12 Easy 5-Ingredient Dessert Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank

Busy days don’t have to mean skipping dessert! Check out these 12 budget-friendly recipes that only require five ingredients each. Perfect for quick prep, these sweet treats are designed to fit into your hectic schedule without emptying your wallet. Grab your apron and get ready for some simple and delicious fun in the kitchen!

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and wholesome goodness. With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are simple to whip up, making them a go-to for any busy woman looking for a quick yet satisfying dessert.

The soft texture combined with the chewy oats creates a comforting bite, while the bananas add natural sweetness and flavor. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Enjoy them as a snack, breakfast on the go, or even a post-workout pick-me-up!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add the rolled oats, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lemon Yogurt Parfaits

Lemon yogurt parfaits are a refreshing and creamy treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With a bright, zesty flavor from the lemon and a smooth texture from the yogurt, these parfaits are both satisfying and light. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great option for busy women who want a quick dessert without the hassle.

This delightful dessert combines layers of yogurt, crunchy granola, and tart lemon juice to create a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors. Each spoonful offers a burst of citrus goodness that’s sure to brighten your day. Best of all, you only need five ingredients to bring this deliciousness to life!

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup granola
• Slices of lemon for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and lemon juice. Stir until well blended.
2. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the yogurt mixture with granola, starting with a layer of yogurt at the bottom.
3. Add a layer of granola, then repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
4. Top with a slice of lemon for garnish and serve immediately or chill in the fridge for a bit before serving.

Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats are a delightful twist on the classic treat we all know and love. These bars are chewy, crunchy, and filled with that irresistible peanut butter flavor. They’re not just delicious; they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy days.

With just five ingredients, you can have a batch ready in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sweet treat to share, these bars will hit the spot. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, so you can enjoy a tasty dessert without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 4 cups rice cereal
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Rice Cereal: Gradually fold in the rice cereal until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Press Mixture: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill: Let the bars cool in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set before slicing them into squares.

No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Cups

No-bake berry cheesecake cups are a delightful treat that combines creamy cheesecake filling with the freshness of assorted berries. This dessert is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for busy days when you want something sweet without the hassle of baking.

The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tartness of the berries, making each bite a satisfying experience. These cups are simple to prepare, requiring minimal time and effort, yet they look impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottoms of serving cups to form a crust.
2. Make the Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cup, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
4. Add Toppings: Top each cheesecake cup with a generous handful of mixed berries.
5. Chill and Serve: Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

This chocolate avocado mousse is a delightful and creamy dessert that’s both healthy and indulgent. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the smooth texture of ripe avocados creates a surprisingly delicious treat that your taste buds will adore. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when you want something sweet without a lot of fuss.

With just five ingredients, this dessert is not only budget-friendly but also caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan options. You won’t believe how easy it is to make a rich, chocolatey mousse that tastes decadent but is actually packed with nutrition!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add Ingredients: To the avocados, add cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Blend: Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mousse and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more honey or maple syrup.
5. Chill and Serve: Transfer the mousse into serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy and delicious chocolate avocado mousse!

Coconut Macaroons with Dark Chocolate Drizzle

Coconut macaroons are a delightful treat that combines the sweet, chewy texture of coconut with a rich dark chocolate drizzle. These bites are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.

Simple to whip up, this recipe requires just five ingredients, making it an excellent choice for busy women who want to create something delicious quickly. The contrast of the toasty coconut and the smooth dark chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven!

Ingredients

• 2 2/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture until just combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown and the tops are lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
6. While the macaroons are cooling, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled macaroons using a fork or piping bag. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Easy Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Chocolate dipped pretzels are a delightful treat that perfectly combines sweet and salty flavors. They are quick to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, making them an ideal dessert for busy women looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without a lot of effort.

The crunch of the pretzels mingles beautifully with the smooth, rich chocolate, and you can easily customize them with colorful sprinkles or drizzles for a fun touch. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a movie night, or a simple snack, these treats are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups mini pretzels
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Assorted sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Repeat the process with the white chocolate chips and remaining vegetable oil.
3. Dip the Pretzels: Dip half of each pretzel into the melted milk chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle the dipped pretzels with colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets. For a fun twist, you can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the milk chocolate pretzels.
5. Let Them Set: Allow the pretzels to cool and the chocolate to harden, about 30 minutes. Enjoy your delicious chocolate dipped pretzels!

Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry Twists

Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful treat that combines the light, flaky texture of puff pastry with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. These twists are incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for busy women looking for a quick yet satisfying dessert. The sweet aroma of cinnamon fills the kitchen as they bake, promising a delicious bite each time.

With just five ingredients, these twists can be whipped up in no time, whether you’re preparing a snack for yourself or entertaining guests. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a delightful contrast that everyone will love. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon break!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. Set aside.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth it out. Cut the pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide.
4. Brush each strip with the beaten egg mixed with water, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over each strip.
5. Twist each strip several times and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Bites

These Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Bites are a deliciously simple treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without breaking the bank. With a rich chocolate flavor and a hint of nuttiness from hazelnuts, these bites are perfect for a quick pick-me-up during a busy day.

Making them is a breeze! Just throw together a few ingredients, roll them into bite-sized balls, and you’re done. They’re great as a snack or a healthy dessert option, making them a hit for anyone looking for something tasty yet nutritious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chocolate hazelnut spread, honey or maple syrup, and cocoa powder. Mix until well combined.
2. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Once mixed, scoop out small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls with your hands.
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

This Strawberry Banana Ice Cream is a delightful treat that’s both creamy and refreshing. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking the bank. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with juicy strawberries, creating a flavor that’s both vibrant and indulgent.

Making this ice cream is super easy. Simply blend the ingredients together, freeze, and enjoy! It’s a fantastic dessert option for busy women who want a quick and delicious sweet fix.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled
• 1 cup yogurt (plain or vanilla)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Slice the ripe bananas and add them to a blender or food processor.
2. Next, add the hulled strawberries, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
5. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Scoop and enjoy your homemade strawberry banana ice cream!

Caramelized Apple Nachos

Caramelized apple nachos are a delightful and easy dessert that perfectly blends crunchy and gooey textures. With crispy apple slices drizzled in sweet caramel and topped with nuts, each bite is a tasty treat that feels indulgent yet remains simple to prepare. It’s a fantastic option for busy women looking for a quick yet satisfying dessert.

This recipe is not only budget-friendly, requiring just five ingredients, but it also takes minimal time to assemble. Perfect for a cozy night in or a last-minute gathering, caramelized apple nachos are sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

• 2 large apples, sliced
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly and slice them into even wedges. Arrange them on a plate.
2. Drizzle Caramel: Warm the caramel sauce slightly if needed, then drizzle it generously over the apple slices.
3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped nuts and cinnamon over the caramel-drizzled apples. If desired, add mini chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately as a fun and delicious dessert!

Vanilla Pudding Fruit Cups

Vanilla pudding fruit cups are a delightful treat that are perfect for busy days. With a creamy vanilla pudding base layered with fresh fruits, they are not only tasty but visually appealing too. This simple recipe makes a quick dessert that everyone will love.

The combination of smooth vanilla pudding and juicy fruits creates a refreshing dessert that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite fruits, making it versatile and fun!

Ingredients

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup whipped topping
• 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, and mango)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
2. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping and vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until well combined.
3. Layer the Cups: In individual serving cups or bowls, layer the pudding mixture and fresh fruit. Start with a layer of pudding, then add a layer of fruit, and repeat until cups are full.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your refreshing dessert!