15 Dessert Recipes to Feed a Crowd

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Are you planning to host a family dinner or friends get-together dinner? When it comes to entertaining the guests at a dinner party or a potluck, nothing can bring the people together more than a dinner table full of irresistible desserts. Decorate your dinner table with a variety of creamy and fruity desserts to satisfy the sweet tooth and leave a lasting impression on your guests. Make your events more memorable by pleasing your guests with the delicious bites of cakes, pies, and cookies, where each delight is truly a crowd-pleaser. Explore our curated collection of 15 Dessert Recipes to Feed a Crowd, where you will find mouthwatering options and experience a variety of textures and flavors.

Indulge in the sweetness of German dessert recipes and Maja dessert recipes to indulge in the unique flavors of different cuisines.

1. Texas Sheet Cake

 

Serve your guests with this classic Texas sheet cake, an ideal dessert to feed a crowd at large gatherings. Prepare this moist and luscious chocolate cake using cake mix and brown sugar, and garnish it by topping it with chocolate frosting. Add an extra punch of chocolaty flavor by adding mini chocolate chips to the batter. Serve with a scoop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×18-inch baking sheet.
• In a large bowl, add flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt and mix.
• In a saucepan, melt butter with water and stir until smooth.
• Remove from heat and pour the cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients.
• Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract and mix it until smooth.
• Fold in the mini chocolate chips, pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool down the cake before frosting.
• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
• Remove from heat and mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Evenly spread the frosting over the cooled cake.

2. Lemon Bars

 

Tantalize your taste buds with the tanginess of lemon bars, which is a refreshing dessert recipe to feed a crowd. Make this party dessert by adding sweet and tangy lemon filling in a baked buttery crust. These bars are easy to cut into squares and serve, making them one of the best desserts to bring to a party.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
• Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing.

3. Chocolate Chip Cookies

 

The classic chocolate chip cookies are among the top desserts in the list of party sweets recipes. These chewy inside and crispy outside cookies are loaded with chocolate chips. It is an easy-to-make dessert and is a sure crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking tray with parchment paper.
• Mix flour and baking soda in a bowl.
• In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
• Add the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
• Fold chocolate chips in the mixture.
• Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
• Cool the cookies by transferring them to a wire rack.

4. Peanut Butter Bars

Peanut butter bars are rich and satisfying dessert which combines brown sugar base with a creamy peanut butter layer. One among easy to make potluck desserts topped with a smooth layer of chocolate perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

• In a bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and brown sugar until well mixed.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
• Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

5. Cream Cheese Brownies

 

The deliciousness of cream cheese brownies is hard to beat. The combination of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese creates a marbled effect that tastes as great as it looks. These brownies are ideal desserts for potluck gatherings because they can be easily cut into small pieces to feed a large crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• Add butter and chocolate in a bowl and melt in the microwave until smooth.
• Mix the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan and spread evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the batter and spread gently.
• Add the remaining brownie batter on top and use a knife to swirl the batters together.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool the brownies completely before cutting.

6. Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars

 

These chocolate caramel pretzel bars are the perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness. Make a delicious party dessert with a crunchy pretzel crust topped with layers of chocolate caramel and mini chocolate chips. It is an easy-to-make-and-hit dessert for dinner parties.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed pretzels 
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
•  Prepare the baking pan by lining it 9×13 inches with parchment paper.
• Combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl and mix until well combined.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
• Pour the caramel sauce over the pretzel crust, spread it evenly, and sprinkle it with the chocolate chips.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

7. Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that is always a crowd favorite. Prepare this delicious no bake delight using the coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s perfect for making ahead and serving at a dinner party.

Ingredients

• 6 large egg yolks
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
• 2 packages ladyfingers
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

• Beat the egg yolks and sugar together in a heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and whisk constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Remove from heat and let it cool then, then whisk in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
• Combine the coffee and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
• Dip each ladyfinger briefly in the coffee mixture for a few seconds and then put them in a single layer in a 9 by 13-inch dish.
• Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the lady’s fingers.
• Repeat with another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
• Cover and chill for at least four hours or overnight.
• Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

8. Fruit Tart

Showcase the beauty of seasonal fruits in this light and refreshing fruit tart dessert. The crispy tart shell is filled with creamy custard and topped with a colorful chunk of fresh fruits. This colorful and healthy dessert is perfect for a dinner party or a potluck.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Assorted fresh fruit (berries, kiwi, mango, etc.)
• Apricot jam for glazing

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a tart pan.
• Combine the flour, powdered sugar, and butter in a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the egg yolk and blend until the dough comes together.
• Press the dough into the tart pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
• In a saucepan, heat the milk until it just begins to simmer.
• Whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a bowl until smooth.
• Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
• Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool.
• Spread the cooled custard into the tart shell and top with fresh fruit chunks.
• Glazed with the warm apricot jam.

9. Rice Krispie Treats

Feed the crowd by preparing large batches of Rice Krispie treats, which is a nostalgic pick among dessert recipes. These gooey marshmallow treats are always well-liked by both the kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

• Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
• Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
• Remove from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
• If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips or sprinkles.
• Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a greased spatula.
• Let it cool completely before cutting it into squares and garnish with chocolate chips or sprinkles.

10. Pecan Pie Bars

 

If you are searching for a delicious alternative to the classic pie dessert recipes then this Pecan pie bars dessert is a good option to feed large crowd.These bars have a buttery shortbread crust topped with a sweet and nutty pecan filling. Make these bite-sized pecan pie bar pieces for a potluck or dinner party .

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

• Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Evenly press the mixture into the bottom of the greased pan
• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until a light golden color appears on the crust.
• Whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth in a second dish.
• Stir in the chopped pecans.
• Pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust and spread evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set.
• Before slicing, allow the bars to cool completely.

11. Cheesecake Bites

Cheesecake bites are a convenient pick among the dessert recipes to feed cheesecake to a large crowd. These bite-sized treats are made with a graham cracker crust and a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with your favorite fruits or chocolate ganache.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 packages (8 oz each) of cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh berries or chocolate ganache for topping

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
• In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
• Press a tablespoon of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Spoon the cheesecake filling into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the centers are set.
• Cool and top with fresh berries or chocolate ganache before serving.

12. Carrot Cake Dessert

 

Carrot cake is a moist and flavorful dessert and a hit dessert of family gatherings. This recipe features a spiced cake filled with grated carrots and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Feed the crowd with the delicious carrot cake dessert recipes by cutting the cake into small squares.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
• In a large bowl, beat the sugars and oil until well combined.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing just until combined.
• Fold in the grated carrots and walnuts (if using).
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
• Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cake and cut into squares.

13. Giant Cookie Cake

Skip individual cookies and go for a giant cookie cake instead. It’s fun and easy to cut into slices, and you can decorate it with frosting or sprinkles to match the occasion. Chocolate chip is a classic, but feel free to experiment with flavors like oatmeal raisin or peanut butter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• Frosting and sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-inch pizza pan.
• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then add vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Fold in chocolate chips.
• Press the dough into the greased pan, spreading it evenly.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool in the pan.
• Decorate with frosting and sprinkles if desired before slicing into wedges.

14. Peach Cobbler

Peach cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for large gatherings. The sweet, juicy peaches and golden biscuit topping make it a favorite among many. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

For the filling

• 6-8 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 stick unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup boiling water

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss peach slices with sugars, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until well combined.
3. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. For the topping, mix flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
5. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Add boiling water and stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the peaches, spreading it out as much as possible.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden and the peaches are bubbling.
9. Serve warm, optionally, with vanilla ice cream.

15. Pavlova

For something light and airy, try making a pavlova. This meringue-based dessert has a crisp crust and a soft, marshmallow-like interior. Top it with whipped cream and fresh fruit like berries or kiwi for a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the meringue

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp cornstarch

For the toppings

• 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh fruits (strawberries, kiwi, raspberries, or passionfruit)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold in vinegar, vanilla, and cornstarch.
• Shape meringue into a round mound with a slight indent and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Cool in the oven with the door slightly open.
• Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla.
• Top meringue with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Serve immediately.

Conclusion

Feed your crowd with these delicious mouthwatering dessert recipes at the next dinner party or potluck. Cherish the moments with your friends and family by sprinkling the sweetness of these chocolatey, fruity, or creamy desserts. There are plenty of dessert recipes to add in the menu of your dinner party or potluck to feed large crowd. From cheesecake bites to brownie sundaes, these dessert recipes will ensure that your next event is a hit. Whether you’re looking for something rich and indulgent like a Texas sheet cake or light and refreshing like a fruit salad, there’s something here for every sweet tooth. Just remember to make plenty because these delicious treats are sure to disappear quickly.