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17 Dessert Recipes That Won’t Let You Reach for Store-Bought Sweets

Sometimes, the secret to becoming the dessert guru amongst your peers is as simple as having suitable recipes at your fingertips. Waving goodbye to the dessert aisle doesn’t mean waving goodbye to convenience or deliciousness. On the contrary, it’s an open invitation to explore the boundless possibilities that your kitchen holds. Think of it as preparing for a casual yet exciting mission, where the outcome is as rewarding as it is scrumptious. And as you share your homemade masterpieces, the chuckles come easy when someone inevitably asks, “You made this? But it tastes like it’s straight from a fancy bakery!”

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

A white plate with five biscoff cookie butter streusel bars, each drizzled with melted cookie butter.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

With a base that combines a layer of crunchy streusel with the creamy taste of Biscoff cookie butter, Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars are a unique treat. These bars include a topping of crumbled cookies for added texture. Ideal for gatherings, they are easy to prepare and transport. Share these at your next meeting or potluck, and watch them disappear quickly. Bring these for an easy crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Strawberry Upside Down Cake with a slice missing.
Strawberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Strawberry Upside Down Cake turns the traditional upside-down cake on its head with a burst of fresh strawberries. This recipe ensures a moist cake with a caramelized fruit topping. It’s a hit at spring and summer events when strawberries are in their prime. Serving this cake will bring smiles to any gathering. This cake is always welcomed at seasonal parties.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Two brown butter apple blondies were placed on a white surface.
Brown Butter Apple Blondies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brown Butter Apple Blondies offers a twist on the traditional blondie, incorporating brown butter and sweet apples. The result is a rich, moist bar that tastes like autumn. It pairs well with coffee or a tall glass of milk. These are particularly good for after-school snacks or a weekend treat. Experience comfort with each bite of these homestyle blondies.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Rhubarb Bread

A loaf of Rhubarb Bread with a few slices on a white plate.
Rhubarb Bread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Introducing Rhubarb Bread, a moist loaf incorporating the tartness of rhubarb. This bread is surprising with its balance of sweet and sour flavors, enhanced by a touch of cinnamon. It’s excellent when served warm with a bit of butter. It is loved by adults and kids alike and makes it a great addition to any brunch table. Try this during rhubarb season for a fresh take on baked goods.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

A batch of Zucchini cookies with chocolate & pecan on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans combine zucchini’s healthiness with the indulgence of chocolate and pecans. Soft, chewy, and loaded with flavor, these cookies are a clever way to sneak more vegetables into your diet. They’re fantastic for afternoon snacks or to pack in lunchboxes. These cookies seamlessly blend health with flavor. Make these for a nourishing snack that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Mango Curd

A jar of mango curd next to a mango and a mint leaf.
Mango Curd. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mango Curd is a smooth and fruity spread that is versatile. Made from ripe mangoes, the curd perfectly balances sweet and tangy. It works beautifully on toast, as a cake filling, or swirled into yogurt. This is a must-try during mango season to brighten up everyday dishes. Unique and flavorful, it’s a refreshing change from the usual.
Get the Recipe: Mango Curd

Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

A cast iron skillet with strawberry rhubarb cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a wooden surface with a cloth napkin beside it.
Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When rhubarb and strawberries meet in Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble, it’s a classic flavor combination. The tartness of rhubarb perfectly complements the sweet strawberries, topped with a crisp crumble. This dessert is ideal for warm evenings, served with ice cream. It’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy. This crumble recaptures the essence of early summer with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

A slice of maple pecan pie bar topped with chopped pecans sits on a floral-patterned plate.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a simpler, more portable version of traditional pecan pie with rich maple flavor. These bars are packed with pecans and set atop a buttery shortbread crust. They are great for holiday gatherings or as a special treat. Enjoy the deep flavors of maple that enhance the nuts. These bars offer an enjoyable crunch and sweetness, perfect for any pecan lover.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Lemon Loaf

A slice of lemon pound loaf on a plate with daffodils.
Lemon Loaf. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Lemon Loaf boasts a bright, citrusy flavor in a dense, moist bread-like cake. Drizzled with a light lemon glaze, it perfectly balances sweet and tangy. This loaf is a favorite for breakfast or tea time. It’s an excellent companion to a cup of coffee or tea. Bring this loaf to your next coffee meet for a refreshing touch.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf

Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

A white plate with strawberries and mini biscoff cheesecakes.
Mini Biscoff Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Small in size but big on flavor, Mini Biscoff Cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with the beloved Biscoff cookies. Each bite delivers a lush texture with a hint of cookie spice. These mini delights are fantastic for parties, offering just the right-sized portion. They’re also easy to make ahead of time for events. Serve these at any gathering for a memorable dessert.
Get the Recipe: Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

Cookie Dough Milkshake

Cookie Dough Milkshake with a spoon and syrup in the background.
Cookie Dough Milkshake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Whip up a Cookie Dough Milkshake for a real treat, blending real cookie dough bits into a creamy milkshake. This decadent drink is both a dessert and a refreshing beverage. It’s trendy among those who can’t resist raw cookie dough. It is best served chilled and with a topping of whipped cream. It’s a fun and luxurious treat for a warm day.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Dough Milkshake

No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Three pieces of No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars on a black slate plate.
No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

If you’re looking for a simple and refreshing dessert, try No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. These bars require no oven time and feature a creamy cheesecake layer with vibrant blueberry swirls. They’re great for hot days when you want something sweet without the extra heat. Store them in the fridge for a cool treat. These cheesecake bars are a fuss-free dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Buttermilk Banana Cake utilizes ripe bananas and tangy buttermilk to create a wonderfully moist cake. Topped with a light cream cheese frosting, it’s hard to resist. This cake is often the star at birthday parties and family gatherings. It’s beautiful when decorated with a sprinkle of nuts or banana slices. Enjoy this cake as a special treat at your next family celebration.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Cookie Butter Cake Balls on a slate tray.
Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Enjoy a bite-sized wonder with Cookie Butter Cake Balls, where cake meets irresistible cookie butter coating. These little treats are perfect for sharing and can quickly become the highlight of your dessert table. Simple to make, they can be decorated with various toppings like sprinkles or chocolate chips. They are a fantastic choice for children’s parties or as a sweet snack. Offer these at any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A pineapple upside-down cake with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries in a cast iron skillet.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake features caramelized pineapple atop a fluffy yellow cake. This classic dessert is known for its attractive appearance and flavor. It is ideal for celebrations or just a cozy evening at home. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake is a nostalgic treat that evokes fond memories.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

A white plate with four square pieces of Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies bars.
Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

White chocolate and speculoos come together in Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies for a lovely twist on traditional blondies. These are rich with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is ideal for cookie and chocolate enthusiasts looking for something different. They’re excellent as a dessert or as a treat with a cup of tea. These blondies redefine indulgence with a hint of spice.
Get the Recipe: Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

Turtle Brownies

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turtle Brownies are dense, chocolatey, and loaded with pecans and caramel. Every bite is layered with gooey, crunchy textures. They are a superb option for those who love layered desserts. Serve these at your next family gathering to please a crowd, or keep them all to yourself during a movie night. They are a decadent choice for dessert lovers looking for rich flavors.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies

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