800+ Dessert Recipes

Cakes

A pile of homemade caramel-coconut oreos and a glass of milk

Best Winter Desserts

Meyer Lemon Tart with a Layer of Chocolate

2 hrs 20 mins

White Christmas Cake with White Chocolate Buttercream

10 hrs

Flourless Chocolate Cloud Cake

1 hr 15 mins

Our Favorite Pies

more pies, tarts, and crisps

Chocolate Cream Pie with Oreo Crust

4 hrs

Dessert 101 FAQs

Dessert is often the highlight of a meal, particularly at a big holiday feast. It also often requires the most time and effort to prepare. Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions on making and storing desserts, getting ahead of the game, and cooking for folks with dietary needs.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO STORE DESSERTS?

It depends on the type of dessert. If it’s made with dairy products, such as milk or cream, it should be stored in the refrigerator. Baked goods like cookies and bars can usually be stored in a sealed container at room temperature.

What types of desserts can BE MADE AHEAD OF TIME?

Frozen desserts such as ice cream, or ice cream pie, can be made several days in advance and stored in the freezer until you are ready to serve. Cakes and cupcakes can also be made and frozen, undecorated, for up to 3 months. Other desserts, such as brownies, cookies, and pies, can usually be made 1 to 2 days before serving.

What’s the best way to freeze desserts?

If you are making a frozen dessert, such as ice cream, we recommend storing it in a freezer-safe airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Cakes and cupcakes should be cooled completely before freezing. They can be stored, unfrosted, in resealable bags, or wrapped well in plastic.

can you suggest some desserts for guests who have allergies?

For guests who need to avoid gluten, we recommend this dark chocolate mousse. If you need a dessert for vegan, egg-free, or dairy-free folks, try this simple apple sorbet, or these crispy oatmeal cookies.