12 Canned Foods You Should Be Using For Easy Desserts

Peaches

If you enjoy fruity desserts, having canned peaches in your pantry is essential. Their tender texture and sweet taste make them incredibly adaptable, whether enjoyed as a snack or combined with other ingredients to create a delightful pudding. While fresh peaches are wonderful when they’re ripe and in season, canned peaches provide a reliable option for soft fruit all year round.

There are many simple desserts you can whip up with canned peaches, but for an exceptionally easy and indulgent treat, consider making a peach puff pastry bake. These mini strudels can serve as either a dessert or a pastry, and you can modify the sweetness based on the type of canned peaches you choose. If you prefer the natural sweetness of the fruit, opt for peaches packed in their own juice; otherwise, a can in syrup will offer an extra touch of sweetness.

To simplify the preparation, purchase pre-rolled puff pastry. Just unroll it and cut it into four or six squares, depending on your desired size for the peach puffs. Arrange the canned peach slices on each square, leaving some space around the edges. If you like, drizzle some syrup on top and sprinkle with cinnamon for added flavor. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown.

Coconut milk

If you believed that panna cotta was a complex dessert reserved for expert chefs, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. With just a can of coconut milk, you can whip up a simple panna cotta that will wow your family, who will think you spent hours crafting it.

Coconut milk is an excellent non-dairy alternative that can substitute for cream or yogurt in creating delightful plant-based desserts. Opting for canned coconut milk for baking is better than using a carton, as the latter is typically thinner and meant for drinking. Be sure to shake the can thoroughly before opening, as the cream often separates.

To keep this dessert vegan, you can use agar, a plant-based alternative that helps the panna cotta set. The advantage of agar over gelatin is that it sets more effectively and quickly at room temperature, allowing your dessert to be ready to enjoy sooner. Maple syrup is the ideal sweetener for the vegan version of this panna cotta, but you can substitute honey if you prefer.

In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, maple syrup, and agar, and simmer on low heat while whisking for a few minutes. If you choose agar flakes instead of powder, you’ll need to whisk a bit longer and heat it until fully dissolved. Pour the mixture into ramekins and chill for at least an hour, then serve topped with your favorite fruit.

Pineapple

Pineapple is a delightful tropical fruit that can bring a refreshing burst of flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. However, preparing a pineapple can be a daunting task for many, as the idea of tackling its spiky skin and tough core can deter us from purchasing it altogether. That's where canned pineapple comes in, offering its vibrant, sweet taste without the hassle of dealing with its thorny exterior. Using canned pineapple for desserts is not only quick and easy but also adds a nutritious twist to your sweet treats.

There are countless desserts you can create with canned pineapple, ranging from upside-down cakes to ice cream sundaes and even piña colada-inspired treats. If you're looking to try something a bit more unique, consider making pineapple burfi. This traditional Indian sweet, also known as barfi, typically requires hours of preparation when made the traditional way, but you can whip up a quick and easy fruity version with just three ingredients.

Simply drain a can of crushed pineapple and combine it with 1 ½ cans of condensed milk and a carton of sour cream. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 40 minutes. This delightful take on a classic Indian dessert will tantalize your taste buds with its creamy textures and vibrant flavors.

Condensed milk

If there's one fruit flavor that truly embodies summer, it's the zesty burst of fresh lime in a drink or dessert. Key lime pie highlights the incredible taste of limes in a rich and indulgent way, and with just a few essential ingredients, you can whip up a quick version of this pie in no time. Interestingly, the original Key lime pie wasn't baked, so this easy no-bake recipe is actually more authentic than the traditional one!

While many passionate home bakers might argue that a pie crust should be homemade, there's nothing wrong with using a pre-made crust when you're after a simple and speedy dessert. Opt for a crust made from Graham crackers for the best texture. For the filling, you'll need the juice of about six limes, along with a tablespoon of lime zest. Combine this with two cans of sweetened condensed milk, and once everything is mixed thoroughly, pour it into the pie crust. Let it chill overnight to set. Before serving, garnish with a bit more lime zest, and your dinner guests will be amazed at how effortlessly you created such a delightful dish.

Pumpkin pie mix

If you have a can of pumpkin pie mix in your pantry but don’t feel like going through the hassle of making a traditional homemade pumpkin pie, you can still satisfy your sweet tooth with a simpler version. With a can of evaporated milk, a pre-made pie crust, and a couple of eggs, you can significantly reduce your prep time while still enjoying a delicious pie.

Using canned pumpkin pie mix is the secret to keeping this recipe straightforward, as the filling is already perfectly spiced and sweetened, eliminating the need to measure out dry ingredients. For the pie crust, opt for a 9-inch deep dish shell; if you choose a shallow crust, you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly.

In a large bowl, beat two eggs, then add ? cup of evaporated milk and the can of pumpkin pie mix. Mix everything together thoroughly to create the filling, then pour it into the pie shell. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350 degrees and continue baking for an additional 50 minutes (if using a shallow pie, bake for 40 more minutes instead).

This easy version of pumpkin pie is a fantastic family dessert when you're short on time, and its spiced flavors and comforting texture are sure to please everyone.

Pears

Pears are a delicious and nutritious fruit that are delightful to enjoy when they are at their peak ripeness. However, when they are out of season, canned pears serve as an excellent alternative for incorporating these juicy fruits into desserts.

Using canned pears eliminates the wait for ripening, and opting for those packed in syrup means you won’t need to add much, if any, extra sugar. Pears offer numerous health benefits, including support for digestive health and potential protection against heart disease and cancer. While there are many scrumptious desserts you can create with canned pears, why not try a straightforward recipe that highlights the fruit's wholesome qualities? Baked pears are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the natural taste of the fruit to shine.

Simply drizzle canned halved pears with a blend of honey and cinnamon, then bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes. Using canned pears shortens the cooking time compared to fresh ones. The honey will form a lovely glaze, while the cinnamon adds a delightful hint of spice. Pears pair wonderfully with vanilla, so consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream for a touch of indulgence.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas in a dessert? You might be surprised to find them on this list, but incorporating chickpeas into sweet treats is a fantastic idea that adds a nutritional boost to your desserts. Their nutty flavor introduces earthy undertones that complement the sweeter elements, resulting in protein-packed dishes with rich flavor profiles.

For an easy chickpea-based sweet snack, mix them with peanut butter and maple syrup to whip up vegan blondies. These blondies, free from traditional butter and refined sugar, let you indulge in a delightful treat whenever you desire.

Begin by draining a can of chickpeas, but consider saving the liquid. Known as aquafaba, this liquid has unique properties that make it valuable in various baking applications, from substituting eggs to crafting vegan mozzarella. Blend the chickpeas with ¼ cup of maple syrup and half a cup of peanut butter—or any nut butter—until smooth. Then, add half a teaspoon of baking powder and blend for a few more seconds.

This will yield a basic blondie batter that can be baked in a tray for 25-30 minutes. Feel free to include any additional toppings you like, such as crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Serve this healthier version of blondies the next time you host friends for coffee, and enjoy their surprise when they discover the secret ingredient!

Mango

Fresh mango is a delightful tropical fruit known for its exquisite sweetness, making it a perfect addition to both savory dishes and desserts, including smoothies. However, finding a perfectly ripe mango can be tricky, and extracting the large pit without risking injury can be quite a task. The answer lies in canned mango — already peeled, pitted, and sliced, making it easy to incorporate this delectable fruit into your meals.

The vibrant flavor of mango pairs wonderfully with creamy textures like cheesecake or parfaits. If you're looking for an incredibly simple dessert that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, consider adding mango mousse to your recipe collection. With just three ingredients — canned mango, natural yogurt, and sweetened condensed milk — you can whip it up in minutes, providing a refreshing and tasty treat whenever you crave something sweet.

To make the mousse, simply drain the mango and cut it into cubes, then blend it with the can of condensed milk and two cups of natural yogurt. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, for the best texture. You can serve the mousse as is, allowing the fresh mango flavor to shine, or sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for an added crunch.

Cherries

If you’re eager to create your own ice cream but lack an ice cream maker or the patience for the churning process, canned cherries are the perfect solution. While cherries make for a delightful sweet treat, their pits can sometimes make them tricky to enjoy. Fortunately, canned cherries come with the pits already removed and are typically preserved in syrup or sauce, making them an excellent choice for a quick and simple dessert.

To prepare a fast and delicious ice cream, simply blend the cherries until smooth, then fold them into two cups of whipped heavy cream. Next, mix in a can of sweetened condensed milk and blend until everything is well combined.

Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least six hours, but for the best serving experience, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before scooping to ensure it’s easy to serve.

Rhubarb

Creating a dessert with rhubarb might seem intimidating due to its tartness compared to most fruits. However, when paired with the right ingredients, you can whip up a pudding that strikes a delightful balance between tangy and sweet.

Using canned rhubarb allows you to savor this unique fruit even when it's out of season, and if it's preserved in syrup, the tartness is softened by the sugar. To prepare simple rhubarb squares, you'll need two cups of rhubarb, chopped into small cubes. Combine a can of sweetened condensed milk with 1 ¼ cups of self-rising flour, then fold in the diced rhubarb. This will yield a thick batter that you can pour into a baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes, then cut into bite-sized squares for a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or serves as a lovely after-dinner dessert. If you’ve never tried a rhubarb dessert before, this is a straightforward and tasty way to begin!

Sweetcorn

When you're stocking up on canned goods that could double as desserts, you might not think to grab a couple of cans of corn. However, this unassuming vegetable is surprisingly versatile and can be used in puddings due to its sweet taste and creamy consistency. Since it's already cooked, you can skip the cooking process and dive right into creating some delightful treats.

Curau de Milho is a Brazilian dessert that can be whipped up in just a few minutes by using canned corn instead of the traditional fresh variety. By blending the corn with milk and sugar, you can create a sweet and creamy dish that is not only satisfying but also includes a serving of vegetables. Sweet corn is rich in fiber, making it a beneficial choice for your digestive health.

To make your curau, simply combine a can of corn, a cup of sugar, and 500ml of milk in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and stir in 200g of heavy cream. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until it reaches a pudding-like consistency. You can serve this delightful dessert warm or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Either way, a sprinkle of cinnamon will add a lovely warmth and enhance the aroma of this creamy pudding.

Canned apples

While apples are typically available throughout the year, having a can of apples in your pantry can be handy for quickly preparing a fruity dessert. The benefit of using canned apples is that they come pre-cored, peeled, and sliced, which significantly reduces prep time, especially when you're working with a large batch.

Creating a tasty apple Danish is a breeze with canned apples, particularly if you opt for ready-rolled puff pastry. To prepare the filling, combine the canned apples with a bit of the liquid from the can in a saucepan. Simmer for about 4-5 minutes to soften them, then stir in ? cup of sugar and take it off the heat—if your canned apples are packed in syrup, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar.

Next, cut your pre-rolled puff pastry into six rectangles. Place apple slices on three of the rectangles, then cover them with the remaining three to form parcels. Seal the edges to prevent the filling from leaking, and bake for 15 minutes. The outcome will be delightful sweet apple pastries that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.