• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Desserts

29 Desserts That Look Fancy but Are Actually Easy

Published: Nov 1, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Creating beautiful desserts can feel overwhelming, especially when thinking about fancy ones often seen in bakeries. Many people believe that these sweet treats require special skills or complicated steps. There are plenty of desserts that look fancy but are actually easy to prepare at home without spending too much time or effort.

Carrot cake muffins on a cooling rack.
Carrot Cake Muffins. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Close-up of a Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake with two slices stacked at the front of a serving platter.
Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Light with a hint of lemon, Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is a treat you can easily whip up. It has a moist texture perfect for tea time or dessert. A simple lemon glaze adds even more flavor without much effort. Comes together with basic steps and ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close up photo of a stack of pecan chocolate chip cookies.
Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crunchy nuts meet sweet chocolate in Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re simple to make but taste like they came from a fancy bakery. A favorite for any cookie lover without complex methods. Just mix, bake, and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin Blondies

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Blondies with a fall twist define Pumpkin Blondies. They are rich, spiced, and moist, excellent for seasonal baking. Easy to mix and bake, no special equipment needed. Perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you're craving something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Side angle view of piped Nutella cookies on a wooden board lined with parchment paper.
3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nutty chocolate flavor in easy steps describes 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies. They are soft and chewy, perfect for quick treats or parties. With only three ingredients, anyone can make them in no time. Always a hit with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Pistachio Bundt Cake

Close-up image of a pistachio bundt cake on a cake stand.
Pistachio Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

With a bright green color, Pistachio Bundt Cake catches the eye. It’s easy to make but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. The moist texture and nutty flavor are a real treat. Perfect for special occasions or just because you love cake.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Bundt Cake

Danish Butter Cookies

Four swirled butter cookies, each nestled in a white paper liner, arranged on a wooden tray.
Danish Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crisp on the outside and buttery inside, Danish Butter Cookies melt in your mouth. They look intricate but are surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for holidays or as homemade gifts. The classic shapes make them fun to bake and share.
Get the Recipe: Danish Butter Cookies

Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel)

Close up of Mandarin Cake showing the perfect caramelization.
Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Melting caramel, juicy mandarin slices, and a fluffy cake come together for Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel). The upside-down structure ensures a fun surprise every time you cut into it. Perfect for impressing guests without too much effort. Prepare it the night before for an easy dessert after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel)

Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot cake muffins on a cooling rack.
Carrot Cake Muffins. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Spiced and moist, Carrot Cake Muffins are a bakery favorite you can make at home. They are packed with flavor and easy to bake. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they taste rich but are simple to create. You’ll love the texture and taste without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Muffins

Holiday Butter Cookies

A close-up view of holiday butter cookies on a white plate.
Holiday Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Celebrate the season with Holiday Butter Cookies that are rich and buttery. They hold their shapes well, making them great for cutout designs. Whether decorated or plain, they are crowd-pleasers. Quick to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butter Cookies

Pistachio Muffins

Top view of four pistachio muffins on a wooden board, with one muffin placed separately and pistachios in the background.
Pistachio Muffins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Light green muffins with crunchy nuts scattered in every bite make Pistachio Muffins a must-try. They look like they came from a bakery but are super easy to make at home. Great for breakfast or a snack, their nutty charm is unmistakable. Simple ingredients and a few steps, and they're ready.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Muffins

Bisquick Apple Cobbler

An overhead image of bisquick apple cobbler in a skillet pan topped with vanilla ice cream.
Bisquick Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sweet apples and a golden crust come together in Bisquick Apple Cobbler. Easy to make with store-bought mix, yet feels homemade. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the best results. Prepare it as a quick after-dinner dessert without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Apple Cobbler

Yellow Cake Mix Cookies

Overhead view of yellow cake mix cookies after baking.
Yellow Cake Mix Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mix, bake, and enjoy the simplicity of Yellow Cake Mix Cookies. They turn out soft and chewy, excellent for any cookie jar. Using a store-bought mix makes these cookies fuss-free. Always ready to disappear quickly at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Cake Mix Cookies

Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

An image of Jamaican sweet potato pudding being sliced.
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Picture sweet potatoes in a soft, moist pudding and you have Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding. Spices and sweetness combine to create a rich dessert that's easy yet feels special. Just toss everything together and bake. Perfect for family gatherings with minimal ado.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Air Fryer S'mores

A close-up view of a stack of s'mores, consisting of toasted marshmallows and melted chocolate sandwiched between graham crackers.
Air Fryer S'mores. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mini marshmallows and melted chocolate make Air Fryer S'mores a quick and fun dessert. All the flavors of a campfire snack in a neat, air-fried package. Perfect for any time you want something sweet without much time commitment. Great for kids' parties or a simple evening treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S'mores

Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

A plate of pumpkin cookies with white chocolate chips is displayed on a table.
Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chunks of white chocolate and the aroma of pumpkin fill Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies. They have a soft texture that feels bakery-fresh but can be made at home. Amazing for fall with minimal ingredients and steps. Great for cookie swaps or at-home treats.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin Banana Bread

An overhead view of a freshly baked loaf of pumpkin bread with chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds sits in a parchment-lined loaf pan.
Pumpkin Banana Bread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Combining two favorites, the Vegan Pumpkin Banana Bread is moist and flavorful. It’s vegan-friendly but still packed with taste. Simple baking steps make it a go-to for morning or snacks. No special skills are needed for this healthy treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Banana Bread

Strawberry White Chocolate Muffins

An image of strawberry white chocolate muffins.
Strawberry White Chocolate Muffins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fresh strawberries and tiny chocolate bits make Strawberry White Chocolate Muffins stand out. They’re pretty and colorful, turning any tea-time into a treat. Easy enough for a weekday bake, yet fancy enough for guests. The mix of fruit and chocolate is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry White Chocolate Muffins

Mixed Berry Galette

A top view image of mixed berry galette in sheet pan with a scoop of icecream in the middle.
Mixed Berry Galette. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Full of mixed berries wrapped in a flaky crust, Mixed Berry Galette is an easy way to impress. It sounds fancy, but no special skills are needed. Best served with a light dusting of sugar or a scoop of ice cream. Great for summer gatherings or just a simple treat.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Galette

Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

Close up view of lemon curd cookies with a lavender flower in background.
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft cookies with a tart center describe Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. They are small but packed with flavor, great for any occasion. Easy enough for beginners but looks bakery-perfect. The lemon curd gives them a special twist without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Top view of Pumpkin Bundt Cake.
Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With its round shape and spiced flavor, the Pumpkin Bundt Cake holds its own at any table. Looks intricate but is straightforward to whip up in your kitchen. The autumn spices and moist texture make it perfect for fall, but it's also a hit year-round. Just a few steps, and it’s ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bundt Cake

No Chill Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up image of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies on a baking sheet.
No Chill Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

For quick baking, No Chill Chocolate Chip Cookies are your best bet. They turn out crispy on the edges and soft in the center. Perfect for any cookie lover without the need to chill dough. Prepare and bake them in a jiffy.
Get the Recipe: No Chill Chocolate Chip Cookies

Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

An image of peach cobbler in a baking dish with a portion of it missing.
Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft peaches and a flaky pie crust spell the charm of Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust. It looks bakery-fancy but can be made with simple pantry items. Serve it warm with ice cream for a top-tier dessert. Great for using up ripe peaches without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Side angle view of almond flour peanut butter cookies with one half-bitten cookie.
Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Simple and nutty, Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies are a healthier choice. They have a soft texture with a rich peanut flavor. Easy steps make them great for any time you need a quick treat. No complicated prep, just mix and bake.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Strawberry Spoon Cake

A close up shot of strawberry spoon cake in a cast iron skillet, ready to be served.
Strawberry Spoon Cake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Imagine scooping into a fluffy cake full of sweet strawberries, and you get Strawberry Spoon Cake. It's easy to make and even easier to eat, with a pudding-like texture. The perfect summer dessert that won’t keep you in the kitchen long. Serve it cool for a refreshing treat.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Spoon Cake

Lemon Coolers

An overhead image of lemon coolers in a tray with slices of lemon in the background.
Lemon Coolers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon Coolers have a bright, citrus taste that pairs well with any season. They’re light and dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Easy to bake and perfect for tea parties or simple treats. Their refreshing flavor makes them stand out with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Coolers

Microwave Mug Cake with Cake Mix

A close up photo of cooked microwave mug cake.
Microwave Mug Cake with Cake Mix. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Whip up a quick treat with Microwave Mug Cake with Cake Mix. All it takes is a few minutes in the microwave and simple ingredients. Perfect for those late-night cravings without dirtying a lot of dishes. Each cup is a portion-controlled dessert in no time.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Mug Cake with Cake Mix

Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

A close-up photo of a sliced apple pie with graham cracker crust on a white plate, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 
Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spiced apples and a crumbly graham cracker crust create Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust. It gives a fresh spin to the classic pie while keeping it simple. The perfect fall dessert with minimal prep work. Just layer, bake, and serve.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Peanut Butter Brownies

Close-up image of a batch of peanut butter brownies with a stack of three in the middle, the top one bitten.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Chewy with a rich peanut taste, Peanut Butter Brownies are easy to prepare. They combine the best of brownies and peanut butter. No need for special tools or ingredients, making them hassle-free. Great for casual gatherings or a sweet snack.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A close up view of pecan pie cheesecake slice on a white plate, with a fork on the side.
No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy cheesecake meets crunchy nuts in No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake. No need to turn on the oven, making it a stress-free dessert. Perfect for holiday tables or any celebration. It stands out with its layered look and rich taste.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

More Desserts

  • A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars
  • Overhead image of two pumpkin pie rice krispies on a plate in the center, with an additional slice on a smaller plate nearby.
    Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies  
  • Close-up image of homemade pink orange donuts on a cooling rack, with two donuts pierced together by a fork.
    Homemade Pink Orange Donuts
  • Close-up of a Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake with two slices stacked at the front of a serving platter.
    Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
    Potato And Sausage Chowder
  • Close-up of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
    Stuffed Pepper Soup
  • A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
    Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells
  • A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
    Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC