19 Easy Make-Ahead Desserts Every Busy Host Needs
Hosting is easier when dessert is already done, and these make-ahead treats save time without sacrificing flavor. Each recipe delivers sweet rewards with minimal effort before guests arrive.
These desserts keep beautifully and serve perfectly, letting you focus on the fun part of hosting. Every guest will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
Apple Crumb Pie
Apple Crumb Pie has lovely spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy crumb topping. This Dutch Apple Pie is much easier than a traditional double-crust pie!
Get The Recipe: Apple Crumb Pie.
Cranberry Cherry Crisp
This Cranberry Cherry Crisp couldn’t be easier and boasts the added benefits of being vegan and gluten-free! What a perfect holiday dessert that is also pretty healthy, with lots of antioxidants and fiber!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cherry Crisp.
Raspberry Sherbet / Sorbet
Super tasty and colorful, Raspberry Sherbet or Sorbet is an awesome treat that’s both dairy-free and vegan, making it a great choice for everyone. This frozen dessert can be made with either fresh or frozen raspberries, allowing you to enjoy its bright, tangy flavor any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Sherbet / Sorbet.
Cucumber Sorbet
Skip the fancy spa and make your own Cucumber Sorbet. It’s so easy and a great use for all of those cucumbers you are picking from your garden! Fresh cucumber recipes are hard to come by if you don’t want to do pickles or relish. This is one of the easiest uses for your excess of cucumbers! Cucumber Sorbet is a famous palate-cleansing recipe.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Sorbet.
Gluten Free Lemon Meringue Pie
Making your own gluten-free lemon Meringue Pie could not be easier! This Lemon Meringue Pie has a special twist! It has a chocolate crust! Yum!
Get The Recipe: Gluten Free Lemon Meringue Pie.
Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake
This Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake is the same recipe that your mom or grandma made, bringing back memories with every bite. The recipe has been featured on the box of Hershey’s brand cocoa powder for nearly a century, a testament to its timeless appeal and deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake.
Peach Crisp Recipe
Peach crisp is an easy summer dessert that can be assembled in less than 15 minutes! This Peach Crisp Recipe is Gluten Free and Vegan! You can make crisps with or without oats; we prefer them with oats! Substitute nuts or just use flour to make it oat-free! You can also use canned, frozen, or fresh peaches in this vegan peach crisp.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crisp Recipe.
Tiramisu Cake
We’re giving classic Italian tiramisu a little American makeover. If you’re worried about raw eggs or not a fan of the boozy version, then you’re in the right place. Be ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of this espresso-soaked delight!
Get The Recipe: Tiramisu Cake.
Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Do you love banana pudding? If you answered yes, this cake is for you! The ultimate sweet treat, all the flavors of classic banana pudding, but in cake form!
Get The Recipe: Banana Pudding Poke Cake.
Dairy Free Pumpkin Pie
This Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie recipe is as straightforward as pie gets! Perfect for those who avoid lactose, it replaces traditional evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this fall favorite.
Get the Recipe: Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie.
Pumpkin Dump Cake
Pumpkin Dump Cake is the perfect fall dessert when you’re ready for pumpkin pie but don’t want to wait for Thanksgiving! With a creamy pumpkin pie bottom and a simple cake mix topping. Make it extra special and add some whipped cream and candied pecans.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake.
Blueberry Delight
This creamy, no-bake blueberry delight layered with sweetened cream cheese and blueberry pie filling comes together in under 10 minutes.
Get The Recipe: Blueberry Delight.
Pumpkin Fluff Dip Dessert
Serve your guests a sweet, fall-inspired dessert or snack with this dreamy pumpkin fluff dip. Pumpkin purée, cream cheese, and pumpkin pie spice are combined with whipped cream and crushed biscuits for added crunch. You can make this fall dip ahead of time and chill until serving.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fluff Dip Dessert.
Pumpkin Pie Cake
Pumpkin pie cake has a layer of pumpkin spice custard topped with a layer of rich, buttery cake crumbs.
Get The Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cake.
Holiday Green Jello Salad
A vintage holiday Jell-O salad recipe featuring lime gelatin, pineapple, cream cheese, and whipped topping. No cottage cheese in this one!
Get The Recipe: Lime Jello Salad.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie (Easy No-Bake Recipe)
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of our no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie, made with an Oreo cookie crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a Cool Whip topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie (Easy No-Bake Recipe).
No-Bake Chocolate Pie
Easy no-bake chocolate pie recipe! This simple chocolate mousse pie is made with a pre-made chocolate pie crust & six other pantry staples.
Get The Recipe: No-Bake Chocolate Pie.
Heaven On Earth Cake Recipe
Don’t turn on the oven with this delicious heaven on earth cake recipe full of vanilla sponge cake, fruit, and Cool Whip for a delicious no-bake treat!
Get The Recipe: No-Bake Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe: Easy Dessert.
Banana Split Cake
This easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe is loaded with flavor, featuring a creamy filling topped with traditional toppings without the mess.
Get The Recipe: Banana Split Cake.
