'Tis the season to embrace all things cozy—steaming soups, hearty casseroles and, of course, warm winter dessert recipes. From molten mocha cake to bread puddings and cobblers, these desserts feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
41 Cozy Winter Dessert Recipes to Warm You Up
Updated on Mar. 28, 2025
1/41
Bread Pudding with Nutmeg
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I always make this bread pudding recipe for my dad on his birthday and on holidays. He says it tastes exactly like the bread pudding with nutmeg he enjoyed as a child. —Donna Powell, Montgomery City, Missouri
Few desserts convey comfort quite like a classic bread pudding. There’s nothing better than digging into a bowl filled with soft cubes of bread soaked in a gently spiced custard. Nutmeg gives this treat a warm and fuzzy finish. This dessert is perfect for a quiet night in or a quick treat with coffee.
2/41
Giant Buckeye Cookie
Total Time
35 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m from Ohio, and we love our buckeye candy! Buckeyes are a delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate, which is exactly what this cookie is. All you need is a box of cake mix, a few common pantry ingredients, and voila—you have a tasty dessert ready for family and friends in under an hour. You can customize it, too, by substituting other mix-ins for the chocolate chips. We serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream. —Arianna Harding, Cincinnati, Ohio
Peanut butter? Yes. Chocolate? Yes. Giant cookies? Yes, yes, yes! Inspired by Ohio’s beloved buckeye candies, this cookie is thick, rich and so simple that you’ll probably never need another recipe. It’s one of those easy winter treats for families—fun to make with kids and even more fun to share (but we won’t blame you if you want to keep it all to yourself).
3/41
Apple Dumplings with Sauce
Total Time
1 hour 50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This warm and comforting apple dumplings recipe is incredible by itself or served with ice cream. You can decorate each dumpling by cutting 1-inch leaves and a 1/2-inch stem from the leftover dough. —Robin Lendon, Cincinnati, Ohio. Here’s our collection of desserts for two to keep you cozy at night.
Apple slices nestled in dough and bathed in a sweet sauce—what’s not to love? Especially when those ingredients are wrapped up into delightful dumplings. They bake up tender, and every bite feels like something grandma would make on a frosty day. And now you can, too!
4/41
Tennessee Peach Pudding
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This out-of-this-world is one of our favorite, easy peach recipes. I was raised in Oklahoma, and we used Elberta peaches right off our trees when we made this outstanding cobbler. —Virginia Crowell, Lyons, Oregon
Peaches might scream “summer,” but this recipe gives them a cold-weather spin. The peaches are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. The soft, cakey layer puffs up around the fruit, creating a cobbler-like shell that cushions each spoonful of warm, peachy goodness.
5/41
Dutch Apple Cake
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I came to Canada from Holland more than 40 years ago. This traditional Dutch recipe is a family favorite and has frequently gone along with me to potluck suppers and other get-togethers. —Elizabeth Peters, Martintown, Ontario
If your idea of comfort is a home filled with the warm scent of spiced apples (along with a hint of sugar and everything nice), this cake is calling your name. The tender cake is studded with apple slices to keep it moist and sweet. This winter dessert recipe is love in a loaf.
6/41
Caramel Custard
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I have enjoyed this simple custard recipe many times, especially after a Tex-Mex meal. In fact, I've made it so often I don't even look at the recipe. See if it doesn't become a regular favorite at your house. — Linda McBride, Austin, Texas
This caramel custard might just be the very definition of a comfort dessert. Caramelizing sugar in a saucepan creates the custard’s golden caramel top, adding just the right sweetness and making every spoonful taste like a gentle hug.
7/41
Cookie Swirl Cobbler
Total Time
45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
An extra-rich chocolate chip cookie dough and crescent roll topping provide a tasty twist on a classic cherry cobbler. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. —Jeanne Holt, St. Paul, Minnesota
This dessert is a mashup of a classic cherry cobbler and a chocolate-studded cookie. It’s as if you took a warm chocolate chip cookie and nestled juicy fruit underneath—ideal for a snowed-in afternoon.
8/41
Gingerbread Cake
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The rich molasses and spice flavor of this old-time dessert is complemented with a buttery caramel sauce.—Joy Sparks, Muskegon, Michigan
The smell of ginger, cinnamon and molasses baking together is basically winter in dessert form. Slice into this cake while it’s still warm, and top it with caramel sauce or whipped cream for the most satisfying forkful.
9/41
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a fun recipe because the chocolate makes it different from traditional bread pudding. It’s a rich, comforting dessert. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Bread pudding is already a top-tier comfort dessert. Add chocolate to the mix, and it becomes gooey and cocoa-rich. It’s ideal for evenings when you’re craving a warm, sweet treat.
10/41
Peach Kuchen
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kuchen is a filling dessert for this German meal. It's not too sweet, and you can use virtually any of your favorite fruits. As a child, I took great pride in arranging the fruit in the pan. We always made this dessert on the same day of the meal, so it would be warm and fresh. A dollop of whipped cream on top was an added treat! -Barbara White, Cross Plains, Wisconsin
Kuchen is a type of German cake that features layers of fruit and creamy custard over a soft crust. Topped with peaches, it feels fresh yet indulgent—spot on for a cold day when you want a sweet taste of sunshine.
11/41
Jumbleberry Crumble
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend brought this delicious, down-home dessert to church and was kind enough to give out the recipe. Everyone enjoyed it so much and just showered her with compliments! It’s especially wonderful served warm or with a dollop of creamy whipped topping. —Mary Ann Dell, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
Making this dessert is a piece of cake. Take your pick of mixed berries—fresh or frozen—then bake them under a buttery topping. The juicy fruit and the warm, cinnamon-sugar crunch will have everyone leaning in for a second helping straight from the baking dish.
12/41
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake
Total Time
45 min
Servings
15 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of the best peach dump cake recipes in the world. It's sweet, tender cake with a beautifully crisp cobbler topping. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, and dessert's golden. —Keri Sparks, Little Elm, Texas
Dump cake recipes are a perfect option when you’re running short on time. Just “dump” (read: layer) the ingredients into your baking dish and let the oven handle the rest. You don’t even need to stir anything, so put down the mixing spoon. With peaches on the bottom and a crispy crust on top, this cake tastes like old-fashioned comfort without the fuss.
13/41
Chocolate Malt Pudding Cake
Total Time
2 hours 25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I make this warm, comforting cake, I chop the malted milk balls by putting them in a bag and pounding them with a rubber mallet. Doing this completely eliminates the mess. —Sarah Skubinna, Cascade, Montana
When it’s too chilly for milkshakes, transform your malted milkshake into a warm, spoonable dessert. It’s cozy and nostalgic, especially when topped with malted milk balls for extra crunch.
14/41
Spiced Upside-Down Apple Pie
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma taught me to make this pie when I was 4. Over the years, I've kept it about the same with just a few changes. Flip it out the second it stops bubbling. The glaze makes it look especially delicious. —Francine Bryson, Pickens, South Carolina
Flip your pie upside down for a fun little twist on a classic apple pie. This version also adds a caramelized layer of pecans on top. The buttery crust underneath perfectly complements the rich, warm flavors.
15/41
Amaretto Cherries with Dumplings
Total Time
8 hours
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
You can't beat the combination of almond flavor with cherries. These light and fluffy dumplings are heavenly. Topped with the sauce and ice cream, it makes for a scrumptious dessert. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Slow-cooking cherries in almond liqueur creates a dreamy, sweet sauce. The dumplings absorb the sauce’s rich flavors as they cook, creating a decadent, fruity dessert.
16/41
Pizookie
Total Time
50 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bake up the ultimate shareable cookie. For variety, swap out the chocolate chips for an equal quantity of M&M's or chocolate chunks. Or go super fancy by mixing the chocolate chips and pecans into the dough, then gently folding in 1-1/2 cups fresh raspberries. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Baked in a skillet, cookie dough develops crispy edges while staying soft in the center. Grab a few spoons (or just one if you don’t want to share) and enjoy it while it’s still warm.
17/41
Pressure-Cooker Molten Mocha Cake
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I first made my decadent chocolate cake, my husband's and daughter's expressions said it all. She says it's one of her "most favorites." Later, I took one of these to our next-door neighbors. Their teenage son, who answered the door, ate the whole thing without telling anyone else about it! —Aimee Fortney, Fairview, Tennessee
This chocolate cake is extra moist with a rich, gooey center. The instant coffee granules add a little pick-me-up, a much-needed boost after a hearty winter meal.
18/41
Pear Crisp
Total Time
50 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Since he’s a livestock truck driver, my husband often starts work early in the morning. This pear crisp recipe will keep him going until breakfast. Our two boys love to have it for dessert and in their school lunches. —Joanne Korevaar, Burgessville, Ontario
If you’ve only tried apple crisp, give pears a shot. They lend a mellow sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp topping. Serve this dessert warm—every bite becomes even more satisfying.
19/41
Raspberry Custard Kuchen
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Back where I grew up in Wisconsin, people have been baking this German treat for generations. We love it for breakfast or as a special dessert. It's no fuss to fix and impressive to serve. —Virginia Arndt, Sequim, Washington
A twist on a classic German kuchen, this sweet-tart custard pie incorporates raspberries into the creamy filling. They offer a bright burst of flavor to the smooth custard, making this an ideal choice for anyone who loves a side of fruit in winter.
20/41
Apple Dumplings with Crescent Rolls
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I received this recipe for baked apple dumplings with Mountain Dew from a friend of mine, then tweaked it to suit my family's tastes. The soda is definitely the secret ingredient in this rich apple dessert. —Chris Shields, Monrovia, Indiana
The combination of crescent roll dough, Granny Smith apples and Mountain Dew soda might sound quirky, but it creates tender dumplings that bake into a sweet delight. Warm out of the oven, these dumplings practically beg for a scoop of ice cream.
21/41
Hot Milk Cake
Total Time
50 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This simple, old-fashioned milk cake tastes so good it will surprise you! As I remember my mom's delicious meals, this dessert was always the perfect ending. Mom always used "a dash of this and dab of that" to come up with what we thought was "the best." —Rosemary Pryor, Pasadena, Maryland
Hot milk cake proves that even the simplest ingredients can create something magical. The batter puffs up into a light, fluffy dessert that tastes great on its own and even better paired with your favorite dessert sauces and toppings.
22/41
Pecan Cobbler
Total Time
50 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn't find a recipe, so I took it upon myself to devise this amazing dessert that combines the ease of a cobbler and the rich flavor of pecan pie. It tastes even better with ice cream or whipped topping. —Willa Kelley, Edmond, Oklahoma
This cobbler captures the same nutty-sweet vibes as pecan pie. The hardest part about this recipe is waiting 30 minutes for the cobbler to cool before grabbing a spoon and watching the caramel goodness dribble over your plate.
23/41
Rice Pudding
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My sisters and I always loved the recipe for rice pudding our grandma made. After she passed away, I took it upon myself to try and find the secret to her rice pudding. It took quite a bit of experimentation, but I finally got it right! And I'm glad to share this easy recipe here. —Margaret DeChant, Newberry, Michigan
Every spoonful of this rice pudding is creamy and gently sweet, making it a comforting treat for any time of the day. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm blanket for your palate.
24/41
Air-Fryer Mocha Pudding Cakes
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These mouthwatering mini cakes make the perfect treat for two. My mom used to make these when I was a little girl. Now I whip them up and pop them in my air fryer for a speedy dessert. —Debora Simmons, Eglon, West Virginia
This list of winter desserts wouldn’t be complete without at least one air-fryer dessert recipe! These personal-sized cakes are moist and full of mocha flavor. Plus, they’re ready in only 30 minutes, thanks to the air fryer’s quick cooking.
25/41
Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
Total Time
3 hours 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
There's nothing better than this comforting bread pudding on a cold, wintry day. The bourbon sauce tastes extravagant, but it's really simple to prepare. The slow cooker does the most of the work for you! —Hope Johnson, Youngwood, Pennsylvania
Yes—you can make bread pudding in a slow cooker! After hours of soaking up the custard, each bite is velvety soft and has a soothing flavor that tastes even better when topped with a boozy sauce.
26/41
Pressure Cooker Apple Comfort
Total Time
42 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When the temperature drops and winter rolls in, it's the perfect time for this warm and satisfying dessert. —Awynne Thurstenson, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Apples plus pressure-cooking equals a tender, spiced treat that comes together in a snap. It’s great on its own or spooned over yogurt or ice cream for an easy dessert.
27/41
Apricot Upside-Down Cake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My Aunt Anne, who is a great cook, gave me a taste of this golden upside-down cake and I couldn't believe how delicious it was. Apricots give it an elegant twist from traditional pineapple versions. —Ruth Ann Stelfox, Raymond, Alberta
There’s something oddly satisfying about upside-down cakes, right? This apricot version is the cozy winter dessert equivalent of a pineapple upside-down cake. Its golden, syrupy finish will brighten even the darkest day.
28/41
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
14 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The combination of mocha and peanut butter will satisfy every sweet tooth at your table. The garnish is a little extra work, but what are special occasions for? —Tammy Bollman, Minatare, Nebraska
Chocolate and peanut butter are always a winning combination. Every forkful of this cake will give you a sweet moment of escape from the cold weather outside.
29/41
Croissant Bread Pudding
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my mother's best recipes! I'm sure your family will be delighted with it too. Serve it as a dessert or a very special breakfast treat. —Jerri Gradert, Lincoln, Nebraska
Croissants add a buttery punch to bread pudding, creating layers that are crisp on top and custardy in the middle. It’s practically made for a lazy Sunday morning at home.
30/41
Apple Crisp
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I live in apple country, and making a delicious apple crisp is one way to use the fruit. This treat doesn’t take a lot of time to assemble. —Gertrude Bartnick, Portage, Wisconsin
Cinnamon-laced apples under an oat crumble are the cozy winter dessert version of a sweater. This recipe is simple to prep and creates a comforting crisp that tastes especially good with a scoop of ice cream on top.
31/41
Apple Strudel
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
2 strudels (8 pieces each)
From the Recipe Creator:
This gorgeous strudel has just what you crave this time of year: thin layers of flaky crust and lots of juicy apples. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Apple strudel looks fancy, but it’s actually pretty easy to make. Thin layers of pastry keep the filling wrapped up like a present, which turns delightfully flaky as it bakes.
32/41
Warm Rocky Road Cake
Total Time
3 hours 20 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When it's warm, this reminds me of super moist lava cake. And until I made this, I didn't think a slow-cooker cake could be so attractive. It's a real winner. —Scarlett Elrod, Newnan, Georgia
Love rocky road ice cream? You’ll love the same marshmallow, chocolate and nut combination in a warm, spoonable form. Grab a bowl, dig in and forget the frost outside.
33/41
Banana and Chocolate Puff Pastry
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Banana with chocolate is such an irresistible combo that I make this quick dessert often. You can also top these tasty bundles with the butter and brown sugar mixture left over from coating the bananas, or sprinkle on a dash of sea salt. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
Banana and chocolate are a tried-and-true duo. Wrap them in flaky puff pastry, and you’ve got an easy treat that tastes like something from a boutique bakery (but without all the fuss).
34/41
Apple Crisp Pizza
Total Time
50 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
While visiting the bakery at a Wisconsin apple orchard, I tried this tempting treat. At home, I put together this recipe. As it bakes, the enticing aroma fills my kitchen, and friends and family linger waiting for a sample. —Nancy Preussner, Delhi, Iowa
Crisp meets pie meets pizza—could there be a better trio for chilly weather? Sliced apples, a crumbly topping and a fun shape make this a memorable dessert.
35/41
Hot Cocoa Souffle
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend invited me to a church cooking demo years ago, and one of the recipes we prepared was this luscious souffle. It's decadent and delicious. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Channel the magic of a steaming cup of hot chocolate in a lofty souffle form. This warm dessert puffs up like a cloud, and the inside is airy, chocolaty bliss.
36/41
Apple Betty with Almond Cream
Total Time
3 hours 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love making this apple betty for friends during the peak of apple season. I plan a quick soup and bread meal so we can get right to the dessert! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois
Imagine a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple dessert with soft, buttery bread that soaks up all the flavor as it slow-cooks. A dollop of almond cream at the end adds a nutty touch and ties it all together in this cozy winter dessert.
37/41
Cranberry Stuffed Apples
Total Time
3 hours 10 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Cinnamon, nutmeg and walnuts add a homey autumn flavor to these stuffed apples, while the slow cooker does most of the work. —Graciela Sandvigen, Rochester, New York
Apples are stuffed with cranberries and walnuts, then slow-cooked for hours. The fruit turns tender, and the nuts add a little crunch. It’s incredibly satisfying on a cold day, and the house will smell amazing!
38/41
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Monkey Bread
Total Time
2 hours 20 min
Servings
18 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Time to give rum cake a little competition! If this boozy take on monkey bread is too strong for your taste, cut back on the bourbon or use milk as a non-alcoholic substitute. —James Schend, Plesant Prairie, Wisconsin
Chocolate, pecans and a splash of bourbon take a classic monkey bread to new heights. Pull apart each piece while it’s still warm, and enjoy the decadent sauce that seeps between the layers.
39/41
Warm Chocolate Melting Cups
Total Time
40 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These little cakes have become a favorite of our guests. They are always surprised that such a chocolaty dessert is so light—less than 200 calories apiece! —Kissa Vaughn, Troy, Texas
If you love molten chocolate cake, you’ll adore these individual cups. Break through the top, and your spoon will sink into a silky center. It’s so good that you’ll keep coming back for more.
40/41
Apple Streusel
Total Time
6 hours 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Many people don't think of using a slow cooker to make dessert, but I like having this hot, scrumptious apple treat waiting to be served when we finish up our dinner. I start it in the morning and don't think about it all day. —Jacki Every, Rotterdam, New York
We love using a slow cooker for dessert, especially when apples are involved. It helps the fruit cook down to a deliciously soft texture with minimal effort. This recipe is ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
41/41
Sweet Orange Croissant Pudding
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Time-crunched cooks are sure to appreciate the make-ahead convenience of this delightful dish. Feel free to replace the orange marmalade with any jam or jelly that suits your taste.—Mary L. Gabriel, Las Vegas, Nevada
This croissant pudding gets a citrusy twist thanks to orange marmalade. Each bite delivers tangy brightness balanced by the pastry’s buttery layers. It’s a wake-up call for your winter taste buds and one of our favorite cozy winter desserts.
FAQs About Winter Dessert Recipes
What are the best desserts for winter nights?
The best winter desserts pack in warming flavors (like cinnamon, nutmeg or chocolate) and feature cozy textures (think puddings, cobblers or crisps). Baking apples or pears is another great way to capture the season’s charm.
How do I make my winter desserts extra cozy?
To make winter desserts feel cozy, serve them fresh from the oven with a decadent topping, like homemade whipped cream or a warm sauce. Pairing your dessert with a warm beverage like coffee, tea or hot chocolate will complete the comfy vibe.
What are the best gluten-free winter desserts?
Some of our best gluten-free baking recipes are winter desserts: They’re warm, comforting and full of seasonal flavors. Think flourless chocolate cake, spiced apples or pears, sticky toffee pudding and creamy rice pudding.
How should I store leftover warm desserts?
To store leftover warm desserts, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container. The best way to store baked goods depends on the recipe, but most desserts should be stored in the fridge. Some leftover desserts can be frozen, but the textures might change. When you’re ready for another helping, reheat your dessert in the microwave or oven.
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