20 Easy 5 Ingredient Recipes Dessert Sweet

Got a sweet tooth but short on time? You’re in luck! These 20 easy 5-ingredient dessert recipes are here to save the day—no fuss, no stress, just pure indulgence. From gooey cookies to creamy no-bake treats, each one is quick, simple, and guaranteed to satisfy. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into these effortlessly delicious desserts!

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

These decadent bars are the ultimate fuss-free treat—just mix, press, and chill for a dessert that tastes like a peanut butter cup in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the base: In a large bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, melted butter, and powdered sugar until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
2. Press into pan: Line an 8×8″ baking dish with parchment paper. Firmly press the peanut butter mixture into the pan in an even layer.
3. Make the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–1.5 minutes total). Pour over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
4. Chill & serve: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (if using), then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Slice into bars.

The magic here? The creamy peanut butter layer stays soft even when chilled, contrasting perfectly with the crisp chocolate shell.

Tip: For clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.

3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream

This dreamy, no-churn ice cream is so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with an ice cream maker.

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe bananas (frozen and sliced)
• 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)

Instructions:

1. Slice the bananas into coins and freeze on a parchment-lined tray for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until solid.
2. Add the frozen banana slices to a food processor and blend on high, scraping down the sides as needed, until smooth and creamy (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Add 2 tbsp peanut butter and 1 tbsp honey, then pulse just until swirled—don’t overmix if you want ribbons.
4. Serve immediately for soft-serve texture, or transfer to a loaf pan and freeze for 1–2 hours for scoopable consistency.

The magic here? Blending frozen bananas creates a lusciously creamy base without dairy—just sweet, fruity goodness with a nutty twist.

Tip: For a chocolatey version, add 1 tbsp cocoa powder with the peanut butter.

5-Ingredient Lemon Cheesecake

This creamy, tangy cheesecake is a breeze to make—no water bath or fancy techniques required, just pure citrusy bliss.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prep the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moist. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and chill for 10 minutes.
2. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar with a hand mixer until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and mix just until combined.
3. Assemble: Pour filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.

The magic here? The bright lemon cuts through the richness without overpowering it—perfect for when you crave dessert without the fuss. Tip: For extra zing, top with a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

Easy Chocolate Mug Cake

Craving something sweet but don’t want to fuss with a full batch? This fluffy, fudgy mug cake comes together in minutes—no oven required!

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a 12-oz microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until no lumps remain.
2. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined (a few small lumps are okay). Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
3. Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds (start with 60 and check—cake should be moist but not wet on top). Let cool for 1 minute before digging in.

The magic? A crisp edges with a molten center—like a mini brownie and cake had the perfect baby. Top with ice cream for instant dessert glory.

Tip: For extra flair, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted peanut butter while warm.

Simple Strawberry Shortcake

Nothing says summer like a classic strawberry shortcake—tender biscuits, juicy berries, and billowy whipped cream come together in this effortless crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for berries)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for cream)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep berries: Toss sliced strawberries with 2 tbsp granulated sugar; let sit 20 minutes until juicy.
2. Make biscuits: Preheat oven to 425°F. Whisk together 2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in milk just until dough forms. Drop 6 mounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.
3. Whip cream: Beat heavy cream, 1 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla to medium peaks.
4. Assemble: Split warm biscuits, layer with berries and their juices, then dollop with whipped cream.

The magic here? Those slightly sweet, craggy biscuits soak up the strawberry syrup without getting soggy—perfect texture every time.

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle biscuit tops with turbinado sugar before baking.

Quick Oreo Truffles

These no-bake Oreo truffles are a dreamy, three-ingredient dessert that comes together in minutes—perfect for satisfying late-night cravings or impressing last-minute guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14.3 oz) package Oreo cookies (regular, not Double Stuf)
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or melting wafers)

Instructions:

1. Crush the Oreos: Pulse the entire package of Oreos (creme filling included) in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
2. Mix with cream cheese: In a large bowl, combine all the Oreo crumbs with the softened cream cheese. Stir until fully blended—it’ll look like a thick, sticky dough.
3. Shape the truffles: Roll tablespoon-sized portions into 1-inch balls (about 28–30 total) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt the chocolate: Microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1½ minutes total).
5. Coat and chill: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate using a fork, tapping off excess. Return to the baking sheet and let set at room temperature (or refrigerate for 10 minutes to speed it up).

The magic here? The truffles taste like a rich, fudgy brownie but require zero oven time—just a quick freeze does the trick!

Tip: For extra flair, sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs or rainbow sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.

5-Ingredient Apple Crisp

This fuss-free apple crisp lets the fruit shine with a buttery, crunchy topping—no fancy ingredients required!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups thinly sliced apples (about 3–4 medium apples, peeled if preferred)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange apples in an even layer in an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Make topping: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup oats, and 1/4 cup flour. Cut in 4 tbsp butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly.
3. Bake: Sprinkle topping over apples. Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

The magic here? The topping crisps up like shortbread while the apples soften just enough to hold their shape—no mushy fruit in sight!

Tip: For extra warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon to the apples before baking (though it’s plenty cozy without!).

No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream

Skip the ice cream maker—this creamy, dreamy vanilla ice cream comes together with just a bowl and a whisk (and a little patience while it freezes).

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and no streaks remain.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until firm.

The magic here? Sweetened condensed milk keeps the ice cream scoopably soft—no icy crystals! Serve with fresh berries or hot fudge for the ultimate treat.

Tip: For extra richness, swap 1 tsp vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste or scrape seeds from 1 vanilla pod.

Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

These peanut butter cookies are irresistibly soft, chewy, and packed with nutty flavor—plus, they come together with just a handful of pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt until smooth.
3. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on the baking sheet, and flatten slightly with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden (centers will stay soft). Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring.

The magic here? No flour needed—just pure peanut butter goodness with that classic crinkled top.

Tip: For extra crunch, roll dough balls in coarse sugar before baking.

Simple Chocolate Fudge

This foolproof chocolate fudge is the kind of treat that disappears from the cookie tin first—rich, velvety, and begging to be shared (or not).

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula until completely melted and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Fold in walnuts if using.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 2 hours until firm.
5. Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang, then cut into 1-inch squares with a warm knife (wipe clean between cuts for neat edges).

The magic here? No candy thermometer needed—just a handful of pantry staples and patience while it sets into that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Tip: For festive flair, press whole walnuts or a sprinkle of flaky salt on top before chilling.

5-Ingredient Raspberry Mousse

This dreamy raspberry mousse is light as air, bursting with berry flavor, and comes together in minutes—no fancy techniques required!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries (thawed if frozen)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree 2 cups raspberries and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds (optional but recommended for ultra-smooth texture).
2. In a large bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with 1 tbsp powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract to stiff peaks, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Gently fold the raspberry puree into the whipped cream until fully combined but still fluffy.
4. Divide into glasses and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours) before serving.

The magic here? The mousse sets without gelatin—just whipped cream and fruit create that perfect spoonable cloud.

Tip: For a boozy twist, fold in 1 tbsp Chambord with the puree!

Quick Coconut Macaroons

These chewy, golden macaroons come together in minutes with just a handful of pantry staples—perfect for when a sweet craving strikes!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded coconut, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 1/4 tsp salt until combined.
3. Gently fold in the egg whites and 1 tsp vanilla extract until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
4. Scoop 2-tbsp portions onto the baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake for 20–22 minutes until the edges are deeply golden.
5. Let cool completely on the sheet—they’ll firm up as they rest.

The magic here? No fussy steps (like tempering egg whites) for a cookie that’s crisp outside, tender inside, and packed with coconut flavor.

Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled macaroons.

No-Bake Cheesecake Bites

These creamy, bite-sized cheesecakes are a dreamy dessert that comes together in minutes—no oven required!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• Fresh berries or chocolate drizzle (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Make the crust: In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 6 tbsp melted butter until combined. Press 1 tbsp of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each cup in a mini muffin tin (or silicone molds). Chill for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Assemble: Spoon or pipe the filling over the chilled crusts. Top with berries or a chocolate drizzle if desired. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

The magic here? The airy whipped cream folded into the filling gives these bites an impossibly light texture—like cheesecake meets mousse!

Tip: For easy removal, run a knife around the edges of the bites or use silicone molds.

Easy Brownie Bites

These rich, fudgy brownie bites are the perfect one-bite treat—ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or just satisfying a chocolate craving in seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Sift in 1/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp baking powder. Stir until just combined (don’t overmix). Fold in chocolate chips if using.
4. Scoop batter into prepared tin, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake for 12–14 minutes until tops are set but still slightly soft.
5. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The magic here? That crispy edge-to-fudgy-center ratio in every bite—no one can resist!

Tip: For extra decadence, drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar while still warm.

Simple Chocolate Mousse

This dreamy chocolate mousse is rich, airy, and comes together with just four ingredients—no fancy techniques required!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, whip the 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until combined, then fold in the remaining cream until no streaks remain.
4. Divide into 4 serving glasses and chill for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) until set.

The magic here? Folding melted chocolate into whipped cream creates a luxuriously silky texture without eggs or gelatin. Serve with berries for a showstopping yet effortless dessert.

Tip: For extra decadence, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.

5-Ingredient Pumpkin Pie

This fuss-free pumpkin pie skips the long ingredient list but keeps all the cozy, spiced flavor you crave—perfect for when you need dessert in a hurry.

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges decoratively.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice until completely smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for 35–40 minutes more, until the center jiggles slightly but the edges are set.
5. Cool completely on a wire rack (about 2 hours) before slicing. The filling firms up as it cools!

The magic here? Sweetened condensed milk adds richness without needing extra sugar or cream—just one less step between you and a slice of pie.

Tip: For a crack-free top, avoid overbaking; the pie will continue to set as it cools.

Quick Rice Krispie Treats

Quick Rice Krispie Treats

These classic Rice Krispie Treats come together in minutes, with that perfect balance of crispy, chewy, and buttery sweetness we all love.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the 10 oz bag of mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
3. Immediately fold in 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
4. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch pan using a spatula or wax paper. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

The secret? A touch of salt and vanilla to balance the sweetness, making these treats irresistible.

Tip: For extra-gooey results, use fresh marshmallows and avoid over-pressing the mixture.

No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

These rich, chewy bars are a chocolate lover’s dream—no oven required, just a stovetop and a little patience while they set.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter with 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, stirring constantly until smooth (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Fold in 3 cups quick-cooking oats until fully coated, then press half the mixture firmly into the prepared dish.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Pour over the oat layer, spreading evenly.
5. Top with the remaining oat mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Chill for 2 hours until firm, then slice into bars.

The magic here? The peanut butter-chocolate layer stays fudgy, while the oats add just the right chew. Perfect for lunchboxes or midnight cravings!

Tip: For cleaner slices, warm your knife under hot water before cutting.

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These fluffy, golden donuts come together in a flash and are downright irresistible when coated in warm cinnamon sugar—perfect for a lazy weekend treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for coating)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 6-cavity donut pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring just until combined (don’t overmix).
4. Spoon batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity 2/3 full. Bake for 10–12 minutes until springy to the touch.
5. While donuts cool slightly, mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Brush warm donuts with 4 tbsp melted butter, then dip generously in the cinnamon sugar.

The magic here? That crackly cinnamon sugar crust clinging to every nook of these tender, cakey donuts—no frying required!

Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Simple Honey Nut Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are the perfect grab-and-go snack—packed with nutty goodness and just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, stir together the oats, peanut butter, honey, flaxseed, almonds, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
3. Scoop out 1-tbsp portions and roll into balls with your hands. If the mixture sticks, lightly wet your palms.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

The flaxseed adds a subtle earthy note, while the honey keeps these bites chewy without being overly sticky—ideal for tossing in a lunchbox or post-workout snack.

Tip: For a nut-free version, swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and omit the almonds.

Conclusion

With these 20 easy 5-ingredient dessert recipes, satisfying your sweet tooth has never been simpler! Whether you’re craving cookies, cakes, or no-bake treats, there’s something here for every home cook. Give them a try, leave a comment with your favorite, and don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest for others to enjoy. Happy baking!