Add festive treats to your holiday menu! Our collection of Easter desserts includes everything from timeless favorites and low-prep bars to elaborate cakes and vibrant fruit tarts.
71 Easter Desserts for a Sweet Spring Celebration
Updated on Feb. 12, 2025
1/71
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A pleasingly moist cake, this treat is the one I requested my mom to make each year for my birthday. It's dotted with sweet carrots and a hint of cinnamon. The fluffy buttery frosting is scrumptious with chopped walnuts. One piece of this carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is never enough—it's better than all the other carrot cakes I've tried! —Kim Orr, West Grove, Pennsylvania
This tender, flavorful carrot cake is a true classic with a moist, tender crumb and a light spice flavor. Make two round layers for a beautiful stacked assembly, or bake it in a 13×9-inch pan instead for easy slicing and snacking.
2/71
Easter Nest Torte
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
In this delectable dessert, a luscious cake layer nestles rich mousse and chocolate “twigs” to form a nest. Your guests won’t be able to get enough of this unique Easter cake recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Make this Easter nest torte when you want to finish off an incredible Easter meal with a stunning dessert. This impressive cake features plenty of chocolate and is entirely edible. The “nest” is made via a clever melted chocolate trick!
3/71
Raspberry Lemon Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Want a change from chocolate cake? Try this elegant lemon raspberry cake packed with refreshing citrus flavor in the cake, the homemade lemon curd and the creamy frosting. The recipe won a blue ribbon at the Alaska State Fair, and it's definitely a winner with me. —Shirley Warren, Thiensville, Wisconsin
Celebrate springtime with a combination of lemon and raspberry flavors. This vibrant cake is stacked with three lemon-flavored cake layers separated by raspberry jam and topped with lemon curd. A dreamy cream cheese frosting is definitely the icing on the cake.
4/71
Easter Meringue Cups
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These crunchy meringue shells with a lemon curd filling will make guests stop to ooh and aah at your dessert table. Topped with fresh fruit, the treats are especially pretty when served with a spring meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Easy yet impressive is the perfect type of dessert for Easter. Whip egg whites to prep the little meringue nests ahead of time. When it’s time to serve, all you have to do is top the meringue with lemon curd and fresh fruit.
5/71
Hippity Hop Bunny Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
2 hours 30 min
Servings
20 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This cute, festive cake will have your guests hopping with happiness! Make the cake ahead and add the decorations close to its debut at your party or special occasion. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Invite the Easter bunny to your dinner party by making this Easter bunny-shaped recipe. This showstopping cake features orange zest and an orange curd filling. Once you assemble and frost the cake, create the bunny face with melted chocolate, white candy coating, coarse sugar and jelly beans.
6/71
Marshmallow Easter Eggs
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been making these wonderful marshmallow Easter eggs for years. These candies are a big hit with marshmallow lovers. —Betty Claycomb, Alverton, Pennsylvania
This is a creative make-ahead spring dessert you can have fun with. Prep your own egg-shaped marshmallows and dip them in a chocolate candy coating. Get creative decorating each egg with melted candy coating disks in a variety of colors.
7/71
Lime Divine Tarts
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
The bright citrus fruit is full of flavor, so why not showcase limes at your next holiday party? These cute cups are impressive but easy to make. —Ann Yri, Lewisville, Texas
For a zingy springtime flavor, look to lime. You can prep these little tarts with a cream cheese-based tart shell and a lime curd filling in just 30 minutes. Keep them in the fridge until it’s time to serve dessert.
8/71
Lamb Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandmother started the tradition of making this molded Easter lamb cake when I was little. We continue to make it every Easter. The memory is so special that I keep the lamb mold in my kitchen next to my cookbooks as a decoration. Make sure to grease and flour the mold really well so that the cake does not stick. —Debra Waggoner, Grand Island, Nebraska
Let a lamb-shaped cake pan do all the work for you with this Easter dessert. Bake a cake from scratch or use a boxed white cake mix and top it with cream cheese frosting. Use shredded coconut, sprinkles and egg-shaped candies to decorate the sweetest little lamb.
9/71
Layered Sherbet Dessert
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Macaroons, pecans and layers of fruity sherbet combine in this beautiful, special dessert. Try garnishing the cake with fresh strawberries, and just listen to folks ooh and aah when you bring this in! —Kathryn Dunn, Axton, Virginia
This colorful treat is sure to impress. A base of crumbled coconut macaroon cookies is layered with raspberry, lime and orange sherbet. Once set in the freezer, the most delicious make-ahead ice cream cake will be ready to serve.
10/71
Bunny Bark
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
30 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids love to help make this adorable bunny bark every year for Easter. Swirling the candy with festive colors is their favorite part. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Look no further than this easy white chocolate bark for an Easter dessert made in a pinch. All you have to do is melt white candy disks, add food coloring and spread the melted chocolate into a pan. Top it with jelly beans, sprinkles or any other Easter candies. Break the bark into pieces for a sweet end to your Easter meal, or package it up in little bags to send home with your dinner guests.
11/71
Peter Rabbit Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
No bunny will be able to resist a slice of this adorable dessert. Baked and decorated ahead of time, the coconut-topped cake makes an eye-catching finale to any Easter feast. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Putting together an adorably decorated cake is simpler than you might think, and it all starts with two baked cake rounds. Assemble this charming Peter Rabbit cake with frosting, shredded coconut, licorice and jelly beans to be the star of your Easter table.
12/71
Hot Cross Buns
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
On Easter morning, our family always looked forward to a breakfast of dyed hard-boiled eggs and Mom's hot cross buns. I still serve these for special brunches or buffets. —Barbara Jean Lull, Fullerton, California
These light and fluffy rolls are an Easter tradition for many. This lightly spiced hot cross buns recipe features currants and raisins, and it makes over two dozen buns, so you’ll have plenty for a crowd.
13/71
Sour Cream Sugar Cookies
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
about 4-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I make these cookies for my family and our neighbors. The treats stay soft for at least a week, and they look so pretty frosted with bright colors. —Carolyn Walton, Smoot, Wyoming
The secret ingredient for incredibly soft and tender cookies is sour cream. Whip up a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies and decorate them with pretty pastel icing for the holiday.
14/71
Lemon Cheesecake Recipe
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Light and creamy, this lemon cheesecake recipe is just the thing for a spring or summer day. —Bonnie Jost, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Lemon is the perfect springtime flavor, so why not incorporate it into cheesecake for a vibrant dessert? You can prep this cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and lemon filling ahead of time, then let it chill in the fridge overnight before your celebratory dinner.
15/71
Easter Basket Cupcakes
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
40 min
Servings
1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These cute cupcakes with their mild orange flavor are fun to dress up for Easter. As we raised four sons and a daughter, I prepared many, many school lunches and often added these springtime treats. —Julie Johnston, Shaunavon, Saskatchewan
With just a piece of licorice, shredded coconut and candy eggs, you can transform a simple cupcake into the cutest Easter basket. Prep the cupcake recipe included for a cake with a touch of orange or use your favorite boxed yellow cake mix instead.
16/71
Berry Tarts
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
50 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Bring spring flavors together in these delectable miniature tarts. Raspberries and blueberries both work well with the whipped cream and lemon curd mixture—or choose your favorite berries instead. These sweet treats are great for an afternoon tea, a brunch or a spring holiday celebration. —Mary J. Walters, Westerville, Ohio
Fresh berries have a place at every spring table, and these little berry tarts are dressed up beautifully for Easter. Prep them in just 20 minutes with pie dough, fresh or frozen berries, and a whipped lemon topping.
17/71
Raspberry Mousse
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This raspberry mousse recipe guarantees a creamy, smooth finale to any spring or summer meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
You can prep this vibrant raspberry mousse with just six ingredients. Make the individual cups ahead of time and leave them in the refrigerator for easy serving when it comes time for dessert.
18/71
Hummingbird Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
14 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This impressive hummingbird cake is my dad’s favorite, so I always make it for his birthday. It makes a memorable dessert for any celebration. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
With banana, cinnamon, walnuts and pineapple all in one tender bite, a slice of hummingbird cake is hard to beat. The three-layer cake provides plenty of servings for Easter dessert, and you can easily freeze the leftovers to enjoy at a later date.
19/71
Berry Trifle
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
25 min
Servings
14 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This berry trifle is a delicious salute to warmer weather! I usually serve it during the summer when fresh berries are bountiful, but you can also prepare it with frozen cherries and light cherry pie filling during cooler months. —Brenda Paine, North Syracuse, New York
If you’re short on time, take a semi-homemade shortcut. This trifle features a mixture of already-baked angel food cake, a cream filling, and plenty of fresh blackberries, raspberries and blueberries to dress it up for springtime.
20/71
Rhubarb Tart
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
50 min
Servings
2 tarts (8 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
The rhubarb flavor in this tart balances nicely with the honey and amaretto. The mascarpone cheese makes it rich and creamy. Sometimes I'll even double the rhubarb for a really sumptuous tart. —Ellen Riley, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Nothing says spring quite like a rhubarb dessert. An excellent way to feature this seasonal ingredient? Use fresh rhubarb with mascarpone cheese and puff pastry for a flaky treat full of flavor.
21/71
Easter Sugar Cookies
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Cream cheese contributes to the rich taste of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies. They have such nice flavor that you can skip the frosting and just sprinkle them with colored sugar if you like. —Julie Brunette, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Sugar cookies are a wonderful addition to any holiday table. And you can prep and bake them in just 25 minutes! Let your creativity flow as you decorate them with plenty of pretty colors and sprinkles.
22/71
Peeps Sunflower Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The inspiration for this cake came from one of my favorite flowers, the sunflower. The yellow Peeps make eye-catching flower petals, and I carefully place chocolate chips in a circular pattern to resemble the seeds in the middle of the bloom. This cake is easy, but it looks quite impressive. —Bethany Eledge, Cleveland, Tennessee
Put Peeps to good use with this clever cake design that celebrates spring. Bake and frost a cake, then use yellow Peeps and chocolate chips to create a blooming sunflower.
23/71
Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This gluten-free chocolate cake is a yummy treat that everyone can enjoy. Sometimes I stir in gluten-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts for variety. —Nichele McCague, Poway, California
Hoping to serve a delicious chocolate cake but need it to be gluten-free? It’s easier than you think. Prep this cake in just 20 minutes. Once it has baked and cooled, dust the top with confectioners’ sugar or drizzle it with a homemade caramel sauce.
24/71
Broken Glass Jell-O
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
15 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When it’s cut into squares, this colorful dessert looks just like stained-glass windows. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the lovely creamy topping. —Kathy Crow, Cordova, Alaska
If your Easter menu is all about color, add this dessert to the list. Prep and chill multiple flavors of gelatin, cut the gelatin into cubes and mix the cubes with a whipped topping. Every bite is sure to impress.
25/71
White Chocolate Easter Egg Candies
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 2 dozen (1-1/2 pounds)
From the Recipe Creator:
Candymaking can be easy! Have your kids help roll the candies in sprinkles, colored sugar or jimmies. Then, store the candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
While some candymaking can be a bit daunting, these little white chocolate Easter eggs couldn’t be simpler. Mix melted white chocolate chips with cream cheese to form the eggs, and roll each in colored sugar or sprinkles. Once done, you’ll have plenty of festive chocolates to fill a candy dish or garnish a larger dessert.
26/71
Limoncello Tiramisu
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We love everything about this wonderful dessert—from the light lemon flavor and creamy mascarpone to the crunchy, crushed macaroons on top. We think you'll enjoy it too. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Try a twist on traditional tiramisu with this vibrant lemon option. Ladyfingers are layered with a mascarpone cream filling and lemon curd for a flavorful springtime dessert.
27/71
Key Lime Bread
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
2 loaves (16 pieces each)
From the Recipe Creator:
I first tried this deliciously different bread at a friend's house, and she graciously shared the recipe with me. It's so easy to make and it tastes absolutely yummy! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
It takes only 15 minutes to prepare this soft quick bread with a zingy key lime glaze on top. Serve slices as-is or pair a slice with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
28/71
Baklava
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Baklava is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry made with flaky phyllo dough, chopped nuts and sweet honey. This dessert is very rich, so one pan goes a long way. —Judy Losecco, Buffalo, New York
Baklava is a unique sweet and flaky baked treat. To make this classic phyllo dough recipe, assemble the dough with a spiced sugar mixture and then brush it with a citrus zest syrup right when it comes out of the oven.
29/71
Strawberry Trifle
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I won first prize in a dairy recipe contest with this tasty strawberry trifle. You can double the recipe and make two for large groups. —Norma Steiner, Monroe, Wisconsin
Make fresh strawberries the star of the show with this quick and easy trifle recipe. Layer angel food cake with a creamy orange zest filling and plenty of berries for a lovely light dessert.
30/71
Lemon Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This citrusy cake with a luscious cream cheese frosting will garner plenty of applause. The flavor, a duet of sweet and tangy notes, really sings. —Summer Goddard, Springfield, Virginia
If you love lemon, this layer cake recipe is the ideal fit. Even better? There are four layers instead of just two, which means even more lemon cream cheese frosting and festive flavor.
31/71
Elegant Fresh Berry Tart
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
55 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This elegant tart was my first original creation. If you use different fresh fruits, adjust the simple syrup flavor to match. —Denise Nakamoto, Elk Grove, California
Berries belong on your Easter table, and this is a great way to show them off. Bake a crust in a fluted tart pan and spread a simple cream cheese filling on top. Then, get creative by arranging plenty of fresh fruit to finish the design for a beautiful dessert.
32/71
Easter Bunny Treats
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Our whole family has fun making these bunny-riffic treats together. They are just so cute! —Holly Jost, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Everyone in the family will enjoy prepping, and eating, this dessert. All you need are marshmallows and frosting to make festive little bunnies for Easter.
33/71
Contest-Winning Rhubarb Meringue Pie
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband’s grandmother was an excellent cook, but she didn’t always share her secrets. Luckily, we have her rhubarb pie recipe. I added one of my favorite crusts and a never-fail meringue. —Elaine Sampson, Colesburg, Iowa
With a flaky crust, a fresh rhubarb filling and mile-high meringue, this pie is sure to please. Prep it the day ahead of time so you’re ready to go with a beautifully colored dessert.
34/71
Easy Cheesecake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a delicious classic cheesecake that tastes great alone or with any number of garnishes. Use this basic recipe as a palette for your creativity! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Hoping for a comforting classic? No need to reinvent the wheel: Make an easy homemade cheesecake with a graham cracker crust. When it’s time to slice and serve the dessert, top it with raspberry sauce, lemon curd or a drizzle of chocolate.
35/71
Bird Nests
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a fun, kid-friendly recipe I pulled together a few years ago. My kids love helping me make these cute treats. —Jessica Boivin, Nekoosa, Wisconsin
Embrace spring and serve adorable treats to match the occasion. These easy bird nests require just white baking chips and pretzel sticks to form the base. Then, top the nests with Peeps marshmallows and your favorite candy eggs.
36/71
Strawberry Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Every year I make this special strawberry jam cake for the Relay for Life cake raffle. It has raised lots of money for a good cause. —Tammy Urbina, Warner Robins, Georgia
Match Easter’s pastel color palette with this pretty-in-pink strawberry cake. It’s made with plenty of fresh strawberries and stacked with strawberry jam and a dreamy strawberry cream cheese frosting.
37/71
Lemon Mousse
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic simple lemon mousse recipe is the refreshing dessert you need. Serve it with fresh fruit or eat it alone. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
If you’re short on prep time, this lemon mousse will save the day. Everything is whisked together in a saucepan and cooked until the mixture thickens. Serve it in individual dishes and garnish each serving with whipped cream, a sprinkle of graham crackers or crushed macaroons.
38/71
Brandied Apricot Tart
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Canned apricots make this golden, buttery tart a wonderful option any time of the year. I brush the apricots with preserves and brandy, then sprinkle on almonds for a bit of crunch. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Apricot recipes are perfect for Easter because apricots are in season in late spring. This tart, featuring a buttery crust and sliced apricots brushed with a brandy syrup, is an impressive dish.
39/71
Coconut Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this coconut cake recipe in a newspaper many years ago and modified it to suit my taste. This is my all-time favorite cake, and my family and friends absolutely love it. —Lynne Bassler, Indiana, Pennsylvania
Coconut is a classic ingredient for Easter, especially as it is used in so many decorative ways to look like grass or a lamb’s wool on treats. Embrace the flavor and texture of this ingredient by baking a three-layer coconut cake with a creamy coconut frosting.
40/71
Strawberry Shortcake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I grew up helping my mom make a lot in our farmhouse kitchen, including strawberry shortcakes, roasts, soups and pies. This sunny strawberry shortcake recipe brings back memories of family summers on the farm. —Janet Becker, Anacortes, Washington
With simple cake layers, plenty of whipped cream and juicy strawberries, strawberry shortcake is a lovely addition to any celebration. Even better? You can have this strawberry dessert on the table in under an hour.
41/71
Springtime Beignets & Berries
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
50 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I've always loved beignets, but I never thought I could make them myself. Turns out they're easy! Sometimes I'll even make a quick berry whipped cream and pipe it inside for a fun surprise. —Kathi Hemmer, Grand Junction, Colorado
A restaurant or bakery favorite, beignets can also be made at home. For an Easter-worthy dessert, prep and fry plenty of these little pillows of dough and dust them with confectioners’ sugar. Serve them on a platter with fresh berries and whipped cream.
42/71
Bird's Nest Treats
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I make this bird's nest recipe in the spring when the birds are starting to build their own nests. The treats are so easy to make and disappear fast. —Pam Painter, Poseyville, Indiana
Pair chocolate and peanut butter for a great make-ahead dessert. And what is the clever secret ingredient for giving these adorable bird’s nest treats texture and crunch? Chow mein noodles!
43/71
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I make these banana bars with cream cheese frosting whenever I have ripe bananas on hand, and then I store them in the freezer to share later. With a creamy frosting and big banana flavor, this treat is a real crowd-pleaser. —Debbie Knight, Marion, Iowa
If you have ripe bananas on hand, make these easy banana bars. The moist cake layer is baked in a sheet pan and topped with a wonderful cream cheese frosting. Dress them up with toasted coconut or walnuts before serving.
44/71
Audrey's Lemon Meringue Bars
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
In our backyard resides a prolific lemon tree. We are forever trying to find new ways to incorporate these lovely yellow fruits into our culinary endeavors so that none go to waste. My daughter Audrey knows my love of all things sweet and decided to test her baking skill by combining two of my lemony favorites: lemon bars and lemon meringue pie. After several intense hours in the kitchen, these delicious bars were born. —Monica Fearnside, Rancho Palos Verdes, California
For a dessert that’s easier to make than pie, look to these lemon meringue bars. Prep a simple crust, top it with a lemon filling and spread plenty of luscious meringue over the top.
45/71
Rhubarb Crumble Ice Cream
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
35 min
Servings
1-1/2 quarts
From the Recipe Creator:
This rhubarb crumble ice cream combines two of my favorite desserts into one fantastic creation! If you close your eyes, it actually tastes as if you're taking a bite of fresh rhubarb crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Throw this into a waffle cone and enjoy a classic treat! —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
If you’re pulling out all the stops for your Easter menu, why not make homemade ice cream for dessert? Fresh rhubarb and oat crumble is a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. Serve it in dishes with crushed waffle cones on top, or pair the ice cream with a slice of pound cake.
46/71
Carrot Spice Thumbprint Cookies
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
5 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Carrot cake is a family favorite, and these delicious cookies with shredded carrots, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, cinnamon and cloves taste very similar to our fave treat. They’re even topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. With each cookie it feels as if you’re eating a piece of carrot cake, but no fork is needed! —Susan Bickta, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
Love the idea of serving carrot cake for Easter, but don’t want to go to the trouble of baking an entire cake? These soft thumbprint cookies harness the flavor of this classic dessert but can be ready to serve in about 45 minutes.
47/71
Lemon Tart
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
45 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Be patient when making the crust for this lemon tart. It will take a few minutes of pulsing for the food processor to work its magic. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Lemon is the star of this Easter dessert, bringing vibrant flavor and a gorgeous yellow hue to the table. Prep a buttery shortbread crust, pour in the lemon filling and bake. It’s quick and easy to make yet looks incredibly impressive.
48/71
Carrot Bundt Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma was very special to me. She had a big country kitchen that was full of wonderful aromas any time we visited. This was one of her prized cake recipes, and it continues to be a favorite from generation to generation. —Denise Strasz, Detroit, Michigan
Carrot cake is a timeless Easter dessert, and this Bundt cake recipe makes things much simpler. There’s no stacking or assembly required with this carrot cake: Simply prep the batter, bake the cake and top it with cream cheese frosting for a moist, flavorful treat.
49/71
Banana Pudding Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to make cakes, and my family loves banana pudding. One day while brainstorming in the kitchen, I came up with this banana pudding cake recipe to combine the two. My family and friends can't get enough of it! If you are pressed for time, you may substitute whipped topping for the homemade sweetened whipped cream. —Tiffany Barbee, Rocky Mount, North Carolina
Transform the flavors of classic banana pudding into a dreamy layer cake. Bake a yellow cake mix, and then assemble it with banana cream pudding filling and swirls of whipped cream frosting for the ultimate treat.
50/71
Easter Egg Cookies
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
40 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother started baking these cookies with me and my eight brothers and sisters when I was a child, and I carried on the tradition with my four youngsters when they were little. Now my children are grown and can make these cookies with their own tots. —Barbara Neuweg, West Point, Iowa
This recipe preps plenty of cookies to display on a platter. The buttery treats are quick to make and then topped with a simple glaze. Decorate the eggs as desired with pretty pastels and sprinkles, and pair the cookies with cups of tea for dessert.
51/71
Kentucky Butter Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this Kentucky butter cake recipe in an old cookbook I bought at a garage sale and couldn’t wait to try it. I knew it had been someone’s favorite because of the well-worn page. —Joan Gertz, Palmetto, Florida
This buttery, fluffy and tender cake is anything but boring. The simple batter is baked in a Bundt pan, and the cake is brushed with a flavorful butter sauce right when it comes out of the oven. It’s the perfect canvas for toppings such as fresh berries and whipped cream, a raspberry sauce or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
52/71
Pineapple Pie
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Creamy pineapple pie is a light and refreshing dessert that's quick to make and impressive to serve. This is one of our favorite ways to complete a summer meal. —Sharon Bickett, Chester, South Carolina
For a sunny yellow dessert, turn to this simple pineapple pie. The quick filling is prepped with canned crushed pineapple and whipped topping and spread into a graham cracker crust for a creamy, dreamy treat. Garnish it with nuts, crushed macaroons or toasted coconut.
53/71
Pecan Pie Bars
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
55 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These pecan pie bars are the perfect little gift. Send your favorite holiday travelers on their way with a package of nutty pecan pie bars to eat when they get home. —Sylvia Ford, Kennett, Missouri
Try a spin on classic pecan pie with these low-prep pie bars. With a simple crust and pecan topping, you’ll have plenty of servings of buttery, chewy pecan pie ready in no time.
54/71
Chocolate Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Years ago, I drove 4-1/2 hours to a cake contest, holding my entry on my lap the whole way. But it paid off. One bite and you'll see why this velvety beauty was named the best chocolate cake recipe and won first prize. —Sandra Johnson, Tioga, Pennsylvania
Satisfy everyone’s chocolate cravings with this special three-layer cake topped with an amazing chocolate frosting. The secret ingredient to making a super moist cake? Sour cream.
55/71
Pound Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
2 hours
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We've always included pound cake on our family menus. Through the years I've tried many recipes, and I can honestly say this million-dollar pound cake is the best! It has a very fine, rich texture that makes it unusually smooth. The texture plus the fantastic flavor make this pound cake a special treat each time we serve it. —George Dunn, Jasper, Texas
Pound cake is perfect for any occasion, and it certainly deserves a place on your Easter menu. Prep the buttery cake and serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream or a dollop of lemon curd.
56/71
Banana Pudding with Cream Cheese
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I blend cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping into instant pudding and then layer it with vanilla wafers and sliced bananas. Served in a pretty glass bowl, this banana pudding with cream cheese makes for a fancy yet fuss-free dessert. —Edna Perry, Rice, Texas
A trifle is sure to be a showstopper, and it can be prepped in just 15 minutes. Use a mixture of vanilla pudding, cream cheese, vanilla wafers and sliced bananas to create this delicious layered treat.
57/71
Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
20 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether I'm hosting friends or sending a plate to work with my husband, these creamy elegant lemon cheesecake bars are always a hit. This is a wonderful make-ahead dessert that easily serves a large group. —Peggy Reddick, Cumming, Georgia
Want a dessert that’s as easy to serve as it is to make? Prep an oat crust, top it with raspberry jam, spread the cheesecake filling and bake. Once the cheesecake squares have cooled, all that’s left to do is slice and serve.
58/71
Surprise Carrot Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A cousin gave me this carrot cake recipe. It’s a wonderful potluck pleaser with its “surprise” cream cheese center. My husband and our two young children love it too! —Lisa Bowen, Little Britian, Ontario
Carrot cake has always been a classic in my house, but this recipe hides a special surprise inside. The cream cheese filling makes it an even better celebratory dessert.
59/71
Strawberry-Rhubarb Cobbler
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom's yummy cobbler is a wonderful finale to any meal. This family favorite is sweet and tart, chock-full of berries and rhubarb, and the thick crust is so easy to make. —Susan Emery, Everett, Washington
It’s hard to beat the ease of a delicious cobbler, and this strawberry-rhubarb version is packed with fruity flavor. Pair sliced rhubarb and strawberries with a golden crust, and serve the dessert warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
60/71
Coconut Nests
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
20 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for an Easter activity that kids will enjoy assembling and eating? Try these sweet bird's nest cookies. They are a snap to make and call for just a few ingredients. —Tonya Hamrick, Wallace, West Virginia
For this easy Easter dessert, you’ll need only melted white candy coating and shredded coconut. Form adorable little nests and top them with jelly beans or chocolate candy eggs.
61/71
Banana Cream Pie
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Homemade banana cream pie is my mom’s specialty, and this dreamy dessert has a wonderful banana flavor. It looks so pretty, and it cuts easily too. —Jodi Grable, Springfield, Missouri
With a creamy custard filling and plenty of sliced bananas, banana cream pie is a classic on any dessert menu. Prep it ahead of your Easter meal and refrigerate it overnight. When it’s time to serve, add store-bought or homemade whipped cream on top for the perfect slice.
62/71
White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
As a dairy farmer’s wife, I have experience making cheesecake. In fact, most anything containing milk products is tasty in my book. If I’m out of cream cheese, it’s time to go to the grocery store! —Wendy Barkman, Breezewood, Pennsylvania
Transform a plain cheesecake with just two ingredients, raspberry jam and white chocolate chips, to make a celebration-worthy treat. Serve the cheesecake as is or enhance it even further by adding whipped cream and a dusting of toasted coconut.
63/71
Bunny Cinnamon Rolls
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A tube of cinnamon roll dough and a little imagination make these adorable bunnies almost too cute to eat! They’re sure to appeal to “somebunny” at your house this Easter. —Jenni Sharp, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
With just a tube of cinnamon rolls and little candies, you can put together the most adorable treat for your Easter table. The key is to shape the cinnamon roll dough into little bunnies before baking. Then top them with the included icing or add color to homemade cream cheese frosting to match your festive color palette.
64/71
Dirt Cake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
20 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom used to serve this yummy dessert, and I just loved it. It's so fun to eat and a snap to make. Add some gummy worms on top for the kids if you'd like. —Kristi Linton, Bay City, Michigan
Dirt cake is a classic dessert for any occasion, and you’ll need only seven ingredients to put it together. Incorporate decorations such as candy eggs, shredded coconut and Peeps to dish up comfort food after Easter dinner.
65/71
Easter Basket Cupcakes
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
55 min
Servings
2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother and I would make these when I was growing up, and I had just as much fun sharing the same experience with my own children when they were young. —Kathy Kittell, Lenexa, Kansas
Make cupcakes into the cutest Easter baskets with this easy recipe. The cupcakes are made with flavorful mix-ins such as carrots, walnuts and coconut, then topped with an orange zest cream cheese frosting. Use a variety of candies to make them look like baskets with little bunnies or jelly beans tucked inside.
66/71
Peanut Butter Eggs
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
16 eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
Get the kids involved in making these chocolate and peanut buttery treats. They're well worth the sticky fingers! —Mary Joyce Johnson, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania
Peanut butter cups are a favorite homemade treat of mine, especially because you need only a handful of ingredients to make quite a few. Get them ready for Easter by forming the peanut butter mixture into egg shapes before dunking them in chocolate.
67/71
Decorative Easter Egg
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
1 decorative egg
From the Recipe Creator:
Our kitchen staff made this egg using a basic mold and piped icing. For additional holiday appeal, they filled the confection with green coconut grass and a purchased lamb figurine. If you have a bit of cake-decorating experience, you can create icing roses on top of the egg. Haven’t ever made roses? For an easier project, look for ready-made sugar flowers in the baking aisle of the grocery store. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Display a showstopping dessert on the table with this sugar-molded treat. Most everything, from the coconut grass to the jelly beans to the frosting flowers, is edible.
68/71
Brownie Trifle
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
20 servings (1 cup each)
From the Recipe Creator:
This rich, tempting peanut butter brownie trifle feeds a crowd and features the ever-popular combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Try this dessert for your next get-together. —Nancy Foust, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania
Use a shortcut for this easy-to-prep dessert by baking a boxed brownie mix. The chopped brownies are then layered with pudding, peanut butter and mini peanut butter cups. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is perfect for any occasion.
69/71
Key Lime Cream Pie
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
40 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I am very proud of this luscious no-bake beauty. It's so cool and refreshing—perfect for any potluck or get-together. Wherever I take this pie, it quickly disappears and everyone asks for the recipe. —Shirley Rickis, Lady Lake, Florida
There’s vibrant flavor in every bite of this fluffy key lime pie. Make it with a shortbread crust, or try another type of crumb crust such as a graham cracker crust.
70/71
Easter Cake Pops
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Make these Easter egg cake pops the star of your holiday dessert table. Decorate them with pastel sprinkles and candies for a festive look. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
These cute treats take quite a bit of assembly, but the prep work is worth it. Mix together cake crumbs and frosting to form the egg shapes, and melt a variety of candy wafers for the coating. Decorate your Easter eggs ahead of time or turn decorating them into an activity that the whole family will love.
71/71
Coconut Cheesecake
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
2 hours 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Coconut lovers, rejoice! We’ve taken this classic dessert to the next level by incorporating coconut into every layer—the crust, filling and topping. Our coconut cheesecake recipe pulls out all the stops with ingredients, using coconut milk, coconut extract, shredded coconut and toasted coconut. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Upgrade a traditional cheesecake with festive coconut for wonderful flavor. What makes it even better is that you can prep this cheesecake ahead of time so it’s ready to serve from the fridge.
Easter Desserts FAQ
What are the most traditional Easter desserts?
Easter desserts celebrate spring in many delicious ways, and all kinds of desserts have made an appearance on tables for decades. Traditional desserts like carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and a decorated Easter bunny cake are great options, along with chocolate Easter eggs, hot cross buns, and desserts with lemon, strawberries and other vibrant spring fruits.
What is the best cake for Easter dinner?
Carrot cake is a popular Easter treat, along with a lovely lemon cake or strawberry cake. While you can certainly bake a round cake, it’s also quite popular to bake a bunny-shaped cake or lamb-shaped cake for a festive celebration.
How can I bake make-ahead desserts for Easter?
Many desserts can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container either in the refrigerator or at room temperature. A rhubarb strawberry cobbler can be reheated after dinner, and a white chocolate raspberry cheesecake can be kept in the fridge. You can make meringue cups ahead of time and quickly top them with lemon curd and fruit before serving, or pull out a container of Easter sugar cookies to finish off a great holiday meal. Prep the dessert ahead of time so you can focus on celebrating with family on Easter day!
