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    Home / Roundups

    31 Easy Easter Desserts That Are Way Better Than Store-Bought

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Apr 13, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I always want Easter dessert to feel special without turning into a project. These easy options check the box for homemade without making a mess of your weekend. If you’re over store-bought sweets that fall flat, these are the ones worth making.

    A plate with yellow and pink marshmallow chicks in nests, surrounded by colorful speckled eggs and blue straw.
    Easter Peep Cupcakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

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    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 is a practical way to enjoy a soft, fruity dessert without a lot of prep. The strawberry flavor makes it feel right for spring, and the smaller size is perfect for sharing or gifting. It comes together quickly and travels well if you’re heading to an Easter brunch. It’s a clear upgrade from store-bought cake and doesn’t take much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pound Cake Mini Loaf

    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.

    Brownie bites are quick to make and ideal when you want something sweet that doesn’t need frosting or fancy decorating. They’re bite-sized but rich, making them easy to serve to a crowd or tuck into an Easter spread. You won’t find this kind of fresh, chewy texture in the packaged versions. It’s a smart option for anyone looking to keep dessert simple but still homemade.
    Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

    Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

    Lemon ricotta cookies on rack with icing bowl.
    Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies are soft with a subtle lemon flavor that works well for spring. They don’t take long to make and don’t require much cleanup either. The texture and flavor make them a solid step up from the boxed cookie aisle. They’re a dependable choice for anyone hosting or contributing to Easter dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

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

    This no-bake recipe is a great option when you’re short on time but still want something homemade. The mix of chocolate and oats gives you a treat that feels nostalgic and filling. They’re a smart alternative to store cookies, especially when you're trying to keep the oven free. It’s one of those easy wins for Easter prep.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    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 chilled dessert is simple to make and can be done ahead, which helps when Easter is already packed with cooking. The coconut flavor works well for spring and feels a little different from standard fare. It’s smoother and creamier than anything you’ll find pre-made. If you’re aiming for a no-fuss dessert that feels thoughtful, this is a solid pick.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

    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.

    A small batch of sugar cookies makes sense when you just need a little something sweet without ending up with leftovers for days. They’re easy to decorate with kids or leave plain, depending on how much time you have. They’re softer and fresher than anything you’d pick up from the grocery store bakery. For a low-effort Easter dessert, these check every box.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

    Mini Pavlova Nests

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

    These crisp-yet-chewy meringue nests are a smart way to show a little effort without going overboard. You can top them with fruit or cream to match whatever else you’re serving. They look festive on a dessert table but aren’t hard to pull off. It’s the kind of dessert that feels more thoughtful than anything store-bought.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pavlova Nests

    Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat

    Slices of lemon loaf with icing on a white plate, with whole lemons in the background.
    Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This lemon loaf brings strong spring energy with its simple citrus flavor and soft texture. It takes less time to make than a trip to the bakery and tastes fresher, too. It slices cleanly, which makes it a great option for brunch or dessert. It’s a reliable way to make something from scratch that feels like a treat.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat

    Mini Tiramisu Cups

    Two glasses of tiramisu dessert with layers of mascarpone cheese and coffee-soaked ladyfingers topped with cocoa powder, placed on a white cloth next to a spoon.
    Mini Tiramisu Cups. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cups are layered, creamy, and easy to portion, which helps when you’re serving a group. You can make them ahead and store them in the fridge until it’s time to eat. They’re a lot fresher than anything sitting in a bakery case. They work especially well for Easter when you want a little variety on the dessert table.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Tiramisu Cups

    Mini Pound Cake

    Mini pound cake loaf on square plate sliced with berries.
    Mini Pound Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Mini pound cakes bake fast, store well, and don’t need much dressing up. The texture stays soft without getting dense, even after a day or two. Making them at home gives you better flavor and texture than prepackaged versions. These are a strong fit when you want a reliable, homemade dessert with zero stress.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pound Cake

    Filipino Leche Flan

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

    This rich, creamy flan sets up beautifully in the fridge and can be made a day ahead. It’s smooth and sweet without being heavy, which makes it a solid choice for Easter dessert. The texture and flavor are far better than anything in a plastic container. It’s a low-effort way to bring something homemade that still feels a little special.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

    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.

    When you want just enough dessert for one or two people, this microwave version of carrot cake is perfect. It’s quick, warm, and ready in minutes, which makes it a practical Easter option. You won’t get this kind of fresh-out-of-the-oven taste from anything boxed. It’s especially useful if you’re short on time or oven space.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake In A Mug

    Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies

    A stack of chocolate chip cookies on a white plate, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside.
    Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies are soft with a slightly nutty flavor from the coconut flour. They come together quickly and don’t require any unusual steps. Compared to anything you’d buy off the shelf, these have a fresher texture and way more flavor. They’re a simple homemade option that still fits into a busy Easter prep schedule.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

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

    These sweet banana-filled rolls come out crisp and golden, making them stand out on the dessert table. They’re easy to prep in batches and serve warm or at room temp. Store-bought desserts rarely have this kind of texture or flavor combo. It’s a practical choice if you want something quick but memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    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.

    These jarred cheesecakes are an easy way to serve something individual and portable. They can be made ahead and chilled until serving, which helps cut down on day-of prep. The texture and flavor hold up better than any store-bought version. For a no-stress dessert that still feels a bit thoughtful, this one works well.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesecake in a Jar

    Marshmallow Fruit Salad

    Marshmallow Fruit Salad with Cool Whip.
    Marshmallow Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This chilled salad takes almost no time to put together and works well as a light dessert. The mix of fruit and marshmallows is familiar and easy for guests of all ages. It holds up better than anything from the deli section. If you need something quick and crowd-friendly, this is a go-to option.
    Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Salad

    Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

    A glass bowl filled with a creamy fruit salad, featuring colorful fruits and marshmallows, placed on a blue cloth.
    Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This cold, creamy fruit salad is sweet, rich, and different enough to stand out at the table. It’s an easy make-ahead dessert that can feed a group. You won’t find this kind of flavor balance in anything prepackaged. It’s a good way to keep dessert simple without skipping the homemade part.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

    White Chocolate Oreo Easter Bark

    Easter chocolate bark on a white plate with colorful easter eggs.
    White Chocolate Oreo Easter Bark. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

    This bark is crunchy, sweet, and comes together fast with minimal cleanup. You can break it into pieces and serve it on a platter or tuck it into gift bags. It looks festive but takes way less time than baking something from scratch. Compared to store-bought candy, it’s fresher and easier to customize.
    Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Oreo Easter Bark

    Hummingbird Cake

    A slice of layered cake with cream frosting sits on a decorative plate inspired by Southern cakes. The cake is topped with a slice of dried pineapple. A fork rests beside it, while a green floral design adorns the plate, reminiscent of the classic Hummingbird Cake's charm.
    Hummingbird Cake. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

    This cake is soft and moist with fruit and nuts baked right in, which makes it feel like a spring classic. It keeps well and doesn’t need much decorating. The homemade version has way more flavor than anything boxed or frozen. It’s a smart pick when you want something that looks like you put in effort—but didn’t take all day.
    Get the Recipe: Hummingbird Cake

    Chocolate-Dipped Edible Cookie Dough Easter Eggs

    Image shows a cluster of easter egg truffles with one missing a bite and showing the cookie dough inside.
    Chocolate-Dipped Edible Cookie Dough Easter Eggs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

    These no-bake treats are fun to shape and don’t require any oven time. You can dip them ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to serve. They’re creamier and more flavorful than any packaged cookie dough treat. They’re a clever homemade option that still fits into a busy Easter weekend.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate-Dipped Edible Cookie Dough Easter Eggs

    Carrot Cake Roll

    A slice of carrot cake roll with cream chesse filling and fork on the side.
    Carrot Cake Roll. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

    This rolled version of carrot cake has a soft sponge and creamy filling, making it easy to slice and serve. It’s great for making ahead and looks impressive without much effort. The flavor and texture hold up better than anything in a grocery bakery case. It’s a practical dessert that brings something homemade to the Easter table.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Roll

    Homemade Snickers With Dates

    Healthy, homemade snickers bars with chewy chocolate base and topped with an indulgent homemade caramel & crunchy peanuts. Plus, there’s no baking required! #candybar #homemadecandybar #easterdessert #healthydessertrecipes #nobakedesserts
    Homemade Snickers With Dates. Photo credit: Fit as a Mama Bear.

    These no-bake bars are quick to assemble and have all the textures you’d want in a candy-style dessert. The mix of chewy, crunchy, and sweet makes them more interesting than anything store-bought. You can prep them ahead and keep them chilled until serving. It’s a simple way to bring a sweet bite that still feels homemade.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Snickers With Dates

    Easter Peep Cupcakes

    Cupcakes with chick peeps on top in a nest.
    Easter Peep Cupcakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    These cupcakes are festive, colorful, and easy to decorate without any piping skills. They’re a great option when you want something fun for kids or a crowd. The freshness and flavor are better than any box mix with store-bought frosting. These are an easy way to keep Easter dessert lighthearted and personal.
    Get the Recipe: Easter Peep Cupcakes

    Strawberry Poke Cake

    A slice of strawberry poke cake with white frosting and strawberry topping on a white plate.
    Strawberry Poke Cake. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This chilled cake is great for feeding a group and holds up well when made a day ahead. The strawberry flavor comes through in every bite, and the texture stays moist. Store-bought versions just don’t have the same freshness. It’s a low-effort dessert that looks like you spent more time on it than you did.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Poke Cake

    Easter Dessert Cups

    A colorful easter dessert in a cup with eggs and candy.
    Easter Dessert Cups. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

    These layered cups are quick to assemble and perfect for portioning ahead of time. They hold up well in the fridge and don’t need any baking. You won’t get this kind of fresh flavor and texture from anything pre-packed. It’s a smart pick when you need a dessert that’s easy but still feels thoughtful.
    Get the Recipe: Easter Dessert Cups

    Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling

    A strawberry cupcake with pink frosting and a sliced strawberry on top, in a pink wrapper. Two similar cupcakes are in the background.
    Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These cupcakes have a fun surprise inside and a nostalgic strawberry crunch topping. They’re easy to make in batches and keep well at room temp. Store-bought cupcakes don’t have this kind of texture or flavor contrast. They’re a solid option when you want something with personality but not a lot of effort.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling

    Vanilla Loaf Cake

    A sliced loaf of vanilla cake dusted with powdered sugar.
    Vanilla Loaf Cake. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

    This loaf cake is soft, buttery, and stays moist for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert. It slices cleanly and works well with fruit or coffee. Compared to anything you’d find wrapped in plastic, this one has a fresher taste and texture. It’s an easy way to serve something simple and homemade without spending all day on it.
    Get the Recipe: Vanilla Loaf Cake

    3-Ingredient Banana Pudding

    Slice of banana pudding topped with whipped cream on a white plate.
    3-Ingredient Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    With just a few ingredients, this pudding comes together fast and chills well in the fridge. It’s perfect for a casual Easter meal or a last-minute dessert. The taste is creamier and more balanced than anything boxed. It’s a good backup option when time is short but you still want something homemade.
    Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Banana Pudding

    Easter Candy Charcuterie Board

    An Easter charcuterie board features a delightful variety of snacks, including jelly beans, chocolate pretzels, yogurt pretzels, fresh strawberries, puff pastries, wafer rolls, dried apricots, and chocolate-covered nuts.
    Easter Candy Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

    This board is a fun way to offer variety without any cooking or baking. You can customize it with store-bought sweets and a few homemade pieces. It’s way more personal and creative than just putting out a bag of candy. It’s a practical, hands-off dessert that keeps things festive and easy.
    Get the Recipe: Easter Candy Charcuterie Board

    Carrot Cake Cheesecake

    A slice of carrot cake cheesecake rests on a plate, a fork holding a tempting bite. Another luscious slice awaits in the background.
    Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

    This layered dessert brings two classic flavors together in one slice. It’s rich but not overly heavy and can be made ahead and chilled. The flavor is more balanced than anything pre-made from the store. It’s a great choice when you want one dessert that covers multiple favorites.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cheesecake

    Pigna Italian Easter Cake

    Close up of pigna italian easter cake on a red plaate.
    Pigna Italian Easter Cake. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

    This traditional Easter cake has a soft texture and light sweetness that works well for brunch or dessert. It’s made with familiar pantry ingredients and keeps well for a few days. You won’t find this kind of homemade flavor in anything off the shelf. It’s a nice change from typical Easter desserts but still easy to pull together.
    Get the Recipe: Pigna Italian Easter Cake

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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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