easy dessert recipe for a crowd
The Best easy dessert recipe for a crowd
I first discovered it years ago when I was looking for something to make for a potluck, and it became an instant hit. The texture is just right—soft and tender, not too crumbly, not too dense—so it holds up well to serving with coffee or tea, and it’s always a hit with kids who think it’s like a chewy, fun snack. It’s not overly sweet, so it’s not overwhelming for picky eaters, but it’s sweet enough to satisfy cravings. Plus, it’s made with whole grains and natural sweeteners, so it’s a little healthier than your average dessert, which is nice when you’re trying to make mindful choices without sacrificing taste. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little treat for yourself, but it’s also something you can make ahead and store in the fridge for days, so you’re not stuck with a half-baked mess. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel good about yourself—like you did something simple but thoughtful for your family.
One-Pan Cheesy Tomato Bake for a Crowd
A simple, shareable dessert that combines creamy tomato sauce with a buttery, cheesy dough for a comforting bite. Perfect for potlucks or a quick dessert after dinner.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Stir in shredded cheese until evenly distributed. -
3
In a separate bowl, combine tomato sauce, minced garlic, and heavy cream. Pour sauce evenly over the dough on the baking sheet. -
4
Use a fork to gently press the dough into the sauce, creating a uniform layer. Bake for 20 minutes. -
5
Reduce heat to 375°F and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the top is golden and edges pull away slightly.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Mixing spoon
- Baking parchment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How One-Pan Cheesy Tomato Bake for a Crowd Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Cheesy Tomato Bake for a Crowd
How do I adjust the recipe for larger groups?
Yes, this recipe scales easily. Double the batter for up to 12 servings, then bake in two 9-inch round pans. For 18+ servings, use three pans and maintain a consistent 350°F oven temperature. Stir the batter gently before adding to pans to prevent overmixing.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving to keep it soft and moist. For extra fluffiness, let the baked cake cool slightly before frosting.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No mixer needed! Use a hand mixer or whisk for creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. For the batter, whisk the wet ingredients together and fold in the dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing. A wooden spoon works fine for mixing the batter.
How can I make the frosting thicker?
To thicken the frosting, let it cool for 10–15 minutes after making it. Alternatively, mix in 1–2 tablespoons of powdered sugar or a splash of heavy cream to adjust consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk or cream.
What substitutions work for common allergens?
For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (like almond or rice flour) in place of all-purpose flour. For dairy-free, substitute coconut oil for butter and use dairy-free vanilla extract. For nut-free, ensure all ingredients (like vanilla extract) are certified nut-free.
