Sweet Treats on a Shoestring: Easy and Affordable Desserts | AbsoluteBlack

Craving something sweet but don’t want to break the bank? You’re in luck! These easy-to-make and affordable dessert recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth without emptying your wallet. From classic chocolate pudding to no-bake peanut butter bars, these treats are simple, delicious, and budget-friendly!

1. Classic Chocolate Pudding (From Scratch)

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups milk (any kind)
• 1 tablespoon butter (or margarine)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
• Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
• Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
• Pour into individual serving dishes and chill for at least 1 hour.

2. Simple Apple Crumble (Using Pantry Staples)

Ingredients:

• 4-5 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup butter (or margarine), melted

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a bowl, toss apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon.
• In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, and brown sugar.
• Stir in melted butter until crumbly.
• Pour apple mixture into a baking dish and top with crumble mixture.
• Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until apples are tender and crumble is golden brown.

3. No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars (Minimal Effort)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup melted butter (or margarine)
• Optional: chocolate chips for topping

Instructions:

• In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter.
• Press mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish.
• If desired, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the top.
• Chill for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars.

4. “Nice” Cream (Frozen Fruit Delight)

Ingredients:

• 2-3 ripe bananas, frozen
• Optional: other frozen fruits (berries, mango, etc.), peanut butter, cocoa powder

Instructions:

• Place frozen bananas (and other frozen fruits) in a food processor or blender.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Add peanut butter, cocoa powder, or other flavorings as desired.
• Serve immediately or freeze for a firmer texture.

5. Chocolate Mug Cake (Single-Serving Indulgence)

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tablespoons milk (any kind)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• In a large mug, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
• Stir in milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Let cool slightly, and enjoy.

Tips for Affordable Baking:

• Utilize pantry staples: Flour, sugar, oats, and cocoa powder are versatile and inexpensive.
• Embrace seasonal fruits: Apples, bananas, and berries are often affordable and delicious.
• Don’t waste overripe fruit: Use them in banana bread or “nice” cream.
• Make your own extracts: Vanilla extract can be pricey, but you can make your own.
• Shop sales and use coupons: Look for deals on baking ingredients.

With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy delicious desserts without breaking the bank. Happy baking!