Craving something sweet but don't want to make a massive pudding that'll sit in your fridge for days? Single-serving desserts are the answer to your sweet tooth's prayers.
These quick fixes take minutes to prepare and satisfy those dessert cravings without any waste. Perfect for when you want a bit of indulgence all to yourself!
1. Microwave Chocolate Mug Cake
Warm, gooey chocolate heaven in just 90 seconds! Mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, milk, oil and a dash of vanilla in your favourite mug.
A quick zap in the microwave transforms these simple ingredients into a decadent dessert. Add a scoop of ice cream on top while it's still warm for an extra special treat.
2. Two-Minute Bread And Butter Pudding
Grandma's classic comfort pudding, miniaturised! Tear up a slice of bread, sprinkle with sultanas, and pour over a mixture of egg, milk, sugar and vanilla.
Microwave for two minutes and marvel at the transformation. The humble ingredients create a surprisingly luxurious pudding that tastes like it took hours to make.
3. Baked Apple With Cinnamon Crumble
Core an apple and stuff it with a mixture of oats, brown sugar, butter and cinnamon. This wholesome treat feels almost virtuous compared to other desserts!
Microwave until tender or pop in the oven if you have more time. The apple becomes wonderfully soft while the filling turns into a delicious caramelised crumble that satisfies both sweet and spice cravings.
4. Instant Banana Caramel Pudding
Slice a ripe banana into a bowl and drizzle with ready-made caramel sauce. Sprinkle crushed digestive biscuits on top for a delightful crunch.
No cooking required for this instant gratification! The combination of creamy banana, sweet caramel and crunchy biscuits creates a symphony of textures. Add a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavours even further.
5. Lemon Posset In A Jiffy
Heat 100ml double cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice.
The magic happens as it cools – the mixture thickens into a silky, tangy pudding. Pour into a pretty glass and refrigerate for 20 minutes. The refreshing citrus flavour cuts through the richness of the cream beautifully.
6. Nutella Brownie In A Mug
Four ingredients is all it takes: Nutella, an egg, flour and a pinch of salt. Mix them together in a mug and microwave for one minute.
The result? A decadent chocolate-hazelnut brownie with that perfect fudgy centre. The Nutella gives it an intense flavour that's far richer than regular chocolate. A dangerous recipe to know when chocolate cravings strike!
7. Stovetop Rice Pudding Solo
Simmer 3 tablespoons of pudding rice with 300ml milk, a spoonful of sugar and a vanilla pod for 20 minutes. The nostalgic aroma will fill your kitchen long before it's ready to eat.
Stir occasionally as the rice plumps up and the mixture thickens. Finish with a grating of nutmeg or a dollop of jam. This humble pudding proves that simple ingredients can create something truly magical.
8. Five-Minute Berry Crumble
Frozen berries are the secret weapon here! Microwave a handful until juicy, then top with a quick mix of butter, flour, sugar and oats.
Another brief stint in the microwave creates a bubbling fruit base with a crunchy topping. The contrast between the tart berries and sweet crumble is utterly satisfying. Add a splash of cream for the ultimate comfort pudding experience.
9. Affogato With A Twist
The Italian classic simplified! Scoop vanilla ice cream into a coffee cup, then pour over a shot of hot espresso. The ice cream melts slightly, creating a dreamy creamy coffee pudding.
Add a twist with a sprinkle of crushed amaretti biscuits or a dash of Amaretto liqueur. This sophisticated treat takes mere seconds to prepare but feels wonderfully indulgent and grown-up.
10. Microwave Sticky Toffee Pudding
Mix dates, flour, butter, sugar, egg and bicarbonate of soda in a mug. Microwave for 90 seconds while you make a quick toffee sauce with butter, cream and brown sugar.
Pour the warm sauce over your freshly cooked pudding. The dates give this classic British dessert its distinctive sticky sweetness. Each spoonful delivers comforting warmth and caramel richness that soothes the soul.
11. Instant Eton Mess
Crush a meringue nest into a glass. Layer with Greek yoghurt (or whipped cream if you're feeling decadent) and fresh berries or fruit compote.
The beauty of Eton Mess is its rustic appearance – no precision required! The combination of crunchy meringue, creamy yoghurt and sharp berries creates a delightful textural experience. A sprig of mint makes it look extra special.
12. Peanut Butter Mug Cookie
Stir together peanut butter, sugar, an egg yolk and a pinch of salt. Microwave for 45 seconds for the ultimate chewy cookie experience.
The edge cooks to perfection while the centre remains deliciously gooey. Add chocolate chips for extra indulgence. This protein-packed treat satisfies sweet cravings and hunger pangs simultaneously – perfect for late-night snacking!
