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

    This single-serve apple pie is perfect when you’re craving the comforting taste of apple pie but don’t want to bake a whole one. It’s made in a personal-sized portion, so you get all the sweetness and warmth of the classic dessert. The apples are tender, and the crust is flaky, making it an easy treat to enjoy. It’s perfect for a quick dessert or when you just need a little comfort food. A classic treat made simple for one person.
    Get the Recipe: Single-Serve Apple Pie

    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.

    If you're craving a warm, fruit-filled dessert, this air fryer apple crisp is perfect for when you want just enough to satisfy. The apples are baked with a simple crisp topping that’s lightly sweet and crunchy. It’s easy to make in the air fryer, so you don’t have to heat up the oven. The single-serving size means no leftovers, just a warm, satisfying dessert. A great way to enjoy a comforting treat without much prep.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    Gluten-Free Keto Pecan Pie Bars

    A piece of pecan bar on a white plate, with a fork resting on the side. The bar has a nutty topping and a crumbly base, partially eaten. Two forks are in the background.
    Gluten-Free Keto Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These pecan pie bars are the perfect solution when you want a rich, nutty treat in a small size. The easy-to-make bars have a satisfying crunch from the pecans, and the filling is sweet and warm. They’re the perfect size for one or two servings, so you can enjoy the flavors of pecan pie without baking a whole pie. Quick and simple, these bars are a great alternative when you’re craving something sweet and comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Keto Pecan Pie Bars

    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 simple way to enjoy the flavors of a fresh cinnamon roll without the time commitment. It’s soft, warm, and just sweet enough, with the perfect balance of cinnamon and sugar. You can enjoy this comforting treat in minutes, making it a great choice for when you want a quick dessert. Perfect for a solo snack or a cozy breakfast, it’s small but packed with flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

    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 combines the rich flavor of hot cocoa with the texture of a warm cake, perfect for chilly days. It’s easy to make in just minutes, and the warm chocolate flavor will leave you feeling cozy. With minimal prep, this single-serving cake is a great option for when you just need a little something sweet. The simple ingredients create a decadent treat that feels special without much work. Perfect for warming up on a cold day.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Mug Cake

    Mini Pecan Pies

    Two pecan pie tarts placed on a striped cloth with scattered pecans around them.
    Mini Pecan Pies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These mini pecan pies are just the right size for a comforting dessert without a lot of leftovers. The crunchy pecans and sweet filling make for a delicious treat that feels indulgent but is perfectly portioned. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven in no time, making them a great choice for when you need a quick and simple dessert. Their small size makes them perfect for one person or a small gathering.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pecan Pies

    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 flaky, rich treat that’s simple to prepare. The chocolate filling inside the golden, crisp pastry is a comforting dessert that’s ready in no time. The puff pastry adds a satisfying crunch, and the chocolate melts just right. Perfect for when you want something small and indulgent without the hassle of a full dessert. Great for a solo snack or a cozy treat.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Puff Pastry

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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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