
3 No-Bake Desserts You’ll Want to Try Today
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1. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
History: A crowd-pleasing treat in many American kitchens, chocolate peanut butter bars have roots in classic no-bake desserts. The combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate is irresistible, making this dessert a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers, crushed)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Shape the Crust: Press the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to pack it down firmly and evenly.
Make the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Assemble the Bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter crust, spreading it into an even layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for 2 hours or until the bars are firm.
Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Cooking time: 2 hours (chilling time)
Heat: None
Tip: For a crunchier texture, sprinkle some chopped peanuts over the chocolate layer before chilling.
2. No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
History: No-bake cheesecake is a modern twist on the classic, offering a creamy and indulgent dessert without the need for baking. These cheesecake bites are a fun, bite-sized way to enjoy this creamy dessert.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup strawberry or raspberry jam (optional for topping)
Instructions:
Make the Crust: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
Form the Base: Using your hands, form small balls of the graham cracker mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and press them into the bottom of mini muffin tins or a silicone mold. Press down firmly to form a crust.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Assemble the Bites: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crusts. Smooth out the tops with a spatula.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 3 hours or until firm. Before serving, top with a dollop of strawberry or raspberry jam for extra flavor.
Cooking time: 3 hours (chilling time)
Heat: None
Tip: For a more decadent version, add a layer of melted chocolate between the crust and the cheesecake filling.
3. No-Bake Coconut Macaroons
History: These chewy coconut macaroons are a classic treat in many cultures, especially popular around holidays like Easter and Passover. Their simple ingredients make them a perfect go-to when you need something sweet without the oven.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
Prepare the Coconut Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is sticky and well-combined.
Shape the Macaroons: Use a spoon to scoop out portions of the coconut mixture and roll them into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place the macaroons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
Chill the Macaroons: Refrigerate the macaroons for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm enough to hold their shape.
Add the Chocolate Drizzle (optional): Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the chilled macaroons.
Serve: Enjoy the macaroons cold, straight from the fridge.
Cooking time: 2 hours (chilling time)
Heat: None
Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the coconut mixture.