Indulge in the sweet life with these 18 decadent dessert recipes, perfectly portioned for two. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a romantic treat, these intimate desserts are sure to impress. From rich and creamy chocolate mousse to indulgent strawberry shortcake, we’ve got you covered.
In this collection of recipes, you’ll find an array of decadent delights that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Miniature masterpieces like individual tiramisu jars and peanut butter mug cakes are perfect for a cozy night in, while larger-than-life desserts like two-layer red velvet cupcakes and caramel apple hand pies make for impressive showstoppers.
From classic treats like banana split sundaes to innovative creations like pumpkin spice bread pudding, these recipes offer something for everyone. So go ahead, get decadent, and treat your loved one (or yourself!) to a little indulgence.
Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. With their gooey centers and velvety chocolate exterior, you’ll be the star of any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (50g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons high-quality dark chocolate chips or chunks (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and flour.
3. In a separate bowl, melt butter and sugar in the microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Add chocolate chips or chunks to the melted butter mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between two (6-ounce) ramekins or small cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Strawberry Cheesecakes
These bite-sized cheesecakes are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a graham cracker crust, creamy strawberry filling, and a hint of sweetness, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon strawberry jam
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of mini muffin tin cups.
4. Bake crust for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
6. Spoon cheesecake mixture over baked crusts.
7. Top with sliced strawberries and drizzle with strawberry jam.
8. Bake for an additional 12-15 minutes or until cheesecakes are set.
Cooking Time: 17-22 minutes
Two-Layer Red Velvet Cupcakes
Elevate your dessert game with these moist and flavorful two-layer red velvet cupcakes, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until combined. Add red food coloring and mix well.
4. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Hand Pies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these tender pastry pockets filled with caramelized apples and gooey caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon a small amount of caramel sauce onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with a few pieces of cooked apple and a sprinkle of granulated sugar.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press the edges together to seal.
7. Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pie.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without committing to a full batch of cookies. With just the right amount of chocolate chips, these soft and chewy cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent Raspberry Chocolate Mousse, perfect for special occasions or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Fold the dry mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir in the raspberry jam and chopped raspberries.
5. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until smooth.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including whipping and folding)
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Individual Tiramisu Jars
These individual tiramisu jars are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for serving at parties or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 12-14 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the brewed coffee and sugar until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side (do not soak).
3. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and whipped heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
4. To assemble the jars, place a ladyfinger in the bottom of each jar. Top with a layer of the mascarpone mixture, followed by another ladyfinger.
5. Repeat step 4 two more times, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Dust the top with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 12-14 individual servings
Peanut Butter Mug Cakes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and indulgent peanut butter mug cakes, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. Made in just minutes, these individual treats are easy to whip up and enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing the mug
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine peanut butter, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add milk, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mug. Mix until smooth.
3. Grease the rim of the mug with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool for 30 seconds before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Parfaits
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries to create a unique and delicious dessert. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up, these parfaits are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the granola and a pinch of salt.
2. Spoon a layer of lemon curd into the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with a layer of blueberries.
4. Add a dollop of vanilla yogurt.
5. Drizzle with honey.
6. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mini Peach Cobblers
Sweeten up your gatherings with these bite-sized treats that pack a big flavor punch! Mini peach cobblers are the perfect snack or dessert for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), cut into small squares
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg to the peach mixture; stir until combined.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peach mixture onto each pie crust square.
5. Fold squares into triangles or shapes to form mini cobblers.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cobbler.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée for Two
This rich dessert combines the creamy sweetness of crème brûlée with the warm, caramelized flavor of vanilla bean. Perfect for a special occasion or romantic evening, this recipe serves two and is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks. Let cool slightly.
4. Add vanilla bean and stir to combine.
5. Pour mixture into 2 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin.
11. Caramelize sugar by using a kitchen torch to carefully burn the sugar in a circular motion.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes + chilling time
Banana Split Sundae Bowls
Transform the classic banana split into adorable sundae bowls that are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat any time of day. These colorful bowls are easy to make and customizable to your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Whipped cream and maraschino cherries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. Scoop ice cream into bowls.
3. Add a few banana pieces on top of the ice cream.
4. Spoon mixed berries over the bananas.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop and drizzle over the berries.
6. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the chocolate.
7. Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These sundae bowls are ready to serve immediately.
Dark Chocolate Truffles
Create indulgent treats with just a few simple ingredients and a short preparation time. These dark chocolate truffles are perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for coating (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
3. Once the chocolate has melted, remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to firm up.
6. Scoop the truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar, if desired, to coat.
Cooking Time: None required!
Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar
A classic dessert gets a creative twist in this easy-to-make Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar recipe. Layers of sweet strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery shortcake biscuits come together in a jar for the perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 package (6-8 biscuits) shortcake mix
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Fold the sugar mixture into the whipped cream until combined.
4. Cut the shortcake biscuits into 1-inch pieces.
5. Layer the strawberries, shortcake pieces, and whipped cream in a 16-oz mason jar or glass container.
6. Top with melted butter and seal the jar.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembly recipe!
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar!
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
This autumn-inspired dessert combines the comforting warmth of bread pudding with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice. Perfect for a chilly fall evening, this recipe serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes to the mixture and stir until well coated.
4. Pour in melted butter and mix until bread is evenly moistened.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cherry Almond Clafoutis
This sweet treat combines the tartness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, all wrapped up in a crispy, caramelized crust. Perfect for a warm weather dessert or as a special occasion treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Add cherries, almonds, and salt; stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, and melted butter.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour into a 9-inch (23cm) baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Tartlets
Sweet and tangy, these bite-sized tartlets are the perfect combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 package (12-15) frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. Place each piece onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each tartlet.
4. In a small bowl, melt white chocolate chips and butter in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
5. Spoon a small amount of melted white chocolate into the center of each pastry piece. Top with a few fresh raspberries.
6. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Brush with a little heavy cream and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Espresso Affogato for Two
Experience the perfect balance of bold espresso and creamy vanilla ice cream with this easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 pint of high-quality vanilla ice cream
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong espresso and pour into cups.
2. Scoop one half-pint of vanilla ice cream into each cup, placing it on top of the espresso.
3. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar over the ice cream.
4. Garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of rich espresso and creamy ice cream.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemble just before serving)
Summary
Indulge in these 18 decadent desserts recipes, perfect for sharing with someone special or savoring all to yourself. From classic treats like chocolate lava cakes and strawberry cheesecakes, to creative twists like caramel apple hand pies and peanut butter mug cakes, there’s something for every sweet tooth. These small-batch desserts are ideal for a romantic evening in or a cozy night with friends.
