Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats with these 20 decadent Ina Garten dessert recipes that are simply irresistible! Known for her classic elegance and warm hospitality, Barefoot Contessa (aka Ina Garten) has been delighting home cooks with her signature style and mouth-watering creations. From moist cakes and tartes to creamy cheesecakes and crumbles, these indulgent desserts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or just a comforting treat to brighten up a chilly evening, Ina’s got you covered with her tried-and-true recipes that never fail to impress.
Barefoot Contessa Chocolate Cake
Barefoot Contessa Chocolate Cake Recipe
A classic chocolate cake that’s sure to please, this moist and decadent dessert is perfect for any occasion.
- 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (250ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth tops.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time:
35-40 minutes
Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
A classic dessert that combines the sweetness of shortbread with the zesty brightness of lemon, these bars are perfect for springtime gatherings or anytime a burst of citrus flavor is needed.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large bowl.
5. Pour filling over warm crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until filling is set and edges are lightly caramelized.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peach and Blueberry Crumble
This delicious crumble combines the juicy sweetness of peaches with the tartness of blueberries, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed peaches (fresh or frozen), sliced
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches, blueberries, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Raspberry Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy raspberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery crust and a creamy filling packed with fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
5. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until well combined.
6. Stir in raspberries and cornstarch.
7. Pour filling over crust.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
9. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Sticky Toffee Pudding
This classic British dessert is a sweet and indulgent treat that combines moist sponge cake with a rich toffee sauce and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. With this simple recipe, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add dates and milk; stir until combined.
3. Beat in egg and melted butter.
4. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While cake is still warm, drizzle with toffee sauce (recipe below). Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Toffee Sauce:
– 1 cup (200g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Apple Crostata with Vanilla Ice Cream
Savor the flavors of autumn with this classic Italian dessert, featuring tender apples, flaky pastry, and creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Vanilla ice cream (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place apple mixture in the center, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold pastry over apples, pressing edges to seal. Use egg wash to brush top of pastry.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt
Elevate your classic chocolate chip cookie game with a touch of sea salt! This recipe combines the richness of dark chocolate chips with the subtle crunch of flaky sea salt for a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips and sea salt.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Get ready to cozy up with a moist and flavorful pumpkin bread, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
Banana Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Start your day with a delicious and moist coffee cake infused with the sweetness of bananas and tanginess of sour cream!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tips: Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pear and Almond Tart
This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a delicious and elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced into thin wedges
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle almonds and sugar over pears. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with a little water and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcakes
Moist and flavorful, these cupcakes are a classic treat that’s sure to impress. With their deep red color and subtle cocoa flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
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 until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Carrot Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic carrot cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a moist and flavorful package. The addition of maple syrup gives it a subtle hint of warmth and depth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Maple Cream Cheese Frosting ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, carrots, and walnuts (if using). Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and maple syrup, mixing until combined.
Blueberry Muffins with Crumb Topping
Start your day with a delicious and flavorful breakfast treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These moist blueberry muffins topped with a crunchy crumb topping are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Crumb Topping (see below)
Crumb Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and blueberries; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. To make crumb topping, combine flour and sugar in a small bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle crumb topping over muffins.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Ganache Tart
Experience the decadence of a velvety smooth chocolate ganache filling in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, pressing it into the corners and edges.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the pastry crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Allow the tart to cool completely before spreading with melted chocolate ganache (made by heating 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly).
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Pound Cake
This classic pound cake gets a burst of sunshine with the addition of bright lemon zest and juice, creating a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon zest and juice.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb. Add granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt; mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the fruit mixture with the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Peach Raspberry Galette
This peach raspberry galette is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, showcasing the best of summer’s bounty. With a flaky crust and a fruit-filled center, this rustic dessert is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large peaches, sliced
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange peach slices in a concentric circle pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle raspberries over peaches and drizzle with honey.
6. Fold crust edges up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over crust.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brownie Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent brownie pudding, topped with a creamy vanilla sauce. Perfect for any occasion or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
For the brownie pudding:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the vanilla sauce:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder.
3. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. For the vanilla sauce, combine heavy cream, softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve warm brownie pudding with chilled vanilla sauce.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Macaroons Dipped in Chocolate
These chewy coconut macaroons are dipped in rich chocolate, creating a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and vinegar until frothy.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
8. Dip the cooled macaroons into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
9. Place dipped macaroons on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 macaroons
Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Walnuts
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a healthy snack on-the-go. The combination of tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, cored)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cored apples, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until apples are evenly coated.
3. Place the apple mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins.
4. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the apples.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until apples are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
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Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent dessert recipes from Ina Garten. From classic chocolate cake to innovative tart and crumble creations, these irresistible treats are sure to satisfy any craving. Try Barefoot Contessa’s Chocolate Cake, Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust, or Peach and Blueberry Crumble for a taste of perfection. With flavors ranging from fruity to nutty, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 indulgent desserts.
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