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    Home / Roundups

    29 Homemade Treats That Don’t Leave You with a Mountain of Leftovers

    By Lisa MarcAurele · May 6, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I love baking, but I don’t always want trays of extras sitting around for days. These small-batch treats are just the right size when you want something homemade without overdoing it. They’re quick, easy, and perfect when you’re only feeding yourself or a couple of people.

    A scoop of vanilla ice cream beside a spoonful of warm peach cobbler in a white dish.
    Single-Serving Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    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 is the kind of dessert you can whip up without worrying about too much left over. It’s perfect when you want something sweet but don’t want to commit to a whole cake. The small size makes cleanup faster and portions more reasonable for a regular night in. It’s a smart option for those evenings when you just want a simple dessert for one or two.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Vegan Cheesecake

    Chocolate Crème Brûlée

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

    Chocolate crème brûlée feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to pull off in a small batch. It’s a good way to make something rich without making too much. This is the kind of dessert that feels like a treat without leaving you with days of leftovers. It works well when you're looking for something personal-sized and doable on a weeknight.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Crème Brûlée

    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 are great when you’re craving pie but don’t want to bake a whole one. This small batch version means you’ll get the cozy flavors without the hassle or waste. These are a smart option if you want a quick dessert that still feels like a treat. They’re also easy to store or share without ending up with too much.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cookies

    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 copycat recipe brings that bakery-style flavor to your kitchen in a size that’s actually manageable. It’s a good pick when you just want a few slices without a week of leftovers. You’ll still get that soft texture and citrusy flavor, but with less fuss. It works well when you want something homemade that won’t take over your countertop.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat

    Filipino Leche Flan

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

    Filipino leche flan is rich and smooth, and this version keeps things small so you don’t overdo it. It’s a great way to enjoy a familiar dessert without filling up the fridge. The recipe is simple enough to make on a weeknight and portioned for just a couple of servings. It’s a nice choice when you want something a little special without extra steps.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

    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 delivers all the flavor of a bakery treat in a size that’s easy to manage. You’ll get a crisp edge, soft center, and just enough filling without overbaking or storing extras. It’s a great choice when you want something warm and homemade without a big batch. Perfect for mornings when you want something better than store-bought but quick.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

    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 topped with whatever fruit you have on hand. They’re easy to scale down and don’t leave you with more than you need. Perfect when you're after something airy and sweet without extra cleanup. They're also a great fit for a simple dessert night that won’t carry into the next week.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pavlova Nests

    Single-Serve Apple Pie

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

    This single-serve apple pie gives you all the cozy flavor of a homemade pie in a size that won’t linger in the fridge. It’s a smart way to enjoy dessert without making too much or turning it into a big project. The portion is just right for a quick after-dinner treat. It’s ideal for those times when you want something warm and sweet without leftovers.
    Get the Recipe: Single-Serve Apple Pie

    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 is ready in minutes and keeps portions in check without sacrificing texture. It’s great when you want something warm and baked without making a whole batch. It also skips the hassle of multiple pans or cleanup. Perfect for when you need a no-fuss dessert that won’t leave you tempted with extras.
    Get the Recipe: Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie

    Easy Blueberry Cobbler

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

    This blueberry cobbler is easy to make and sized for two, so it won’t take up space or time. It’s a good option when you want something fruity and baked but not overdone. The recipe keeps things simple and cuts down on prep and cleanup. You’ll get a comforting dessert that feels homemade without extra work or portions.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Blueberry Cobbler

    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 brown sugar cookies have crisp edges and a soft middle, and the small batch keeps things under control. You won’t end up with a counter full of leftovers, which makes them easier to work into your week. They come together quickly and bake fast, which is helpful when time’s tight. This is a good go-to when you want fresh cookies without a full tray.
    Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Cookies

    Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

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

    These lemon ricotta cookies are soft, bright, and easy to portion in smaller amounts. You’ll get the flavor you want without ending up with dozens to store. They work well for a low-effort treat that still feels fresh and homemade. This is a smart way to bake without letting things spiral into a bigger cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

    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 hits all the right notes for a warm dessert without the extras. It’s perfect when you just need a little something after dinner. You won’t have to deal with leftovers or extra dishes. It works great for nights when you want comfort food without a full bake.
    Get the Recipe: Single-Serving Peach Cobbler

    Coconut Flour Banana Bread

    A hand holding a partially eaten slice of banana bread.
    Coconut Flour Banana Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This banana bread makes a smaller loaf that’s just right for a few slices and nothing more. It’s great when you don’t want to waste ingredients or deal with half a loaf getting stale. The texture is soft and holds up well for a couple of days. It’s a good fit for a simple bake that doesn’t take over the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Flour Banana Bread

    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 chewy and easy to make in small amounts. You’ll get that familiar flavor without a dozen extras to manage. They bake fast and keep the prep simple, which makes them practical for a weeknight. It’s a good option when you want to keep things under control but still enjoy something homemade.
    Get the Recipe: Eggless Peanut Butter 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.

    This small-batch sugar cookie recipe gives you just enough to enjoy without feeling like you need to share with the whole block. The dough comes together quickly and the cookies bake fast. They’re a nice fit for when you want something sweet without going overboard. Great for nights when you’re baking for one or two.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

    Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins

    A person holds a partially eaten, golden-brown muffin, showcasing its fluffy and moist texture.
    Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These air fryer muffins have that sweet cream cheese swirl and cookie flavor without needing to fill a whole tray. You’ll only make what you can actually use, which helps avoid waste. They cook fast in the air fryer and work for breakfast or dessert. Perfect for when you want something homemade but don’t want a pile of leftovers.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins

    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 right call when you want something warm and fresh without overbaking. The batch is easy to mix and doesn’t make more than you’ll eat in a day or two. It’s a reliable option when you’re craving a classic without overdoing it. Ideal for when you just want a few without temptation hanging around.
    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 cookies bring the best of both oatmeal and chocolate in a portion that makes sense. The recipe makes just enough to enjoy without overfilling your counter. You’ll keep prep and cleanup simple while still getting something homemade. They’re a solid pick for when you want something sweet but don’t need to stockpile it.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    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 cinnamon rolls are soft, gooey, and made in a size that won’t leave a full pan on the counter. They’re quick enough for a casual weekend morning and easy to store if you have one or two left. The portion keeps things manageable and makes baking feel less like a chore. It’s a smart way to bring something warm to the table without going overboard.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    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 has a nice crumb and plenty of berry flavor, without taking over your fridge. It’s a good size for a couple of people and doesn’t come with the hassle of slicing and storing a full-size cake. You’ll still get a homemade feel, but without the leftovers. This is a great way to enjoy a treat without overcommitting.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pound Cake Mini Loaf

    Mini Pound Cake

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

    This mini pound cake gives you that dense, buttery texture in a size that actually makes sense. You’ll avoid tossing leftovers or scrambling to freeze extra slices. It’s simple to make and bakes quickly. It works well when you want something easy and shareable without going too far.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pound Cake

    Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

    Two oatmeal cookies on a white plate, with a crumbly texture and visible oats, displayed on a light-colored tablecloth.
    Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These oatmeal cookies check all the boxes for a sweet snack without going overboard. The small batch keeps things under control, and they still come out soft with a bit of chew. They’re quick to bake and won’t take up your whole evening. Great for when you want something sweet and small-scale.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

    Soufflé Cheesecake

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

    This soufflé cheesecake is light and fluffy with a small-batch setup that won’t leave you stuck with a full cake. It’s a nice change from denser desserts and doesn’t overwhelm with leftovers. It bakes up with a smooth texture and makes just enough. It’s perfect for when you want something different without the extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Soufflé Cheesecake

    Apple Puff Pastry Tart

    A dessert plate with apple slices, a pastry drizzled with icing, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with syrup. A checkered cloth is nearby.
    Apple Puff Pastry Tart. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This apple tart uses puff pastry to keep things simple and easy to portion. You won’t be left cutting up slices for days, and the flavor holds up without needing extras. It’s a quick bake and makes sense for a low-effort dessert. Good for when you want something that feels put-together but doesn’t take over your evening.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Puff Pastry Tart

    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 in a size that’s easy to manage. You’ll get just enough to enjoy without making a full pan. They’re perfect for weeknights or when you only need a little treat. This recipe keeps things under control and doesn’t demand a lot of cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

    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 give you that familiar flavor in a single-serve size that won’t leave leftovers hanging around. They’re simple enough to make on a casual evening and feel a little more special than a full pie. You’ll get a buttery crust and sweet filling without extra steps. It’s a good choice when you want something seasonal and easy to manage.
    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-filled puff pastry treats come together fast and don’t make more than you’ll use. The flaky texture pairs with the sweet center in a way that feels worth the effort. Since they’re portioned small, you won’t end up with extra. They’re great for when you want a bit of dessert without overdoing it.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Puff Pastry

    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 single-serving apple crisp is the kind of quick treat that doesn’t take much effort or cleanup. The portion is just enough to hit the spot without making extra. It’s perfect for a cozy dessert after dinner that doesn’t need planning. You’ll get warm fruit and a crunchy topping without committing to a big batch.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    More Roundups

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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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