These 15 Make-Ahead Desserts Won’t Let Busy Weeks Beat Your Sweet Tooth

What’s better than dessert? The answer: a dessert that’s ready when you are! Even on the busiest weeks, these make-ahead sweets promise to banish the blahs quickly. No more last-minute scrambling or settling for something less exciting. Each dessert is prepped in advance, ensuring a perfect treat is never more than a fridge or freezer away. In the middle of a hectic week, these kinds of little surprises keep spirits high. Making dessert ahead means always being ready to take a break and treat yourself.

A close-up of two pecan brownies on a slate surface, showing the rich, chocolatey interior and a topping of chopped pecans.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Chocolate Overload Cookies are packed with layers of rich flavors, perfect for any chocoholic. With every bite, enjoy a chocolatier twist that makes ordinary cookies pale in comparison. Preparing them ahead ensures they stay fresh and are always ready for a quick snack. Even on the busiest days, have these mouthwatering treats within arm’s reach. They are perfect for fulfilling a midday craving or a dessert after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

Pumpkin Blondies

A white rectangular plate with pieces of pumpkin blondies.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For fall-inspired treats, Pumpkin Blondies offers an autumnal twist on the classic. These moist bars combine the rich flavors of pumpkin with a chewy texture that satisfies every craving. Their make-ahead nature means less stress when snack time arrives. Store these in an airtight container and enjoy the comforting taste any time. They provide a cozy and convenient way to add seasonal flair to your week.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls arranged on a black slate serving tray.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fans of cookie butter will love Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls, which blend the sweet crunch of Biscoff with cake in bite-sized portions. These treats can be made in advance and stored, making them a quick grab-and-go solution for any dessert emergency. Their unique taste stands out at any gathering and delights in any setting. Pop one in your mouth, and it’s instant bliss. Perfect for adding a bit of indulgence to a hectic week.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Buttermilk Banana Cake offers a moist and flavorful option for banana lovers. Its rich banana flavor combined with a buttermilk tang makes each slice irresistible. This cake can be made ahead and stays fresh all week long. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a lovely end to a meal. It’s a versatile dessert that simplifies snack time, no matter how busy life gets.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

Blueberry Shortcake

Close-up shot of Blueberry Shortcakes served on a white plate.
Blueberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Cheat the hassle with Blueberry Shortcake, an easy-to-make dessert that bursts with fresh blueberries. The shortcake’s tender texture perfectly complements the berries’ natural sweetness. Make these ahead to simplify your week and ensure you’re always ready for a quick, fulfilling snack. They’re a light and refreshing treat you’ll find hard to resist. They’re great for creating an effortless dessert experience after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Double Chocolate Brookies is a chocoholic’s dream, combining the best brownies and cookies. These treats feature a fudgy center wrapped in a crispy cookie layer, delivering double the chocolate. Prep them in batches, and always have an indulgent treat ready. Their rich taste makes them perfect for any sweet craving, no matter the time of day. They are ideal for adding a touch of luxury to your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Three pieces of No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars on a black slate plate.
No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars offer the rich, creamy deliciousness of cheesecake without the oven. Each bar bursts with a mix of blueberries and a smooth cheesecake layer, making it a standout dessert. Prepare these ahead and keep them chilled for an easy and refreshing treat whenever needed. Perfect for any occasion that calls for something sweet and heartwarming, these bars make dessert time both simple and entertaining.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A pineapple upside-down cake with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries in a cast iron skillet.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Bring a touch of nostalgia to dessert time with Pineapple Upside Down Cake. This classic treat offers a unique combination of sweet pineapples and moist cake. Make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week. The caramelized toppings get even better over time, making each slice a pleasant experience. It is a fitting way to end any meal on a sweet note with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

A top-down shot of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies on a white plate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Add a bit of zing to your snack time with Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. They offer a bright citrus flavor in every bite, and the poppy seeds add a lovely crunch to these light and fresh cookies. Make them in advance to always have a refreshing treat ready to grab. Perfect for a quick snack or something sweet to accompany your tea, these cookies turn a busy day into a moment of lemony bliss.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Four glasses of raspberry cheesecake parfait.
Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits combine layers of creamy cheesecake with tart raspberries in a stylish presentation. These parfaits can be made ahead and stored in individual portions for convenience. They’re a perfect treat to serve at gatherings or indulge in at home. Fresh, tangy, and creamy, they offer a little luxury any day of the week. Ideal for a gourmet treat that doesn’t require much effort.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

A white plate with four square pieces of Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies bars.
Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies combine the spicy depth of speculoo cookies with the sweetness of white chocolate. They can be prepared ahead and stored, making them both delicious and convenient. Their unique flavor profile ensures they stand out from the crowd. Enjoy them as a treat to share, or keep them all to yourself. They are the epitome of delicious efficiency and unique flavor.
Get the Recipe: Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Yellow plum crumble bars on a black slate plate.
Yellow Plum Crumble Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars deliver a comforting combination of sweet plums and crumbly topping for a fruity indulgence. These bars can be made ahead and stored to brighten any snack time. The crumble top offers a lovely contrast to the tender plum filling. They’re great for enjoying with a cup of tea or packing for an on-the-go treat. These bars make it easy to add a bit of fruity goodness to a packed schedule.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Nanna’s Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks.
Nanna’s Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy Nanna’s Apple Cake, a comforting and homey dessert that brings classic flavors. This moist and tender cake captures the essence of a traditional homemade treat. Prepare it in advance and enjoy it as a dessert or snack throughout the week. It’s perfect for making those busy days feel a bit more comforting. It’s a nostalgic treat that fits right into any hectic lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake

Raspberry Crumb Cake

A piece of raspberry crumb cake on a plate.
Raspberry Crumb Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Raspberry Crumb Cake layers juicy raspberries with a buttery crumb topping, creating a lovely blend of textures. This cake is designed for make-ahead convenience, letting you enjoy a fresh dessert at any time. The contrast between the tart raspberries and sweet crumbs makes each bite pleasurable. It is ideal for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet end to a meal. It is an easy way to bring a touch of elegance to any day.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Crumb Cake

Pecan Pie Brownies

A close-up of two pecan brownies on a slate surface, showing the rich, chocolatey interior and a topping of chopped pecans.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For a nutty twist on a classic treat, Pecan Pie Brownies combine rich chocolate and crunchy pecans. These brownies can be prepped ahead and enjoyed throughout the week, combining the best of pecan pie and chocolate brownies. The combination offers an enjoyable mix of flavors and textures. They’re perfect for any occasion that calls for a quick yet indulgent dessert—an excellent way to enjoy a complex treat simply.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Leave a Comment