Dessert Lovers Are Freaking Out Over These 15 Retro Recipes (2024)

There's a buzz in the dessert world as people are turning back the clock, embracing retro recipes that have made a surprising comeback. These 15 old-school desserts are capturing hearts with their straightforward yet satisfying flavors, reminiscent of a simpler time. Without relying on fancy ingredients or complex techniques, these treats are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic dessert-making

Gluten-free pouding chomeur with homemade date syrup

The gluten-free pouding chomeur with homemade date syrup is a comforting dessert that takes about 40 minutes to make. It combines the richness of date syrup with a gluten-free cake base, resulting in a moist, sweet treat. The simplicity of the main ingredients, which include dates, gluten-free flour, and eggs, allows the natural sweetness to shine through. This dessert offers a caramel-like flavor that dessert lovers find irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-free pouding chomeur with homemade date syrup

Raw Sweet Lime Bars

Raw sweet lime bars are a zesty and refreshing treat that can be prepared in about 20 minutes, plus chilling time. Main ingredients like cashews, coconut, and fresh lime juice come together to create a tangy flavor profile. These bars are finished with a sprinkle of lavender and bee pollen, adding a subtle floral note. They are a hit for those seeking a raw, nutritious dessert option that doesn't compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Raw Sweet Lime Bars

Pear Chocolate Granola Bars

Pear chocolate granola bars take roughly 50 minutes to create and are a delightful combination of juicy pears and rich chocolate chips. The bars are held together with oats and honey, resulting in a chewy texture. They are a perfect snack for those who appreciate the balance of fruit and chocolate. These granola bars offer a satisfying crunch with a hint of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Pear Chocolate Granola Bars

Gluten-free apple cake

The gluten-free apple cake requires about 1 hour and 10 minutes to make and is a moist, spiced delight. Apples, cinnamon, and gluten-free flour are the stars of this cake, providing a warm, comforting taste. This cake is well-loved for its soft texture and the way it highlights the natural sweetness of apples. It's a nostalgic nod to classic flavors that dessert enthusiasts adore.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-free apple cake

Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce

Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce is a decadent dessert that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare. The cake is sweetened with honey and loaded with chunks of apple, offering a moist and flavorful base. The salted caramel sauce drizzled on top introduces a perfect balance of salty and sweet. This dessert is a favorite for its rich taste and luxurious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce

Paleo strawberry scones

Paleo strawberry scones, which take about 35 minutes to make, are a delightful treat for those following a paleo diet. Made with almond flour, fresh strawberries, and honey, these scones are both nutritious and delicious. They boast a tender crumb with bursts of fruity flavor. These scones are a popular choice for a guilt-free indulgence that still satisfies a sweet tooth.
Get the Recipe: Paleo strawberry scones

Cherry cobbler

Cherry cobbler, ready in about 45 minutes, is a crowd-pleaser with its bubbly, tart cherry filling and a biscuit-like topping. The main ingredients include fresh cherries, gluten-free flour, and a touch of sugar to enhance the cherries' natural sweetness. This dessert is cherished for its comforting, homey taste and the contrast between the soft filling and the crisp topping. It's a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
Get the Recipe: Gluten free cherry cobbler

Raspberry mini pavlovas

Raspberry mini pavlovas take about 1 hour and 15 minutes to create and are a sophisticated choice for dessert lovers. The pavlovas have a crisp exterior and a marshmallow-soft interior, topped with fresh raspberries and a dollop of cream. These elegant desserts are made with egg whites, sugar, and a hint of vinegar. Their light, airy texture and the tartness of the raspberries make them a sought-after treat.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry mini pavlovas

Vanilla cake with yogurt crema, roasted figs and hazelnuts

Vanilla cake with yogurt crema, roasted figs, and hazelnuts is a refined dessert that requires about 1 hour to prepare. The cake itself is sweetened with stevia and paired with a tangy yogurt crema. Topped with roasted figs and hazelnuts, it offers a unique combination of textures and flavors. This dessert is a favorite for its subtle sweetness and the richness of the roasted toppings.
Get the Recipe: Vanilla cake with yogurt crema, roasted figs and hazelnuts

Sticky Date Pudding with Pinot Noir

Sticky date pudding with Pinot Noir is a luxurious dessert that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to make. Dates and Pinot Noir wine are the key ingredients, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. The pudding is moist and dense, with a deep caramel-like taste. It's a classic dessert that has been reimagined, much to the delight of those with a penchant for rich flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Date Pudding with Pinot Noir

Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

Vegan gluten-free pumpkin pie is a seasonal favorite that can be prepared in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This pie uses pumpkin puree, a blend of warming spices, and a gluten-free crust to deliver the classic pumpkin pie taste. It's creamy and smooth, with a flavor that's both spicy and sweet. This pie is a staple for those who enjoy plant-based and gluten-free options without sacrificing traditional holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

No-bake chocolate pistachio cake is a decadent dessert that can be assembled in about 20 minutes, plus chilling time. It features layers of chocolate and crushed pistachios, with a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. The combination of chocolate and pistachios offers a rich and nutty flavor. This cake is a hit for its ease of preparation and indulgent taste.
Get the Recipe: No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

Chocolate Hazelnut Bars

Chocolate hazelnut bars are a delightful treat that requires about 30 minutes to make. They are made with a chocolate base and a crunchy hazelnut topping, creating a satisfying texture contrast. The flavors of chocolate and hazelnut complement each other perfectly, offering a nutty sweetness. These bars are a popular choice for a quick and easy dessert that doesn't compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hazelnut Bars

Almond apple cake with apple roses

Almond apple cake with apple roses takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to prepare and is a beautiful dessert that combines the flavors of almonds and apples. The cake is adorned with apple slices arranged into rose shapes, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. With a base of almond flour and sweetened with honey, it offers a moist texture and a subtle nuttiness. This cake is a favorite for its elegant presentation and delightful taste.
Get the Recipe: Almond apple cake with apple roses

Basil Peach Cobbler

Basil peach cobbler, ready in about 45 minutes, is a unique twist on the traditional cobbler. Fresh peaches and basil are the main ingredients, creating a sweet and herbaceous flavor profile. The cobbler is topped with a gluten-free biscuit crust that adds a satisfying crunch. This dessert is celebrated for its inventive combination of flavors and its comforting, rustic appeal.
Get the Recipe: Basil Peach Cobbler