Who says dessert has to wait? These 19 desserts prove that sometimes, the best part of the meal deserves to go first. They’re not just sweet. They’re memorable, the kind of treats you’ll find yourself craving out of nowhere. And they’re not playing second fiddle to any main dish; they’re here to take center stage and make a lasting impression. So, why not flip the script and let dessert lead the way?
Turtle Brownies
If you are looking for a dessert that mixes gooey, nutty, and sweet, look no further than Turtle Brownies. With their rich center filled with pecans and caramel, they make forgetting about the main course easy. Ending the meal on such a decadent note, it’s clear why they’re often the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Capturing the essence of cinnamon rolls in a cookie format, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are as innovative as they are irresistible. Bite-sized and brimming with cinnamon sugar swirls, they offer a unique take on a beloved classic. They’re the kind of treat that leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cranberry Bars
For a refreshing twist on dessert, Cranberry Bars offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart. Each bite is packed with the tangy flavor of cranberries, making these bars a standout choice. They’re the kind of dessert that might just become a new favorite for those who prefer a fruity finish to their meals.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies reach new heights of deliciousness when made in an air fryer. The result is a batch of Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies that are crispy on the outside yet soft inside. They prove that sometimes, a simple change in cooking method can elevate a classic cookie to an unforgettable treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Fall Brownie Cupcake
Merging the decadence of brownies with the convenience of cupcakes creates the ultimate dessert: the Fall Brownie Cupcake. This fusion dessert is perfect for serving when you want something indulgently simple. It’s the kind of sweet treat that concludes any meal memorably.
Get the Recipe: Fall Brownie Cupcake
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Bringing a sense of nostalgia with every bite, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the quintessential comfort food. Chewy, with a hint of cinnamon and packed with juicy raisins, they embody the warmth of home in a cookie. They’re the go-to choice for anyone in search of a dessert that feels like a cozy embrace.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Rhubarb Bread
Offering a slice of something different, Rhubarb Bread marries the tartness of rhubarb with sweet batter in an unexpectedly delicious way. This loaf introduces a tangy twist to the dessert table, sparking conversations and curiosity. It’s a standout choice for those looking to shake up their dessert game.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread
Mini Egg Cookies
Bursting with colorful mini eggs, Mini Egg Cookies are a playful and satisfying treat. The crunch of the eggs mixed with the soft cookie dough makes these cookies a festive and fun choice for any occasion. They’re especially perfect for when the mood calls for something a bit more whimsical.
Get the Recipe: Mini Egg Cookies
Strawberry Upside Down Cake
This twist on the traditional, Strawberry Upside Down Cake, brings a burst of berry flavor atop a moist, tender cake. It’s as eye-catching as it is delicious, making it a surefire way to impress guests. This dessert stands out for its combination of beauty and flavor, proving to be a memorable finale to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies
When pumpkin meets the classic snickerdoodle, the result is nothing short of magical. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies offer a soft, chewy texture with a hint of spice, embodying the essence of autumn. Ideal for those cooler days, they’re like a warm, spiced hug in cookie form.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies
Pecan Butter Balls
Little bites of heaven, Pecan Butter Balls melt in your mouth with their blend of buttery goodness and nutty crunch. These elegant, addictive treats make it hard to remember there was a main course at all. They don’t just outshine the main course; they become the main event.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Butter Balls
Chocolate Caramel Cookies
For a truly decadent experience, Chocolate Caramel Cookies fill every bite with gooey caramel and rich chocolate. Elevating the classic cookie into a dessert of its own league, they make a bold statement on the dessert menu. It’s a testament to how dessert can, indeed, be the highlight of a meal.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies
Mango Curd
As a light and refreshing way to end a meal, Mango Curd offers a sweet, tangy flavor that’s hard to beat. Its bright, tropical taste and silky texture make it a versatile addition to many desserts or simply delightful on its own. For a fruity finish, it’s an excellent choice, especially on warmer days.
Get the Recipe: Mango Curd
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Combining classic chocolate chip cookies with a layer of creamy frosting, these treats are for those who love to double down on sweetness. Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful mash-up that brings the best of both worlds. They’re a testament to the joy of combining favorites into one amazing dessert.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Butter Scones
Rich, crumbly, and utterly indulgent, Butter Scones is a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert. Perfectly paired with your favorite tea or coffee, they add a touch of elegance to any meal’s end. For those seeking a refined yet simple dessert, these scones are a prime choice.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
Mixing the buttery bliss of shortbread with the colorful crunch of M&Ms, Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms are a joyous celebration in every bite. This playful twist on the traditional brings a smile to faces and adds a festive vibe to any dessert lineup. They’re a surefire way to make dessert time a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls ingeniously combine spiced apple filling with soft, doughy rolls, offering a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious. They have the potential to become the highlight of any meal, seamlessly blending two beloved classics. It’s a dessert innovation that’s both comforting and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Zuccihini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Sneaking zucchini into cookies might sound unusual, but Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans turn skepticism into admiration. These cookies are surprisingly moist, with the added texture of pecans and the richness of chocolate chips blending seamlessly. It’s a clever way to incorporate a bit of green into your dessert, making these cookies a hit for both their flavor and novelty.
Get the Recipe: Zuccihini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Brown Butter Apple Blondies
The comforting flavors of brown butter and apple come together in Brown Butter Apple Blondies, creating a dessert that’s both rich and comforting. Their unique taste and soft, chewy texture make them a standout treat, ideal for anyone looking to end their meal on a note of cozy indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Apple Blondies