23 heavenly desserts that prove happiness is homemade

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When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, nothing beats homemade desserts. These 23 recipes show that you don’t need fancy techniques or expensive ingredients to create something truly special. Each dessert offers a comforting, homemade touch that brings a sense of happiness and warmth to your table. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these desserts prove that happiness really is homemade.

A glass baking dish containing frosted cinnamon rolls, with a portion missing and a metal serving spatula resting in the dish.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Mini Apple Pies

Mini Apple Pies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

These Mini Apple Pies pack all the flavor of a classic apple pie into a smaller, hand-held treat. Made with fresh apples and dates, they deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and spice in every bite. Ready in about an hour, these pies are a cozy and convenient way to enjoy the taste of a traditional apple pie. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a quick dessert.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies

Argentinian Flan (Bread Pudding) with Caramel Sauce

Honey cake in individual bundt shape with honey container.
Argentinian Flan (Bread Pudding) with Caramel Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Argentinian Flan combines the rich, custardy texture of bread pudding with a smooth caramel sauce. It features simple ingredients like eggs, milk, and bread, creating a dessert that’s creamy and satisfying. Ready in just over an hour, it’s a comforting dessert with a deep caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for those who love classic, homestyle desserts.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Flan (Bread Pudding) with Caramel Sauce

Peach Crumble Bars

A stack of three peach crumble bars on a black plate.
Peach Crumble Bars. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Peach Crumble Bars offer the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe peaches layered between a buttery crumble crust. These bars are easy to make and take just about an hour from start to finish. The combination of the sweet peaches and crumbly topping makes for a delightful texture that’s both crisp and tender. They’re perfect for a summertime treat or a quick dessert for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble Bars

Argentinian Alfajores

Alfajores on marble plate with coffee.
Argentinian Alfajores. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Argentinian Alfajores are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche. These traditional cookies are made with cornstarch, making them soft and light, with a hint of citrus from lemon zest. They take about 45 minutes to prepare and are perfect for those who enjoy sweet, buttery flavors with a smooth caramel filling. A classic treat that’s great for sharing or enjoying with coffee.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Alfajores

Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Pineapple Ice Cream Cake on a white plate next to a pool of sauce.
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes combine the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of ice cream in a delightful mini dessert. These no-bake treats are easy to assemble and take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus freezing time. The fresh pineapple flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy ice cream and a crunchy graham cracker crust. These are a refreshing and light dessert perfect for hot days.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Basil Peach Cobbler

Overhead of peach cobbler on baking sheet.
Basil Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Basil Peach Cobbler is a unique twist on a classic dessert, combining sweet, juicy peaches with the subtle, savory notes of fresh basil. This cobbler is easy to prepare, taking about an hour to bake, and features a tender, golden biscuit topping that complements the fruit filling. The basil adds an unexpected depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches. It’s a fresh and satisfying summer dessert.
Get the Recipe: Basil Peach Cobbler

Butterscotch Apple Crisp

A butterscotch apple crumble in a cast iron skillet on a wooden cutting board.
Butterscotch Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Butterscotch Apple Crisp offers a warm, comforting dessert with layers of tender apples and a rich butterscotch sauce, all topped with a crunchy oat crumble. This dessert takes about an hour to make and combines the sweet, buttery flavors of butterscotch with the tartness of fresh apples. The crisp topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft fruit. It’s a cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Apple Crisp

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

A bowl of strawberry crumble dessert on a striped tablecloth.
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe strawberries and tart rhubarb in a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The fruit is topped with a buttery oat crumble that bakes to golden perfection in about an hour. The combination of juicy fruit and crunchy topping makes for a delightful texture that’s both satisfying and flavorful. It’s a classic dessert that’s perfect for spring or summer.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Spiced Shortbread Cookies

A white plate of a line of Spiced Shortbread Cookies lined up.
Spiced Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spiced Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crumbly cookies with a warm, spiced flavor from cinnamon and nutmeg. These cookies are easy to make, requiring just about 30 minutes of baking time, and are perfect for a cozy treat during the colder months. The spices add a comforting warmth to the delicate, buttery shortbread base. They’re great for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a simple dessert.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Shortbread Cookies

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

A white plate filled with Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies on a red and green striped place mat.
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies are chewy, wholesome treats made with oats and packed with flavors like cinnamon and vanilla. These cookies take about 30 minutes to bake and are a perfect option for those looking for a gluten-free dessert. The oats give these cookies a satisfying texture, while the cinnamon adds a touch of warmth. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a comforting dessert.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

Blackberry Crumble Pie

Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.
Blackberry Crumble Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Crumble Pie combines the juicy, sweet-tart flavor of blackberries with a buttery, crumbly topping. This pie takes about an hour to bake and is a perfect way to enjoy fresh or frozen blackberries. The crumble topping adds a delightful texture that contrasts with the soft, juicy filling. It’s a comforting dessert that’s ideal for showcasing summer berries.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Citrus Dream Tart

A plate with Citrus Dream Tart next to slices of grapefruit and blood orange.
Citrus Dream Tart. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Dream Tart is a bright, refreshing dessert featuring a smooth citrus custard in a crisp shortbread crust. This tart takes about an hour to prepare, and the combination of tangy lemon and sweet orange flavors makes it a delightful treat for citrus lovers. The shortbread crust adds a buttery contrast to the creamy filling. It’s perfect for a light dessert or special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Dream Tart

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Overhead view of apple pie with apples.
Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie is a classic dessert featuring a tender, flaky crust filled with sweet, spiced apples. This pie takes about an hour and a half to bake, with a lattice top that adds a beautiful, rustic look. The combination of tart apples and warm spices creates a comforting, nostalgic flavor. It’s the perfect dessert for fall or any time you crave a traditional apple pie.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

A stack of three lemon bars on a plate with more lemon bars in the background.
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are a tangy, sweet dessert with a creamy lemon filling on top of a buttery shortbread base. These bars are simple to make, taking about 45 minutes from start to finish, and offer a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The shortbread crust adds a rich, buttery texture that complements the bright lemon filling. They’re an easy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Homemade Cinnamon Twists

Freshly homemade cinnamon twists in a white cup with more on a cooling rack in the background.
Homemade Cinnamon Twists. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade Cinnamon Twists are soft, buttery pastries coated with a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture. These twists take about an hour to make and are a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert. The combination of the soft dough and the crunchy cinnamon sugar makes for a satisfying, comforting flavor. They’re perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Twists

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream is a tropical dessert featuring a tangy key lime filling in a graham cracker crust, topped with fluffy coconut whipped cream. This pie takes about an hour to prepare and offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The coconut whipped cream adds a light, tropical twist that complements the tartness of the lime. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Gluten-Free Apple Cake

A plate of apple pie with a slice taken out of it.
Gluten-Free Apple Cake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Gluten-Free Apple Cake is a moist, tender cake packed with chunks of fresh apples and warm spices. This cake takes about an hour to bake and is a perfect option for those looking for a gluten-free dessert. The apples keep the cake moist and add a natural sweetness, while the spices create a comforting, homey flavor. It’s a simple, satisfying dessert that’s great for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Apple Cake

Butter Pecan Cookies

Butter pecan cookies on a tray drizzled with white chocolate.
Butter Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Butter Pecan Cookies are rich, buttery cookies studded with crunchy pecans. These cookies take about 30 minutes to bake and offer a perfect balance of sweet, nutty flavors. The buttery dough is soft and tender, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. They’re perfect for a quick treat or as a tasty addition to a dessert platter.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

A pan of freshly baked and frosted apple cinnamon rolls on a dark blue background.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy rolls filled with sweet, spiced apples and topped with a drizzle of icing. These rolls take about two hours to make, including rising and baking time, and are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a pastry. The combination of warm cinnamon and tender apples creates a comforting, cozy flavor. They’re perfect for a special breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Lemon Sugar Cookies

A stack of three lemon sugar cookies with one cookie leaning against the stack, in front of jars of milk.
Lemon Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Lemon Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy cookies with a bright, zesty lemon flavor. These cookies take about 30 minutes to bake and are perfect for anyone who loves citrusy desserts. The lemon zest adds a refreshing burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery cookie base. They’re a light, easy-to-make treat that’s great for any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Sugar Cookies

Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Overhead shot of a blackberry lime tart on a white plate surrounded by edible flowers.
Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers is a vibrant dessert featuring a tangy lime filling and a fresh blackberry topping, adorned with edible flowers. This tart takes about an hour to prepare and offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The edible flowers add a touch of elegance and color to the dessert. It’s a beautiful and delicious treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Two servings of strawberry shortcake on a blue background.
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake features tender, flaky biscuits topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and whipped cream. This dessert takes about 45 minutes to make and is a classic treat that’s perfect for summer. The combination of the buttery biscuits and fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. It’s a simple, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any time.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Spiced Pear Cobbler

Spiced Pear Cobbler. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spiced Pear Cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert featuring tender pears baked with a spiced, biscuit-like topping. This cobbler takes about an hour to bake and is perfect for enjoying during the cooler months. The spices add warmth and depth to the sweet pears, while the topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a cozy dessert that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pear Cobbler

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