Chocolate desserts are a favorite for many people. From cakes and pies to cookies and mousses, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this sweet treat.

Whether you prefer milk, dark, or white chocolate, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

These 26+ chocolate dessert recipes offer options for every skill level and taste. You’ll discover quick and easy no-bake treats as well as more complex baked goods.

Some recipes use common pantry items, while others may call for special ingredients. With so many choices, you’re sure to find new favorites to add to your dessert rotation.

1. Molten Lava Cake

Molten lava cake is a decadent chocolate dessert that’s sure to impress. You’ll love the contrast between the cake’s crisp exterior and its gooey center.

To make this treat, you’ll need butter, chocolate, eggs, sugar, and flour. Mix the ingredients, pour into ramekins, and bake for about 12-14 minutes at 425°F.

When you cut into the cake, warm chocolate will ooze out like lava. Serve it right away for the best experience.

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.

This dessert is perfect for date nights or dinner parties. You can prepare the batter ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

2. Triple Chocolate Brownies

Triple chocolate brownies are a decadent treat for chocolate lovers. They combine dark, milk, and white chocolate for an indulgent flavor explosion.

To make these brownies, you’ll melt butter and dark chocolate together. Then mix in sugar, eggs, and flour. Fold in milk and white chocolate chips for extra richness.

Pour the batter into a lined 8-inch square pan. Bake at 325°F for about 30-35 minutes until the edges start to pull away from the sides.

Let the brownies cool before cutting. You’ll be rewarded with fudgy, gooey squares packed with triple chocolate goodness.

Enjoy these as an after-dinner dessert or anytime snack.

3. Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate mousse is a classic dessert that’s sure to impress. You can make it with just a few ingredients. Whipped cream, chocolate, and eggs are the main components.

To create this treat, melt chocolate and mix it with egg yolks. Then fold in whipped cream. Some recipes add coffee or rum for extra flavor.

You can serve chocolate mousse in fancy glasses or bowls. Top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or berries.

It’s perfect for date nights or dinner parties.

This dessert is best when chilled for a few hours. Make it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Chocolate mousse is rich, creamy, and always a crowd-pleaser.

4. Chocolate Soufflé

Chocolate soufflé is a light and decadent dessert that’s sure to impress. You can make it in individual ramekins or as one large soufflé.

To start, preheat your oven and prepare the ramekins with butter and sugar. Melt high-quality chocolate in a double boiler for the best flavor.

Next, create a base by melting butter and whisking in flour. Fold in the melted chocolate and egg whites to give the soufflé its signature lift.

Bake for about 26-30 minutes until the soufflé rises tall. Serve immediately for the best texture and presentation.

This dessert is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a classic dessert loved by many. You can easily make them at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by creaming butter and sugar. Mix in eggs and vanilla. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before eating.

For extra flavor, try adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. White chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips work well.

6. Chocolate Ganache Tart

This rich dessert combines a buttery crust with smooth chocolate filling. You can make the crust using Oreo cookies or shortbread cookies mixed with melted butter. Press the mixture into a tart pan and chill it in the fridge.

For the ganache filling, mix chocolate and cream. Heat the cream, pour it over chopped chocolate, and stir until smooth. Pour this into your chilled crust.

You can add extra flavors like pumpkin or crystallized ginger for a twist.

The tart needs time to set in the fridge before serving. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that chocolate lovers will enjoy.

7. Chocolate Truffles

Chocolate truffles are small, round confections that melt in your mouth. You can make them at home with just a few ingredients. The basic recipe uses chocolate and cream to create a smooth ganache center.

You can coat your truffles in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or melted chocolate. For added flavor, try mixing in coffee, fruit, or liqueur.

Some popular variations include dark chocolate espresso truffles and white chocolate raspberry truffles.

Making truffles is easier than you might think. You’ll need to chill the ganache, roll it into balls, and then coat them.

It’s a fun project to do with friends or family. Homemade truffles also make great gifts for special occasions.

8. Chocolate Eclairs

Chocolate eclairs are a classic French pastry that you can make at home. To start, you’ll create a light, puffy choux pastry dough. Pipe the dough into long strips on a baking sheet.

Bake the eclairs until they’re golden and puffed up. Once cooled, fill them with a creamy vanilla custard or pastry cream.

The final touch is a rich chocolate glaze on top. You can make this by melting chocolate with cream. Dip or spread the glaze over each eclair.

Chocolate eclairs are perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a fancy dessert. With some practice, you’ll be making bakery-quality eclairs in your own kitchen.

9. Chocolate Fudge Cake

Chocolate fudge cake is a rich, moist dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. This decadent treat features layers of chocolatey goodness topped with creamy frosting.

To make it, you’ll need flour, cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, and butter. Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them to create a smooth batter.

Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes. Let the cakes cool before frosting.

For the frosting, melt chocolate and mix it with butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk. Spread it between the layers and over the entire cake.

Serve your homemade chocolate fudge cake for special occasions or anytime you crave an indulgent dessert.

10. Chocolate Pudding

Chocolate pudding is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always satisfying. You can whip up a batch from scratch or use a box mix for convenience.

To make pudding from scratch, mix sugar, cocoa powder, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Add milk and cook until thick. Stir in butter and vanilla for extra flavor.

For a quick treat, use instant pudding mix. Just add milk, whisk, and chill. You can eat it plain or use it in other desserts.

Try layering pudding with whipped cream and cookies for a simple parfait. Or use it as a pie filling for a creamy chocolate pie.

11. Chocolate Cheesecake

Chocolate cheesecake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines two beloved flavors. You’ll love the creamy texture and deep chocolate taste in every bite.

To make this treat, start with a chocolate cookie crust. Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and press into a springform pan.

For the filling, blend cream cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips. Add eggs and vanilla for a smooth, chocolatey mixture. Pour it over the crust and bake until set.

Let your cheesecake cool, then chill it in the fridge. For extra flair, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving. This dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.

12. Chocolate Fondue

Chocolate fondue is a delicious dessert perfect for parties or special occasions. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by heating cream in a saucepan. Add chocolate and stir until smooth. Some recipes include extras like vanilla or cherry brandy for added flavor.

Pour the melted chocolate into a fondue pot to keep it warm. Serve with various dippers like fruit, marshmallows, or cake pieces.

For best results, use high-quality chocolate. You can try different types like dark, milk, or white chocolate to suit your taste.

13. Chocolate Macarons

Chocolate macarons are a delicious French treat. You’ll need almond flour, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and egg whites to make them. Mix the dry ingredients first.

Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the dry mix into the egg whites gently. Pipe small circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Let the macarons rest for 30 minutes before baking. This helps form a crisp outer shell. Bake at 300°F for about 15 minutes.

Fill the cooled macaron shells with chocolate ganache. To make ganache, heat cream and pour it over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.

14. Chocolate Ice Cream

Chocolate ice cream is a classic dessert loved by many. You can make it at home with simple ingredients like cream, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder.

For a richer flavor, try using dark chocolate instead of cocoa. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate taste.

You can serve chocolate ice cream plain or dress it up with toppings. Try nuts, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

For a quick treat, buy a pint of chocolate ice cream from the store. Use it to make milkshakes, sundaes, or ice cream sandwiches.

15. Chocolate Éclair Cake

Chocolate éclair cake is a no-bake dessert that captures the flavors of the classic French pastry. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

This cake uses layers of graham crackers and a creamy vanilla pudding mixture. The top is covered with a rich chocolate ganache.

To make it, you’ll alternate layers of graham crackers and pudding in a baking dish. Then spread chocolate frosting on top. Chill it in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

The graham crackers soften as the cake chills, creating an éclair-like texture. It’s best after sitting for at least 24 hours. This gives you a make-ahead dessert perfect for parties or family gatherings.

16. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Chocolate peanut butter pie is a heavenly dessert that combines two favorite flavors. You’ll love the creamy peanut butter filling nestled in a chocolate cookie crust.

To make the crust, crush chocolate cookies in a food processor and mix with melted butter. Press this mixture into a pie pan and bake briefly.

For the filling, blend cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture over the cooled crust.

Top the pie with chocolate pudding and a layer of whipped cream. Chill for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

This no-bake dessert is perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

17. Chocolate Tiramisu

Chocolate tiramisu puts a delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert. You’ll layer chocolate-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mascarpone mixture.

Start by melting dark chocolate and letting it cool slightly. Mix mascarpone, ricotta, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. Fold in some whipped cream for extra lightness.

Dip ladyfingers in coffee and arrange them in a dish. Spread half the mascarpone mixture on top. Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers and cover with the remaining cream.

Dust cocoa powder over the top before chilling. This rich, chocolatey dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave an indulgent treat.

18. Chocolate Spritz Cookies

Chocolate spritz cookies are a tasty twist on classic spritz cookies. You can make them with a cookie press for fun shapes.

Mix butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until fluffy.

In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet ingredients.

Fill your cookie press with the dough. Press cookies onto ungreased baking sheets. You can add sprinkles or press a cherry in the center for extra flair.

Bake at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Let cool before enjoying these crisp, chocolatey treats. They’re perfect for holiday cookie platters or anytime you want a special chocolate cookie.

19. Sacher Torte

Sacher Torte is a classic Austrian chocolate cake. To make it, you’ll need to separate eggs and beat the yolks until smooth. Mix in softened butter and beat until creamy.

In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the whites into the chocolate mixture, then gently incorporate cake flour.

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake at 325°F (170°C) for about 45 minutes.

Once cooled, slice the cake in half horizontally. Spread apricot jam between the layers and over the top. Cover the entire cake with a chocolate glaze for a shiny finish.

20. Chocolate Roulade

Chocolate roulade is a delicious dessert that will impress your guests. It’s a thin chocolate sponge cake rolled with cream filling.

To make it, you’ll whip egg whites until stiff and fold them into a chocolate batter. Spread the batter thinly and bake until just set.

Once cooled, spread whipped cream over the cake. Carefully roll it up using the baking paper to help. The cake may crack, but that’s normal and adds to its charm.

Dust the finished roulade with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. You can add extra flavor by mixing coffee or liqueur into the cream filling.

21. Chocolate Babka

Chocolate babka is a sweet bread that’s perfect for dessert or breakfast. You start by making a rich yeast dough with butter, eggs, and sugar.

After the dough rises, you roll it out and spread a chocolate filling over it. The filling often includes cocoa, sugar, and butter.

You roll up the dough and twist it to create swirls of chocolate throughout. Then you let it rise again before baking.

When baked, chocolate babka has a soft, tender texture with ribbons of chocolate running through it. It’s best served warm, when the chocolate is still gooey.

22. Baked Chocolate Donuts

Baked chocolate donuts are a delicious treat you can make at home. These donuts are moist, fluffy, and full of rich chocolate flavor.

You’ll need flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt for the dry ingredients. Mix these with wet ingredients like eggs, milk, and vegetable oil.

Pipe the batter into a donut pan and bake for about 10 minutes. The result is tender, cake-like donuts without frying.

Top your donuts with a chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate and heavy cream. For extra indulgence, add sprinkles or a vanilla drizzle.

Baked donuts are easier to make than fried ones. They’re a bit healthier too, but just as tasty.

23. Chocolate Swiss Roll

A chocolate Swiss roll is a classic dessert that’s sure to impress. You’ll start with a light, spongy chocolate cake. Roll it up while still warm to create that signature swirl.

For the filling, whipped cream is a popular choice. Spread it evenly over the cake before rolling. Some bakers add flavor to the cream with coffee, mint, or orange zest.

Once rolled, dust the outside with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. Slice and serve for a pretty treat that looks harder to make than it is. With a little practice, you’ll master this eye-catching dessert in no time.

24. Chocolate Biscotti

Chocolate biscotti are crunchy Italian cookies perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. To make them, mix flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder in a bowl. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar, then add eggs.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired. Shape the dough into logs on a baking sheet.

Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes. Let cool, then slice diagonally. Bake the slices again until crisp. For extra indulgence, dip one end in melted chocolate.

These treats keep well in an airtight container, making them great for gifting or enjoying over several days.

25. Chocolate Bread Pudding

Chocolate bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that transforms stale bread into a decadent treat. You can make it easily with simple ingredients.

Start by cubing day-old bread and placing it in a buttered baking dish. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.

Pour the chocolate mixture over the bread cubes, making sure they’re evenly coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes so the bread can soak up the liquid.

Bake the pudding in a preheated oven until set, usually 45-55 minutes. The top will be slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and custardy.

Serve your chocolate bread pudding warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

26. Chocolate Zabaglione

Chocolate zabaglione is a rich, creamy dessert that combines classic Italian custard with chocolate. You’ll whisk egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine over low heat until thick and frothy.

Then, melt chocolate chips with cream to create a smooth sauce. Mix this into your zabaglione for a decadent twist on the traditional recipe.

Serve your chocolate zabaglione warm or cold. It pairs well with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder on top. You can also try using coffee liqueur instead of Marsala for a mocha flavor.

This dessert is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties. Its smooth texture and intense chocolate taste make it a crowd-pleaser.

The Art of Chocolate Dessert Making

Making chocolate desserts takes skill and know-how. You can create amazing treats with the right ingredients and methods.

Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Desserts

You’ll need high-quality chocolate as your main ingredient. Look for cocoa content of 60% or higher for rich flavor.

Cocoa powder is great for cakes and cookies. Don’t forget butter, sugar, and eggs for structure and taste.

Heavy cream helps make ganache and mousse. Vanilla extract adds depth to your desserts. For texture, nuts and fruits pair well with chocolate. Salt can boost chocolate’s flavor, so keep some on hand.

Good measuring tools are a must. A kitchen scale gives you the most accurate amounts. Silicone spatulas and whisks help mix ingredients smoothly.

Mastering Chocolate Tempering

Tempering chocolate gives it a shiny look and crisp snap. It’s key for making candies and coatings.

To temper, you’ll melt chocolate, cool it, then warm it again to specific temperatures.

Start by chopping your chocolate into small pieces. Melt 2/3 of it in a double boiler. Remove from heat when it reaches 115°F for dark chocolate or 110°F for milk or white.

Add the rest of the chopped chocolate. Stir until it melts and cools to 88-90°F for dark, or 84-86°F for milk and white. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Test by spreading a thin layer on wax paper. If it sets quickly and looks shiny, it’s ready to use. Practice makes perfect with this skill!

Understanding Chocolate Varieties

Chocolate comes in different types, each with its own flavor and best uses. Knowing the differences can help you pick the right kind for your desserts.

Dark, Milk, and White Chocolate: Differences and Uses

Dark chocolate has the most cocoa and least sugar. It tastes strong and slightly bitter. Bakers use it for rich cakes and ganaches.

Milk chocolate adds milk solids for a creamy, sweet flavor. It’s great for candy bars and sweet sauces.

White chocolate contains no cocoa solids, just cocoa butter. It’s very sweet and melts easily. Bakers use it for frostings and decorations.

There’s also ruby chocolate. It’s pink and tastes fruity. It works well in mousses and as a topping.

Choosing the Right Chocolate for Your Desserts

For baking, use chocolate with 60-70% cocoa for a balanced flavor. Higher percentages can be too bitter.

Chips hold their shape when baked, while bars melt smoothly.

For ganache or fondue, pick a chocolate you enjoy eating plain. The flavor stands out in these recipes.

White chocolate burns easily. Melt it slowly and carefully.

For decorations, use chocolate made for melting and molding.

Match chocolate to your recipe. Dark works in rich desserts. Milk tastes great in lighter treats. White adds sweetness without overpowering other flavors.