15 Make-Ahead Desserts for Easy Entertaining

These 15 easy make-ahead desserts include cakes, chilled desserts, individual treats, and prep-ahead recipes that let you get most or all of the work done before your party.

When you're hosting, dessert is one of the easiest things to get out of the way early.

Some desserts are actually better when made in advance because they need time to chill, set, or develop flavor. Others are best when you prepare the components ahead of time, then bake, assemble, or decorate shortly before serving.

This list includes both: desserts you can completely make ahead of time and desserts you can prep ahead so there's much less to do on the day of your party!

Best Make-Ahead Desserts

These desserts can be completely made ahead of time and stored until you're ready to serve. They're especially useful for parties because there's little or nothing left to do at the last minute. Chilled desserts, no-bake recipes, and individually portioned treats work especially well here. So, if you want something you can prepare well before guests arrive, start with these favorites:

Cakes to Make Ahead

Cakes are easy to work into a make-ahead schedule because the layers, fillings, and frosting can often be prepared separately. Depending on the recipe, you can bake the layers ahead, assemble the cake the day before, or refrigerate the finished cake until serving. This makes them much easier to manage for birthdays, holidays, and parties.

Desserts to Prepare Ahead of Time

Some desserts are better when most of the work is done ahead, but the final baking, filling, or assembly happens closer to serving. This gives you the convenience of early prep without sacrificing the taste and texture. It's especially useful for desserts that are best warm, crisp, or freshly filled!

More Easy Dessert Ideas