Are you a culinary newbie looking to spice up your cooking game? Or perhaps you’re short on time and want to whip up a quick treat without breaking out a million ingredients? Whatever the case, we’ve got you covered! Introducing our collection of 18 easy 2-ingredient recipes perfect for beginners. Yes, you read that right – just two simple ingredients are all you need to create these mouth-watering treats.
From classic comfort foods like peanut butter cookies and pancakes, to sweet indulgences like banana ice cream and chocolate fudge, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy any craving. And the best part? You won’t have to sacrifice flavor or quality for ease of preparation. So why not get started with these simple yet delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household?
Peanut Butter Cookies
A classic favorite, these peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the rich flavor of peanut butter. Perfect for a quick snack or as a treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg until well mixed.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Ice Cream
Transform ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious ice cream without an ice cream maker! This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream, honey (if using), and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 2 hours or overnight)
Chocolate Fudge
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic chocolate fudge recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 12 ounces (340g) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat; stir in 6 ounces (170g) of the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish. Smooth top with a spatula.
6. Melt remaining 6 ounces (170g) of chocolate chips; spread evenly over the fudge.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 1 square, cut into 9-12 pieces
Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate fudge!
Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of golden brown pancakes, infused with the tanginess of buttermilk and a hint of sweetness. This classic recipe yields tender, fluffy cakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, and egg.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on size of pancakes.
Microwave Brownie
Quick Fix Microwave Brownie Recipe
Summary: This recipe yields a rich and fudgy brownie perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine the butter, sugar, and egg. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
2. Add the flour, salt, and cocoa powder to the mug. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in the milk and mix until smooth.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 45-50 seconds or until the brownie is cooked through.
5. Remove from the microwave and let cool for a minute.
Cooking Time: 1:15 minutes
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s power level. Keep an eye on the brownie to avoid overcooking.
Enjoy your gooey, fudgy microwave brownie!
Whipped Cream
Elevate your desserts with a simple yet impressive whipped cream recipe. This classic topping is easy to make and can be flavored to suit any sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the vanilla extract, if using, and mix until combined.
4. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even whipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure the cream is well-chilled before whipping for best results.
– Don’t over-whip, as this can lead to buttery or grainy whipped cream.
– Experiment with different flavorings like cocoa powder, melted chocolate, or fruit purees to create unique variations.
Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are a timeless treat that requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort to yield a deliciously crumbly result. This recipe is a staple for any cookie lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until it comes together in a cohesive mass.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yogurt Popsicles
Beat the heat with these creamy and healthy popsicles made with Greek yogurt, honey, and a touch of vanilla. A perfect treat for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6-8 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups with handles.
3. Insert popsicle sticks into each mold or cup.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Enjoy your refreshing yogurt popsicles!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or less)
Lemonade
Quench your thirst with this classic lemonade recipe, perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply mix and chill.
Cheese Crisps
A classic snack that’s perfect for movie nights or as a quick pick-me-up, cheese crisps are easy to make and irresistibly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these crispy treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice!)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese, flour, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Drop small balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each crisp.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Experience the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy avocado in this unique dessert recipe. Perfect for a special treat or a healthier indulgence, this mousse is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Add the avocado mixture to the chocolate-whipped cream mixture and fold until smooth.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Condensed Milk Fudge
A classic treat that’s easy to make and utterly delicious, condensed milk fudge is a perfect sweet indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and butter. Place over medium heat.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
7. Cut into small squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Nutella Mug Cake
Treat yourself to a rich and indulgent dessert with this simple recipe. In just minutes, you’ll have a warm, gooey, and utterly delicious cake filled with the iconic flavors of Nutella.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 large egg
– 1-2 tablespoons Nutella (depending on your desired level of chocolatey-ness)
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add in the butter, egg, and Nutella. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in the milk and whisk until well combined.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Flourless Banana Bread
Moist and delicious, this flourless banana bread is a game-changer for those looking for a gluten-free option or simply wanting to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for fall baking, using the warmth of pumpkin puree to add natural sweetness and depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oatmeal Cookies
Classic Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These chewy oatmeal cookies are a perfect treat any time of the year. With a hint of spice and a crunchy texture, they’re sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: raisins, walnuts, or other mix-ins of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. If using, stir in raisins or nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Treat yourself to a rich and indulgent dessert with these easy-to-make chocolate peanut butter cups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 3/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 24 paper-lined mini muffin cups
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into each muffin cup.
5. Top with about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Strawberry Sorbet
Lighten up your dessert game with this refreshing strawberry sorbet recipe. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering) + chilling time
Summary
Discover the simplicity of cooking with these 18 easy-to-make 2-ingredient recipes perfect for beginners. From sweet treats like Peanut Butter Cookies and Chocolate Fudge to healthier options like Yogurt Popsicles and Avocado Chocolate Mousse, there’s something for everyone. Whip up a batch of pancakes or microwave a brownie in no time. Impress your friends with Shortbread Cookies and Cheese Crisps or satisfy your cravings with Condensed Milk Fudge and Nutella Mug Cake. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.