Family gatherings are a perfect opportunity to indulge in sweet treats that everyone will love. Here are three examples of simple desserts for family gatherings that are not just easy to make but also sure to please a crowd.
This dessert is perfect for those warm days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen! These bars are a crowd-pleaser, combining rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter for a delightful treat.
Start by lining an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Stir until fully mixed, and then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. For the topping, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into squares. These bars are sweet, satisfying, and require no baking!
Notes: You can substitute almond butter for a nut-free option or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick.
These colorful mini fruit pizzas are a fun and interactive dessert that kids and adults alike will enjoy assembling! They’re perfect for family gatherings where everyone can customize their own.
To create the base, start with store-bought sugar cookie dough. Preheat the oven and bake the cookies according to package instructions, making them about 2 inches in diameter to keep them mini. Allow them to cool completely. For the frosting, mix together 1 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie. Now comes the fun part—top each mini pizza with an assortment of fresh fruits like sliced strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and mandarin oranges. You can even drizzle a bit of honey or chocolate syrup on top for added sweetness!
Notes: Try using seasonal fruits for variety, and consider using whole wheat cookie dough for a healthier twist.
Apple crisp is a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any family gathering, especially during the fall. It’s warm, delicious, and incredibly simple to prepare.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice about 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well) and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, and 1/2 cup of softened butter. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of delight!
Notes: You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the apple mixture for a spiced flavor or try using different fruits like pears for a twist on the traditional recipe.
These examples of simple desserts for family gatherings will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create lasting memories as you enjoy them with your loved ones!