Small Batch Sweets: Quick Desserts for Two

Quick Desserts for Two

Chocolate Lava Cake

This chocolate lava cake is rich, gooey, and perfect for two. With a soft, warm cake exterior and a molten chocolate center, this dessert is pure indulgence in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease two small ramekins.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
3. Add powdered sugar to the melted chocolate and butter, mixing well. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until combined.
4. Gently fold in the flour and salt until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the ramekins and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
6. Let cool for 1-2 minutes, then gently turn the cakes onto plates. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

These mini strawberry cheesecakes are light, creamy, and topped with a luscious strawberry layer. They’re just right for a quick and impressive dessert.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh strawberry slices for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of two small serving cups or ramekins to form a crust.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the sour cream until fully combined.
3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crust in each cup, smoothing the tops.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour, then top with fresh strawberry slices before serving.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies for Two

Who can resist a warm chocolate chip cookie? This recipe is designed to make just two large, chewy cookies, perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract, then mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Divide the dough into two balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening slightly.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.

Lemon Berry Mug Cake

This light, fluffy mug cake is a fruity treat that comes together in minutes. With fresh berries and a hint of lemon, it’s a delightful dessert to enjoy right out of the mug.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
2. Add vegetable oil, milk, and lemon zest, stirring until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the berries.
4. Microwave on high for 1-1.5 minutes until the cake is fluffy and cooked through. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

This elegant panna cotta is creamy and silky, with a subtle vanilla flavor. It’s a sophisticated dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1/2 teaspoon powdered gelatin
• Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
2. Sprinkle the gelatin over the mixture, allowing it to bloom for 2-3 minutes. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
3. Add the vanilla bean paste or extract, mixing well.
4. Pour the mixture into two small cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
5. Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey before serving.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Mug Brownie

This decadent mug brownie combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a single serving. It’s a quick fix for chocolate cravings that’s as simple as it is satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
2. Stir in milk and vegetable oil until a smooth batter forms.
3. Drop a spoonful of peanut butter into the center of the batter.
4. Microwave on high for 45-60 seconds until the brownie is set but still soft in the middle.
5. Let cool slightly before digging in with a spoon.

Why Small Batch Sweets Are Perfect for Couples and Small Households

Small batch desserts are wonderful for couples or anyone who wants a quick, low-commitment treat. They save time and reduce waste while still satisfying your sweet tooth. These desserts are designed for ease, making them ideal for those impromptu cravings or last-minute date nights.
Additionally, because these recipes focus on individual portions, they allow for more variety—so you can make a different dessert each time and never get bored! From rich lava cakes to refreshing panna cotta, small batch sweets offer all the comfort and indulgence of a full dessert without the leftovers.
Try these simple, delicious small-batch sweets the next time you need a treat for two, and enjoy a delightful dessert experience without the extra cleanup.