10 Easy No Bake Desserts Anyone Can Make
Life’s Too Short to Wait on the Oven
You’ve had those moments—you’re craving something sweet, but the thought of turning on the oven? Nope. Maybe it’s the middle of a heatwave or your oven’s on the fritz. Whatever the reason, you need a fast, simple fix that doesn’t involve preheating. That’s where easy no bake desserts come to the rescue. These treats are fuss-free, satisfying, and often ready in minutes. You don’t need to be a pastry chef. You just need a mixing bowl, a fridge, and a craving for something delicious.
Let’s dive into ten of the easiest, most satisfying no bake desserts that you can whip up without breaking a sweat.
Table of Contents
Why No Bake Desserts Are a Game-Changer
Benefits of No Bake Recipes
- No oven required — perfect for summer or small-space living.
- Quick prep and chill time — most are ready in under 30 minutes.
- Beginner-friendly — ideal if you’re new to the kitchen.
- Fewer dishes — often one bowl or pot is all you need.
When to Make No Bake Desserts
- Hot weather when you want to keep your kitchen cool.
- Dorm living or limited kitchen access.
- Last-minute party or potluck needs.
- Quick after-dinner cravings.
10 Easy No Bake Desserts Anyone Can Make
Each of these recipes is designed for minimal effort and maximum flavor.
1. No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
A childhood classic that’s still irresistible.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups |
| Peanut butter | 1/2 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt butter, sugar, cocoa, and milk over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and oats.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper.
- Let cool and harden.
Tip: Swap in almond or sunflower butter for a twist.
2. No Bake Cheesecake Cups
Creamy, sweet, and perfectly portioned.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Whipped topping | 1 cup |
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Fresh berries | To top |
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in whipped topping.
- Layer graham crumbs in jars or cups.
- Spoon cheesecake mixture on top.
- Chill and top with berries before serving.
3. Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
A crunchy, chewy snack that never gets old.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Rice Krispies | 3 cups |
| Peanut butter | 1/2 cup |
| Honey or syrup | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions
- Melt peanut butter and honey in a pot.
- Stir in vanilla and Rice Krispies.
- Press into a greased pan.
- Cool, slice, and serve.
4. No Bake Lemon Icebox Pie
Bright, tangy, and perfect for summer.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 cup |
| Graham crust | 1 (prepared) |
| Whipped topping | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Mix condensed milk and lemon juice.
- Fold in whipped topping.
- Pour into crust.
- Chill for at least 4 hours.

5. Oreo Cookie Truffles
Rich, bite-sized, and always a hit.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Oreos | 1 package |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup (melted) |
Instructions
- Crush Oreos into fine crumbs.
- Mix with softened cream cheese.
- Roll into balls and chill.
- Dip in melted chocolate.
- Refrigerate until set.
6. No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Jars
Fresh, fruity, and perfectly portable.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Pound cake | 1 loaf (cubed) |
| Strawberries | 2 cups (sliced) |
| Whipped cream | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Layer pound cake, berries, and cream in jars.
- Repeat layers.
- Chill before serving.
7. Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Silky, healthy, and shockingly good.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Ripe avocados | 2 |
| Cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Milk | 2–4 tbsp |
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Chill before serving.
8. No Bake S’mores Bars
Campfire flavor, no fire needed.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Graham crackers | 2 cups (crumbled) |
| Marshmallows | 2 cups |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
- Melt marshmallows and butter.
- Stir in graham and chocolate.
- Press into pan and cool.
9. Banana Pudding Cups
Creamy nostalgia in a cup.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Vanilla pudding | 1 package |
| Bananas | 2 (sliced) |
| Vanilla wafers | 1 cup |
| Whipped cream | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Layer wafers, banana slices, and pudding.
- Top with whipped cream.
- Chill and enjoy.
10. Coconut Macaroons (No Oven Version)
Sweet, chewy, and coconutty.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Shredded coconut | 2 cups |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1/2 can |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients.
- Shape into balls.
- Chill until firm.
Tips for Perfect No Bake Desserts Every Time
Use Fresh Ingredients
No shortcuts here—fresh cream, ripe fruit, and good-quality chocolate make all the difference.
Master the Chill Time
Give your desserts the time they need to set. Most need at least 2–4 hours in the fridge.
Storage & Shelf Life
- Most last up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Store in airtight containers.
- Some, like truffles, can be frozen for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some easy no bake desserts I can make with kids?
Try peanut butter krispie treats or chocolate oatmeal cookies—safe, fun, and no oven needed.
Can I make easy no bake desserts ahead of time?
Absolutely! Most actually taste better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
Are no bake desserts healthier?
They can be, especially those made with oats, fruit, or avocado.
What if I don’t have a fridge or freezer?
Stick with recipes that set at room temp, like coconut macaroons or oatmeal cookies.
Conclusion: Sweet Treats Without the Sweat
Next time a dessert craving strikes, skip the oven. These easy no bake desserts prove that indulgence doesn’t have to come with extra effort. Whether you’re in a hurry, short on space, or just not feeling the bake life, you’ve got delicious options. Try one—or all—and share your favorites with friends.
Ready to make your first no bake masterpiece? Pick a recipe, grab your ingredients, and chill your way to sweet success!
