These adorable desserts in a cup are perfect for individual servings! From mug cakes to parfaits to mini-trifles, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit with everyone. As much as I love a big slice of cake, when that sweet craving strikes, sometimes all you need is a single-serve dessert to satisfy it.
1.Coconut Mug Cake
This coconut cake is a coconut lover’s dream, loaded with shredded coconut in the batter and a hint of coconut extract for extra flavor. Want to keep it dairy-free?
Just swap in some coconut milk–it works like a charm. And why stop there? Trade traditional whipped cream for whipped coconut cream to amp up the coconut vibe while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Pro tip: Toast a big batch of coconut at once and store it in an airtight container for future baking adventures. Talk about a time-saver!
2.Rainbow Fruit Salad Cups
These are perfect for serving a crowd–just use disposable cups and make as many as you need. Plus, they’re super easy to customize. I love adding a boozy twist with syrup!
Grand Marnier brings a rich orange and vanilla flavor, while Bacardi offers a lighter touch. It’s a fun way to elevate your drink game.
3.Strawberry Eton Mess
Let’s be real–making meringues from scratch isn’t always necessary. Store-bought meringues are a game-changer, and they’re perfect for this recipe.
Plus, they keep nicely in your cupboard, so you can whip this up whenever the mood strikes. Talk about convenience!
4.No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Parfait
Using pound cake is a brilliant shortcut that slashes prep time, and don’t worry–nobody will guess it’s store-bought once it’s smothered in berries.
The berry sauce is totally up to you: blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are my go-to mix, but cherries would be a fantastic addition if you’re feeling it. The result?
A vibrant medley of colors that pops against the creamy white cheesecake filling. It’s as stunning as it is delicious!
5.Strawberry Jell-O Parfait Cups
Turn an ordinary egg carton into an extraordinary dessert with these colorful cups! They’re easy to make and add a fun twist to any gathering.
Here’s how it works: Pour your prepared Jell-O mix into the carton cups while they’re tilted. The carton keeps everything steady and makes it simple to adjust the angle for that perfect pour.
Once set, stand the cups upright and fill them with a creamy faux-cheesecake filling. The result? A dessert that’s as vibrant as it is delicious–perfect for impressing your guests!
6.Strawberry Shortcake Trifles
Sure, a big glass dish full of sponge, fruits, and cream is impressive, but what if you’re not looking to serve a crowd? I love using mason jars to make individual desserts.
They’re adorable and showcase the layers perfectly. Plus, mason jars are pretty inexpensive and easy to find online or in larger supermarkets. If you don’t have mason jars, no worries!
These can also be made in wine glasses.
7.Pina Colada Pudding Cups
Tropical Coconut Pudding Parfaits These adorable parfaits are as fun for kids as they are for adults! Layer them in martini glasses for a fancy touch that’s perfect for any party.
The secret to their creamy goodness? Coconut milk, which gives the pudding a rich, velvety texture. Stir in some crushed pineapple for a burst of sweet, fruity flavor.
Don’t forget to sprinkle toasted coconut on top for that extra tropical vibe. And let’s not overlook the tiny umbrellas–because everything’s better with a mini umbrella on top!
8.Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is the epitome of effortless elegance in the world of desserts. Its clean, white appearance, adorned only with delicate vanilla flakes, offers a refined simplicity.
Serving it in glasses eliminates the worry of it collapsing, making it as stress-free as it is stunning.
For those who crave a pop of color, a drizzle of vibrant fruit compote or rich chocolate ganache adds a delightful contrast.
Whether you prefer it pure and simple or dressed up, panna cotta delivers an elegant dessert experience with minimal fuss.
9.Mango Float Supreme in a Cup
This mango treat is a dream come true–sweet, creamy, and bursting with fruity flavor. The mango soft-serve is so irresistible, you might find yourself sneaking extra scoops before it even makes it to the bowl.
Layered with crunchy graham cracker crumbs and a drizzle of sweet mango sauce, it’s almost too good to be true.
Top it off with some toasted coconut flakes and a tiny umbrella, and you’ve got a tropical getaway in a bowl.
10.Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Cups
Pretzels are the ultimate snack – salty, crunchy, and a fantastic swap for graham crackers or Oreos. They add a boost to any recipe and are probably sitting in your pantry right now.
The best part? This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to mix and match with blueberries or mixed berries for a delicious twist!
11.Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake
This mug cake is the ultimate indulgence, blending the richness of chocolate with the creaminess of peanut butter. It’s a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little caramel on top. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups for added flavor and texture.
It’s your chance to go all-in on a chocolate-peanut butter dream!
12.Copycat Chick-fil-A Milkshake (Cookies & Cream)
This cookies and cream treat has won me over time and time again–over a dozen times, to be exact! There’s just something magical about the combination of cookies and cream.
To make it happen, you’ll need a trusty blender and some top-notch ice cream. Here’s a tip: when blending the cookies, aim for fine crumbs.
It makes all the difference and keeps them from getting stuck in your straw. The result? A creamy, dreamy delight that’s as easy as it is delicious.
13.Blueberry Mug Muffin
Start your day off right with this warm and sweet treat, perfect for chilly mornings. Fresh blueberries are the star here, though frozen ones work beautifully too. The best part?
It bakes up quickly, so you don’t have to worry about excess liquid. For an extra touch, whip up a simple lemon glaze by mixing lemon juice with a bit of powdered sugar until smooth.
Drizzle it over the top for a bright, tangy finish.
14.Microwave Mug Blondie
Blondies are the ultimate dessert dream–they’re thick, chewy, and packed with caramel and chocolate. This mug cake takes it to the next level.
The brown sugar ensures that perfect chewy texture, while the caramel candies melt into the mix just right.
The white chocolate adds a creamy touch, but feel free to swap it out for dark chocolate chips if that’s your vibe–either way, it’s a win!
15.Banana Bread Muffin in a Mug
This recipe just got a tasty twist! I swapped out the sprinkles for mini-chocolate chips, and honestly, it’s even better this way.
With just five simple ingredients–bananas, vanilla, flour, sugar, and baking powder–you can whip this up in your mug. Mix it all together, pop it in the microwave for 90 seconds, and you’re done!
It’s quick, easy, and totally delicious.
16.Oreo Dirt Pudding Parfaits (No-bake)
Sure, this dessert might need a few more minutes in the microwave than 60 seconds, but it’s totally worth it–and the best part? No baking required!
You can find simple short glasses online or even at the dollar store, and they’re perfect for these dessert cups.
The cream cheese filling gives it a light cheesecake vibe, and feel free to mix and match pudding flavors to your heart’s content. Butterscotch pudding paired with golden Oreos? Absolutely delicious!
17.Root Beer Float
Remember the classic ice cream float from your childhood? It’s time to bring back this simple yet delicious treat!
All you need is a glass of your favorite soda and a scoop of creamy ice cream.
For an extra-special touch, freeze your glass before serving, then top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a cherry. Easy, nostalgic, and perfect for any time of day!
18.Individual No-Bake Cheesecake
This dessert in a cup is pure elegance in every bite. Creamy, classic, and totally divine, it lets the authentic cheesecake flavors take center stage. The best part?
No slicing needed, so there’s no need for gelatin. But here’s a tip: if you’re into something sweeter and denser, try stirring in some melted white chocolate. It takes it to a whole new level!
19.Best Irish Coffee
Irish coffee is the perfect pick-me-up for a chilly evening. The whiskey adds a warm, cozy touch, and using decaf means you can enjoy it without worrying about losing sleep.
Feel free to mix things up with Bailey’s or Tia Maria for a different twist. But here’s the thing–don’t even think about skipping the whipped cream.
It’s the ultimate finishing touch that makes this drink truly special. So go ahead, cozy up, and savor the warmth in every sip!
20.Easy Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet scrumptious apple treat. Thinly slice your apples for a quicker cooking time, or use a batch of microwave-baked apples for convenience.
Either way, layer them up and top with a crisp, golden-brown topping.
For an extra crunchy twist, try baking them in a ramekin and broiling for a minute or two with a sprinkle of brown sugar on top. The result?
A perfectly tender apple base with a caramelized, sweet crunch that’s sure to impress.
21.Chocolate-Caramel Dessert Cups
Instant pudding is a breeze to customize, and this recipe takes it to the next level. Simply stir in some melted chocolate for a creamy, smooth treat. Want more flavor?
Mix in a bit of peanut butter for an extra twist.
When it comes to the crust, graham cracker crumbs are a classic choice with their neutral taste, but if you’re feeling fancy, Oreo crumbs make a fantastic alternative.
This dessert is as easy as it is delicious–perfect for pleasing any crowd!
22.French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Once you try real French hot chocolate, you’ll never go back to the instant stuff. In Paris, hot chocolate isn’t just a drink–it’s an experience.
Made with rich, high-quality chocolate melted into milk and cream, it creates a velvety, thin ganache that’s pure bliss. Every sip is creamy, indulgent, and utterly unforgettable.
Trust us, this is the kind of hot chocolate that will ruin you for anything else!
23.Nutella Crunch Dessert Shooters
Indulge in the ultimate dessert trio: rich Oreo cookies, sinful Nutella mousse, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. This faux-Nutella-cheesecake is so irresistible, you might just want to dig in straight from the bowl.
But trust us, it’s even better when paired with those classic Oreos and a dollop of whipped cream. Here’s a top tip for your next gathering: stock up on disposable shot glasses.
You can find them online or at party-supply stores in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Fill them with a variety of mousses and mini-trifles, and let your guests help themselves.
It’s a fun, easy alternative to slicing up a big cake, and everyone gets their own perfect portion.
24.Cinnamon Roll in a Mug
Let’s be honest–this isn’t your typical, big fluffy cinnamon roll from the mall. There’s no yeast involved, and it doesn’t get baked to caramelize the sugars.
But here’s the thing: when you’re in a hurry, this recipe really delivers. The dough isn’t overly sweet, which I personally love because it gives me room to go wild with the glaze.
Plus, I like to add some extra goodies like chopped nuts and soaked raisins to make it even more special. It’s a simple, no-fuss treat that’s perfect when you need something sweet in a snap.
25.Honeydew Blueberry Lemon Cream Trifle
Fruit Salad in a Cup is a clever way to make sure everyone gets a fair share of all the delicious ingredients.
Unlike a big bowl where some bits might get left behind, these individual cups ensure every bite is perfectly balanced. Plus, you get just the right amount of zesty lemon cream in every mouthful.
It’s a simple, fun, and fair way to enjoy fresh fruit, perfect for any gathering!
26.Brownie in a Mug
Remember those days when a Starbucks was on every corner? Ordering ahead and grabbing a brownie on the go became my go-to ritual. Those rich, chocolatey treats had me hooked!
Now, even though I’m not surrounded by coffee shops anymore, the cravings still come knocking. That’s where this recipe comes in–it’s the perfect fix.
These brownies are everything you’d hope for: warm, fudgy, and packed with chocolate chips. Plus, a dollop of whipped cream on top takes it to the next level.
It’s the ultimate way to satisfy that chocolate craving from the comfort of your own kitchen!
27.Copycat Starbucks Caramel Macchiato
Craving that Starbucks magic but stuck at home? No problem! This homemade version of a caramel frappuccino is here to save the day.
It’s incredibly easy to make and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.
With vanilla syrup for sweetness and caramel for that rich, velvety flavor, you can create your favorite coffeehouse treat without leaving the house.
Use Starbucks blonde coffee if you’re a die-hard fan, or go with your go-to coffee for a personalized touch. Perfect for coffee lovers who want a delicious pick-me-up any time of day.
28.Vanilla Funfetti Mug Cake (Egg and Dairy Free)
This mug cake is a game-changer for including your vegan friends, and the best part? You’d never even guess it’s dairy and egg-free!
I personally love using oat milk for the flavor, but feel free to experiment with almond, coconut, or even regular milk–whatever you prefer. It’s all about making sure everyone can enjoy a delicious treat together.
29.Banoffee Pie Cups
This dessert is my absolute favorite, and for good reason! If you’re like me and have a soft spot for bananas and caramel, you’re in for a treat.
I love making my own dulce de leche in the slow cooker, but store-bought works perfectly too.
While regular caramel is delicious, dulce de leche has that extra thickness that takes this dessert to the next level.
For the crust, any cookie crumbs will do, but let’s be real–chocolate chip cookie crumbs are the way to go. Layer it all together, and you’ve got a dessert that’s pure perfection!
30.Snickerdoodle Mug Cake
Had a bad experience with mug cakes before? Maybe you ended up with a hot, rubbery, overly sweet mess. Worry not–this one’s different! It’s more like a thick, soft cookie in a cup, pure bliss!
Plus, no eggs in sight, so there’s no stress about undercooking. That said, keep an eye on it in 30-second checks since microwaves can vary.
For that perfect cinnamon zing, try layering cinnamon sugar and batter as you fill the mug. It’s a small trick that makes a big difference!
30 Individual Desserts in a Cup
Course: DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalThese adorable desserts in a cup are perfect for individual servings! From mug cakes to parfaits to mini-trifles, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit with everyone. As much as I love a big slice of cake, when that sweet craving strikes, sometimes all you need is a single-serve dessert to satisfy it.
Ingredients
Coconut Mug Cake
Rainbow Fruit Salad Cups
Strawberry Eton Mess
No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Parfait
Strawberry Jell-O Parfait Cups
Strawberry Shortcake Trifles
Pina Colada Pudding Cups
Panna Cotta
Mango Float Supreme in a Cup
Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Cups
Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake
Copycat Chick-fil-A Milkshake (Cookies & Cream)
Blueberry Mug Muffin
Microwave Mug Blondie
Banana Bread Muffin in a Mug
Oreo Dirt Pudding Parfaits (No-bake)
Root Beer Float
Individual No-Bake Cheesecake
Best Irish Coffee
Easy Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug
Chocolate-Caramel Dessert Cups
French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Nutella Crunch Dessert Shooters
Cinnamon Roll in a Mug
Honeydew Blueberry Lemon Cream Trifle
Brownie in a Mug
Copycat Starbucks Caramel Macchiato
Vanilla Funfetti Mug Cake (Egg and Dairy Free)
Banoffee Pie Cups
Snickerdoodle Mug Cake
Directions
- Select your favorite recipe.
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!