• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Bit Recipes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    17 Small-Batch Desserts That Are Perfect for Two

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

    Pinterest Hidden Image

    Sometimes, you just need a little something sweet without making a full batch. Whether it's a cozy night in or a quick treat after dinner, small-batch desserts are the perfect way to enjoy something homemade without leftovers piling up. These easy-to-make recipes give you just enough to share, so you can enjoy every bite fresh without any waste.

    A bowl of creamy fruit salad with fresh strawberries and blueberries. A gold spoon and a small bowl of blueberries are on the side, along with a red and white checkered napkin.Pin
    Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    S'mores Dip

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

    This quick dip gives you all the flavors of classic s'mores without needing a campfire. Made in minutes, it's an easy way to enjoy a gooey, chocolatey treat without making a full batch. Perfect for a cozy night in, it's just the right size when you don't want too much leftover. Serve it warm with graham crackers for a simple dessert that feels special. Great when you're craving something sweet but don't want a big hassle.
    Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

    Apple Mug Cake

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

    This single-serving apple cake comes together fast, giving you a warm, spiced dessert without a ton of effort. It's perfect for when you want something homemade but don't want to deal with baking a full cake. The soft texture and cozy flavors make it a great pick for fall or anytime you're in the mood for something comforting. Quick to prepare and ready in minutes, it's ideal when you don't need extra portions sitting around. A simple way to enjoy a little treat without overcomplicating things.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Mug Cake

    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.Pin
    Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A fresh and simple mix of fruit that brings a little color to your table without much effort. The natural sweetness makes it feel like dessert, but it's light enough to enjoy anytime. This small portion is great when you don't want to make a giant fruit salad but still want something refreshing. Quick to toss together and easy to customize, it's a hassle-free option when you're short on time. A great way to end a meal without anything too heavy.
    Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

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

    These cookies come together fast, making them a great choice when you want a homemade treat without waiting for the oven. The combination of chocolate and oats gives them a rich texture that feels just right in a small batch. Perfect when you don't need a huge pile of cookies tempting you later. With a short prep time and no baking required, they're an easy way to enjoy something sweet without much effort. Great for a quick dessert that doesn't leave you with too many leftovers.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Air Fryer S'mores

    A s'more with melted marshmallow and chocolate between graham crackers on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer S'mores. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This quick air fryer version gives you the same melty marshmallow and chocolate combination without the hassle of an open flame. Perfect for when you want just one or two without making a mess in the kitchen. Ready in minutes, it's a simple way to enjoy a familiar favorite without extra steps. Great when you don't need to make a whole tray but still want a warm, chocolatey snack. An easy fix for when a s'mores craving hits.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S'mores

    Mini Pecan Pies

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

    These small pies pack all the classic flavors into a more manageable portion. Great when you want the rich, nutty taste without baking a full pie. They're easy to put together and bake up quickly, making them perfect for when you're short on time. Just the right size for a simple dessert without worrying about leftovers. A great option when you want something homemade but don't need a whole pie sitting around.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pecan Pies

    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.Pin
    Cinnamon Roll in a Mug. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This quick mug version gives you the flavor of a cinnamon roll without waiting for dough to rise. It's soft, sweet, and just the right amount when you don't need a full pan of rolls. Ready in minutes, it's perfect when you want something warm and comforting without extra work. A simple way to enjoy a homemade treat without leftovers getting in the way. Great when you need a quick dessert without much hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

    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.Pin
    Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This smooth, creamy dessert feels special without requiring much effort. With a small portion, it's a great way to enjoy something sweet without making a big batch. Perfect when you want a simple yet elegant treat without extra leftovers. It sets up in the fridge, making it an easy option to prepare ahead. A light dessert that's just the right size when you don't want anything too heavy.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

    Nutella Mug Cake

    Homemade chocolate mug cake topped with whipped cream, served with a spoon and a small nutella jar on the side.Pin
    Nutella Mug Cake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This single-serving cake is rich, chocolatey, and ready in minutes. Perfect when you're craving something sweet but don't want to bake an entire cake. With simple ingredients and a quick cook time, it's an easy way to enjoy a homemade treat without extra effort. Great for when you want something warm and soft without dealing with leftovers. A simple solution for a quick dessert without the hassle of baking.
    Get the Recipe: Nutella Mug Cake

    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.Pin
    Cream Cheese Danish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This small-batch danish gives you the familiar mix of flaky pastry and creamy filling without making a whole tray. Perfect when you want a bakery-style treat without extra portions going to waste. With a simple prep process and a short bake time, it's a great way to enjoy a homemade pastry without too much effort. Just the right size when you need something sweet but don't want leftovers sitting around. A warm, flaky option that's easy to make whenever you're in the mood.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

    Soufflé Cheesecake

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

    This light and airy cheesecake is just the right size when you don't want a full cake sitting around. With its smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor, it feels fancy without being complicated. A great option when you want something soft and creamy without the extra work of a traditional cheesecake. Small enough to enjoy without worrying about leftovers, but still big enough to share. A simple way to enjoy a classic dessert without too much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Soufflé Cheesecake

    Mini Pavlova Nests

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

    These small pavlovas give you a crisp shell with a soft center in just the right portion. Great when you want a light, sweet dessert without baking a full batch. They're easy to top with fresh fruit or whipped cream, making them a simple but elegant option. Perfect for when you need something small but still want a special treat. A great way to enjoy a homemade dessert without extra servings left over.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pavlova Nests

    Mini Pound Cake

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

    This small version of a classic pound cake gives you the same rich texture without needing a full loaf. Perfect when you want a homemade cake but don't need a big batch. It bakes up quickly and keeps things simple, making it great for when you're short on time. Just enough to share or enjoy on your own without too much leftover. A great choice when you want something homemade without the extra hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pound 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.Pin
    Carrot Cake in a Mug. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This quick mug cake brings all the warm spices and soft texture of carrot cake in a single serving. Great when you're craving something homemade but don't want to bake a full cake. It's ready in minutes, making it an easy way to enjoy a sweet treat without much effort. Just enough to enjoy without dealing with leftovers. A simple way to get the flavors you love without a big commitment.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake in a Mug

    Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

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

    These warm cinnamon apples come together fast, making them a great way to enjoy a quick dessert. Perfect when you want something sweet without baking a full pie. The soft texture and cozy flavors make them a great option for fall or any time you want a warm treat. With just the right portion, you won't have extra servings sitting around. A simple way to enjoy a comforting dessert with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

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

    This mug cake gives you the classic mix of chocolate and peanut butter in a single-serving portion. Perfect when you want something warm and soft without baking a full cake. Ready in minutes, it's an easy option when you're craving something sweet but don't want leftovers. The combination of flavors makes it feel like a treat without being too complicated. A quick and simple way to enjoy a homemade dessert without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

    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.Pin
    Apple Puff Pastry Tart. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This small tart gives you the flavor of apple pie without the time commitment of making a full one. With flaky pastry and a soft, spiced apple filling, it's a great choice when you want something warm and sweet. The small portion makes it easy to enjoy without having extra slices sitting around. Quick to put together and bake, it's perfect for when you need a simple dessert. A great way to enjoy homemade flavors without extra hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Puff Pastry Tart

    FacebookXPinterestFlipboard

    More Roundups

    • A hand scooping a creamy dip with melted cheese and green onions, served with bread in a cast-iron skillet.
      30 Crowd-Pleasing Eats Perfect for Any Game Night
    • A spoon lifting a bite from a chocolate chip mug cake inside a white mug.
      20 Chocolate Treats That Melt Hearts and Taste Buds
    • Baked apple in air fryer filled with oats and dried fruit on a white plate, next to a red-checkered cloth and cinnamon sticks.
      18 Quick Sweet Treats Made Just for One
    • A skillet with sweet potato casserole and pecans.
      25 Must Try Side Dishes for the Holiday Featuring Family Favorites

    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.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    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.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Stories

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2026. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.