25 Delicious Desserts That Start with D
Desserts that start with the letter “D” are often overlooked, but they can be some of the most delicious treats.
From classic favorites like donuts and devil’s food cake to lesser-known delights like dacquoise and diples, a world of mouthwatering desserts is waiting to be discovered.
In this article, we’ll explore 25 of the best desserts, beginning with “D,” each guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
Get ready to indulge in a delightful array of flavors and textures, from creamy and smooth to crispy and crunchy.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a fruit fanatic, or a fan of all things sweet, you will find a new favorite among these irresistible desserts.
Simple and Quick Delights
1. Dirt Pudding
Dirt pudding is a delightful treat featuring layers of rich chocolate pudding and crunchy Oreo cookies, topped with cute gummy worms to create a realistic ‘dirt’ effect.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chocolate pudding mix | 1 package (4 oz) |
| Oreo cookies | 15 cookies (crushed) |
| Gummy worms | 10 worms |
| Milk (for pudding) | 2 cups |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Servings: Serves 4-6
How to Prepare
- Start by mixing the chocolate pudding according to the package instructions.
- Layer the pudding in clear cups with crushed Oreo cookies, and finish by garnishing with gummy worms on top for a fun presentation.
Serving Tips
Serve dirt pudding in individual cups or a large clear bowl to showcase the appealing ‘dirt’ layers. It’s perfect for a children’s party or as a casual dessert that’s sure to bring smiles.
2. Danish Pastry
These delicate pastries feature light, airy layers filled with sweet fruit preserves or smooth, creamy fillings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff pastry | 1 sheet (frozen) |
| Fruit preserves or custard | 1 cup |
| Egg (for wash) | 1 large |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes (using pre-made dough)
Servings: Variable
How to Prepare
- Start by thawing the puff pastry according to package instructions.
- Cut the pastry into your desired shapes, add your chosen fillings, and bake until the pastry turns a beautiful golden color.
Serving Tips
Danish pastries are best served fresh and warm from the oven. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust them with powdered sugar before serving.
3. Dutch Baby Pancake
Dutch baby pancakes are large, fluffy pancakes with a custardy center baked to perfection in a hot skillet.
This impressive dessert puffs up beautifully in the oven and is often served with sweet toppings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 3 large |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Powdered sugar (for serving) |
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-4
How to Prepare
- Whisk together the ingredients until smooth.
- Then, pour the batter into a hot, buttered skillet.
- Bake in a preheated oven until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
Serving Tips
Serve your Dutch baby pancake hot from the oven for the best texture. Classic toppings include a squeeze of lemon juice and a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a scattering of fresh berries.
4. Deep Fried Oreos
These decadent bites feature classic Oreo cookies dipped in batter and fried until golden, resulting in a warm, gooey center surrounded by a crispy exterior.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oreo cookies | 10 cookies |
| Pancake batter | 1 cup |
| Oil (for frying) | 2 cups |
| Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup (for dusting) |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 10
How to Prepare
- Dip each Oreo cookie in prepared pancake batter.
- Then, carefully fry them in hot oil until they turn golden brown.
Serving Tips
Dust your deep-fried Oreos with powdered sugar and serve them warm for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
5. Dulce de Leche
Dulce de leche is a rich, creamy, caramel-like sauce made by slowly heating sweetened milk until it turns a beautiful golden color and thickens to perfection.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
Preparation Time: 1-2 hours (stovetop method)
Servings: Variable
How to Prepare
- To make dulce de leche, simmer a closed can of sweetened condensed milk in water for several hours.
- The result is a luscious, golden sauce perfect for various desserts.
Serving Tips
Serve dulce de leche warm over your favorite desserts or as a delicious dip for fresh fruit.
Cakes and Tortes
6. Devil’s Food Cake
Devil’s Food Cake is celebrated for its rich, moist, and airy texture.
This indulgent chocolate cake gets its intense flavor from high-quality cocoa powder, resulting in a deep, dark color and a heavenly taste.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 3/4 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 3/4 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Hot water | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10 slices
How to Prepare
- Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.
- Combine the two mixtures and bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
Serving Tips
This cake makes a stunning centerpiece for celebrations and special occasions. Garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
7. Dobos Torte
Dobos Torte is a Hungarian specialty with multiple layers of light sponge cake filled with rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a shiny caramel glaze.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter (for buttercream) | 1 cup |
| Dark chocolate (melted) | 6 oz |
| Heavy cream (for caramel topping) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar (for caramel topping) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
How to Prepare
- Bake thin layers of sponge cake, then layer them with chocolate buttercream.
- Top the cake with a glossy caramel glaze for a stunning finish.
Serving Tips
Dobos Torte is ideal for festive occasions. Slice it so that each piece includes all the delicate layers for a beautiful presentation.
8. Dundee Cake
Dundee Cake is a robust Scottish fruit cake packed with almonds, raisins, and warm spices. This hearty cake has a satisfying texture and a comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Mixed spice | 1 tsp |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Almonds (blanched) | 1/2 cup |
| Mixed dried fruits (currants, sultanas, cherries) | 3 cups |
| Orange zest | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon zest | 1 tbsp |
Preparation Time: Over 2 hours
Servings: Multiple
How to Prepare
- Mix the ingredients.
- Then, bake slowly in a lined cake tin until the cake is golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Once it’s firm, take it out and serve it after it cools down.
Serving Tips
Serve sliced Dundee Cake with tea or as a festive treat during the holiday season.
9. Dump Cake
Known for its simplicity, Dump Cake involves dumping ingredients into a pan and baking without mixing, resulting in a cobbler-like dessert that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Crushed pineapple | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Yellow cake mix | 1 package |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (melted) |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
How to Prepare
- Layer fruit and cake mix in a baking dish.
- Dot with butter, and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Once it cools down, serve it.
Serving Tips
Serve warm dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert.
10. Depression Cake
Depression Cake is a cost-effective and simple chocolate cake that originated during the Great Depression.
This cake is made without eggs or dairy, relying on pantry staples to create a moist and flavorful dessert.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| White vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 1/3 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
How to Prepare
- Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients directly in the baking pan.
- Then, bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve it now.
Serving Tips
Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or a simple icing for a classic presentation.
International Delights
11. Dacquoise
Dacquoise is an elegant French dessert with delicate nut meringue layers filled with whipped cream or buttercream. The result is a light and airy texture with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg whites | 8 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Ground hazelnuts | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp |
Preparation Time: 2 hours
Servings: 8-10 slices
How to Prepare
- Mix all the ingredients and bake the nut meringue layers until crisp.
- Then, the dacquoise is assembled by layering the meringues with whipped cream or buttercream.
- Ready to serve.
Serving Tips
For a touch of French elegance, serve chilled dacquoise as a refined dessert at formal dinners or celebrations.
12. Danish Apple Cake
Danish Apple Cake is a comforting dessert with layers of tender stewed apples topped with a crispy, buttery crumble, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tart apples (peeled and sliced) | 4 large |
| White sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Whipped cream (for serving) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
How to Prepare
- Layer stewed apples in a baking dish.
- Then, top with a crumble flour, sugar, and butter mixture.
- Bake until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Serving Tips
Serve warm Danish Apple Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard for a cozy and comforting dessert.
13. Dango
Dango are sweet Japanese rice dumplings often served skewered and covered with a variety of sweet sauces or toppings.
They are a popular and versatile treat.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet rice flour (Mochiko) | 1 cup |
| Sugar (optional) | 2 tbsp |
| Soy sauce (for sauce) | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar (for sauce) | 2 tbsp |
| Water (for sauce) | 2 tbsp |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-5
How to Prepare
- Mix rice flour with water to form a dough.
- Then, shape into small balls.
- Boil the dango until they float, then glaze with sweet soy sauce or other toppings.
Serving Tips
Enjoy dango as a snack or a light dessert, especially during festive seasons like Cherry Blossom viewing or the Moon Festival.
14. Donauwelle
Donauwelle is a visually striking German cake featuring waves of vanilla and chocolate sponge cake studded with cherries and topped with rich chocolate buttercream.
When sliced, the cake creates a beautiful marbled effect.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Cocoa powder | 3 tbsp |
| Sour cherries (pitted) | 1 cup |
| Dark chocolate (for glaze) | 4 oz |
Preparation Time: 1.5 hours
Servings: 12 slices
How to Prepare
- Create a marbled cake batter by swirling vanilla and chocolate batters together.
- Then add cherries.
- Bake, cool, and top with chocolate buttercream and a glossy chocolate glaze.
Serving Tips
Slice the Donauwelle to show off the beautiful marbled effect and cherry placement. This cake is ideal for afternoon tea or special occasions.
15. Dame Blanche
Dame Blanche is a simple yet luxurious Belgian dessert that consists of creamy vanilla ice cream topped with whipped cream and a generous drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | 4 scoops |
| Whipped cream | 1 cup |
| Dark chocolate (melted) | 4 oz |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1
How to Prepare
- Scoop vanilla ice cream into a serving dish.
- Then, top with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Lastly, drizzle with warm chocolate sauce.
Serving Tips
Serve Dame Blanche immediately after preparing to ensure the perfect contrast between the ice cream and warm chocolate sauce. This dessert is ideal as a quick yet elegant treat.
Unique and Exotic
16. Disney Dole Whip
Disney Dole Whip is a refreshing and light pineapple-flavored soft-serve ice cream that has gained a cult following for its popularity in Disney parks.
This tropical treat is perfect for cooling down on hot summer days or enjoying a sweet, fruity dessert.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen pineapple chunks | 2 cups |
| Pineapple juice | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla ice cream or coconut milk | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
How to Prepare
- To make Disney Dole Whip at home, blend frozen pineapple chunks with vanilla ice cream or coconut milk until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the soft serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Tips
Serve Disney Dole Whip in a cone or a cup garnished with a wedge of fresh pineapple for an authentic presentation. This sweet and tangy dessert is ideal for outdoor gatherings or refreshing snacks.
17. Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche, creating an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Graham crackers (crushed) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/3 cup |
| Cream cheese | 16 oz |
| Dulce de leche | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Preparation Time: 1 hour plus chilling
Servings: 12 bars
How to Prepare
- To make these decadent bars, start by preparing a graham cracker crust.
- Then, mix cream cheese with dulce de leche and pour the mixture over the crust.
- Bake until set, then chill before cutting into bars.
Serving Tips
Cut the chilled cheesecake into bars and serve as a decadent treat at any gathering or celebration. These rich and creamy bars are sure to impress your guests.
18. Date Squares
Date Squares are a sweet and chewy dessert with a luscious date filling sandwiched between layers of buttery oat crumble. These comforting bars are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a wholesome snack.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (chopped) | 3 cups |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Oats | 1 1/2 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 3/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
How to Prepare
- To make Date Squares, simmer pitted dates with water until they form a thick paste.
- Then, layer an oat crumble mixture in a baking dish with the date filling.
- Bake until golden brown and let cool before cutting into squares.
Serving Tips
Date Squares are best served at room temperature or slightly warmed. They make a comforting and wholesome dessert with a cup of tea or coffee.
19. Dark Chocolate Truffles
Dark Chocolate Truffles are luxuriously smooth and rich confections crafted from high-quality dark chocolate. These melt-in-your-mouth treats offer an indulgent and sophisticated dessert experience.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate (chopped) | 8 oz |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Cocoa powder (for dusting) | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 2 hours (including setting time)
Servings: 20
How to Prepare
- To create Dark Chocolate Truffles, start by melting dark chocolate with heavy cream and unsalted butter to form a smooth ganache.
- Chill the mixture until set, roll it into small balls, and dust it with cocoa powder for a classic finish.
Serving Tips
Dark Chocolate Truffles make an elegant and indulgent after-dinner treat. They can also be beautifully packaged and gifted in decorative boxes for a special occasion.
20. Diples
Diples are a traditional Greek dessert made from thin, crispy dough fried until golden, then drenched in a sweet honey syrup and sprinkled with chopped nuts.
These crunchy and sticky treats are a beloved favorite at celebrations and festive gatherings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Orange juice | 1/4 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Honey | 1 cup |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Servings: Multiple, depending on size
How to Prepare
- To make Diples, prepare a thin, pliable dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into strips, then fry them until golden brown.
- Immediately drizzle the fried dough with honey syrup and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Serving Tips
Diples are best served immediately while still crispy and warm. They make a stunning and indulgent dessert perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
Seasonal and Festive
21. Death by Chocolate Ice Cream
Death by Chocolate Ice Cream is an indulgent, no-churn ice cream packed with rich chocolate flavor and studded with chunks of fudgy brownies.
This over-the-top dessert is perfect for satisfying intense chocolate cravings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/2 cup |
| Chocolate chunks | 1/2 cup |
| Brownies (chopped) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes plus freezing
Servings: 8
How to Prepare
- Mix condensed milk with cocoa powder until smooth to make Death by Chocolate Ice Cream.
- Fold in whipped cream and brownie chunks.
- Then, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until set.
Serving Tips
Serve this decadent ice cream in bowls or cones, garnished with extra brownie pieces or a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce for an over-the-top presentation.
22. Dirt Cake
Dirt Cake is a playful and nostalgic dessert that resembles a pot of soil, made with layers of creamy chocolate pudding and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
This whimsical treat is often adorned with gummy worms for a fun and realistic touch.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chocolate pudding mix | 2 packages (4 oz each) |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Whipped topping | 12 oz |
| Oreo cookies (crushed) | 15 oz |
| Gummy worms | 10-15 |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
How to Prepare
- To assemble a Dirt Cake, prepare chocolate pudding according to package instructions.
- Layer the pudding and crushed Oreo cookies in a clear container.
- Then, top with gummy worms for a playful presentation.
Serving Tips
Serve Dirt Cake in individual cups or a large glass dish to showcase the distinct layers. This fun and whimsical dessert is perfect for Halloween parties or garden-themed gatherings.
23. Doberge Cake
Doberge Cake is a New Orleans specialty that consists of multiple thin layers of sponge cake alternating with creamy pudding or frosting, all covered in a smooth, shiny glaze.
This impressive dessert is a true showstopper at any celebration.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cake flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Lemon or chocolate pudding mix | 1 package |
| Fondant or chocolate glaze | As needed |
Preparation Time: Several hours, including assembly
Servings: 12-15 slices
How to Prepare
- To make a Doberge Cake, start by baking thin layers of sponge cake.
- Fill the layers with your choice of pudding or frosting
- Then, coat the entire cake with a smooth fondant or glaze for a polished finish.
Serving Tips
Slice the Doberge Cake to reveal the intricate layers. It is a stunning centerpiece dessert for birthdays, weddings, or other special occasions.
24. Danish Christmas Cake
Danish Christmas Cake, or Julekage, is a richly spiced cake filled with dried fruits that is traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season in Denmark.
This comforting and festive dessert is perfect for cozy winter gatherings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Almonds (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Candied peel | 1/2 cup |
| Raisins | 1/2 cup |
| Mixed spice | 1 tsp |
Preparation Time: Over 2 hours
Servings: Multiple
How to Prepare
- To make a Danish Christmas Cake, start by creaming butter and sugar.
- Then add eggs and fold in flour and spices.
- Mix in various dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and candied citrus peel, and bake until golden brown.
Serving Tips
Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar and serve alongside a warm mug of mulled wine for a cozy and festive treat.
25. Dutch Stroopwafels
Dutch Stroopwafels are a beloved treat featuring a layer of sweet, gooey caramel sandwiched between two thin, crispy waffle cookies.
These delightful cookies are traditionally enjoyed slightly warmed over a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Yeast | 1 packet |
| Eggs | 1 large |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Caramel (for filling) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Servings: 10-12
How to Prepare
- To make Dutch Stroopwafels, start by preparing a yeast-based dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut into rounds, then bake until crispy.
- Sandwich a layer of gooey caramel between two waffle cookies while still warm.
Serving Tips
Warm your Dutch Stroopwafels over hot coffee or tea to soften the caramel and release the warm, comforting aroma before enjoying.
Conclusion
From classic favorites to international delights, this list of mouthwatering desserts beginning with “D” showcases the incredible diversity and creativity of the sweet world.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy treat like dirt pudding or a more elaborate creation like a Danish pastry, there’s a dessert here to satisfy every craving.
These recipes offer endless possibilities for customization and experimentation, allowing you to put your unique spin on each dish.
So why not challenge yourself to make one of these delectable desserts at home? Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, seek out a local bakery specializing in international sweets and treat yourself to a taste of something new.
No matter how you choose to indulge, these desserts will surely bring a smile and joy to your taste buds.
