Quick Desserts for Weeknights

Life can get hectic, but that doesn't mean you have to skip dessert! Here are five delicious and simple dessert recipes that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for busy individuals, these treats will satisfy your sweet tooth without taking too much time in the kitchen.

5 minute chocolate mug cake

1. Five Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons (50g) granulated sugar

2 tablespoons (15g) cocoa powder

1/8 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons (45ml) milk

2 tablespoons (30g) vegetable oil

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: chocolate chips or nuts

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

If desired, add chocolate chips or nuts.

Microwave on high for about 1 minute. Let it cool slightly before digging in!

2. No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar

1 cup (90g) graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips

2 tablespoons (30g) butter

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs until combined.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined 8x8-inch (20x20cm) baking dish.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together. Stir until smooth.

Pour the chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Yogurt and berry parfait

3. Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Ingredients:

2 cups (480ml) yogurt (any flavor)

2 cups (300g) mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1 cup (100g) granola

Instructions:

In a glass or bowl, layer yogurt, a handful of mixed berries, and granola.

Repeat the layers until you reach the top.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for a quick snack later.

4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, washed and dried

8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Optional: toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles

Instructions:

Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle toppings over the chocolate before it hardens.

Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

No bake peanut butter chocolate cookies

5. No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (120ml) milk

1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup (60g) butter

1 1/2 cups (135g) rolled oats

1/2 cup (125g) peanut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and butter. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat right away.

Stir in oats, peanut butter, and vanilla until well combined.

Drop rounded spoonfuls onto wax paper and let cool until set, about 30 minutes.

Pear slices drizzled with honey

6. Fruit and Cheese Plate

Ingredients:

1 cup (150g) assorted fresh fruits (grapes, apple or pear slices, berries)

4 oz (115g) cheese (brie, cheddar, or cream cheese)

Optional: honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling

Optional: nuts like Marcona almonds or candied pecans

Instructions:

Arrange the fresh fruits on a serving platter.

Add sliced cheese next to the fruit.

Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze if desired, and sprinkle with nuts for extra texture.

With these quick and easy dessert recipes, you can indulge your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you crave a rich mug cake, refreshing parfaits, or a delightful fruit and cheese plate, there’s something here for everyone. Enjoy treating yourself and making life a little sweeter!

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