20 Best 2-Ingredient Recipes for Quick and Easy Cooking!

Sometimes, the best recipes are the simplest ones. When life feels overwhelming, there’s something deeply comforting about making a dish that requires just two ingredients.

These recipes prove that good food doesn’t have to be complicated—whether it’s a creamy banana ice cream or a crispy cheese crisp, they’re effortless and surprisingly delicious.

I remember discovering the magic of two-ingredient recipes during a tough time in my life. Cooking felt exhausting, but I still wanted something homemade.

That’s when I started experimenting—melting chocolate over peanut butter, whipping cream into butter, or just roasting sweet potatoes until they caramelized. Something was healing about keeping it simple, letting the ingredients shine, and still ending up with something satisfying.

This collection of 20 two-ingredient recipes is for those moments when you need ease without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re short on time, feeling uninspired, or just craving something quick and homemade, these recipes will remind you that food can be joyful, even in its simplest form. Let’s dive into the easiest, tastiest creations you’ll ever make!

1. Marzipan Cake

Soft almond-scented cake, a hint of vanilla, and that irresistible marzipan sweetness—this dessert feels like a love letter in cake form. Its golden, slightly chewy edges and delicate crumb make it the perfect treat for a cozy Valentine’s evening.

Traditionally a European favorite, marzipan brings a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of dark chocolate. Whether you’re baking for someone special or just yourself (because you deserve it!), this cake is an effortless way to bring a little romance to the table.

Servings: 12 slices

Ingredients:

• 14 oz marzipan
• 8 eggs
• powdered sugar and strawberries for decoration optional

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Cut the marzipan into small pieces and place them in a food processor.
• Add eggs two at a time, blending until smooth and lump-free.
• Butter a springform pan and pour the batter into it.
• Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes.
• Reduce heat to 230°F (110°C) and bake for another 65-70 minutes.
• Start checking after 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean.
• Turn off the oven and let the cake rest inside for 10 minutes.
• Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

2. Roasted Garlic Compound Butter

This might just be the easiest way to elevate a romantic dinner. Roasted garlic melts into butter, creating a golden, fragrant spread that turns warm bread, seared steak, or even roasted veggies into something unforgettable.

The deep, caramelized sweetness of slow-roasted garlic blends with creamy butter for a rich, almost indulgent flavor that’s perfect for a date night at home. Keep a batch in the fridge, and you’ll have an instant upgrade to any meal. Just a smear of this magic, and you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it.

Servings: 16 servings

Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter at room temperature
• 30 cloves roasted garlic

Instructions:

Roast Garlic

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
• Toss garlic cloves in olive oil until fully coated.
• Spread garlic evenly on the baking sheet and sprinkle with kosher salt.
• Roast for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and soft.
• Check after 35 minutes, as cooking time varies by garlic size and variety.

Compound Butter

• Mash roasted garlic and butter together in a bowl or molcajete.
• Shape into a cylinder using plastic wrap, parchment, or waxed paper.
• Refrigerate until firm, then slice and use as needed.

3. Peanut Butter Cookies

These melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cookies require just two ingredients—yes! No flour, no fuss, just pure peanutty goodness with a crisp edge and soft, chewy center. Originating as a simple Depression-era recipe, they’ve stood the test of time for a reason.

Valentine’s Day calls for something sweet, and these cookies deliver in the simplest, most satisfying way. Dunk them in milk, drizzle with chocolate, or enjoy them straight off the tray—either way, they’re love at first bite.

Servings: 12 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter sugar-free
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup

Instructions:

• Mix peanut butter and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth.
• Cover the bowl with cling film and freeze for 1 hour.
• Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
• Scoop 12 cookies onto the tray, leaving space between them.
• Press a fork gently on top to make a crosshatch pattern.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm and golden.
• Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

4. Small Batch Strawberry Jam

Nothing says romance quite like homemade jam, and this small-batch strawberry version is perfect for breakfast in bed. Juicy, ruby-red berries cook down into a glossy, spoonable spread bursting with natural sweetness.

The best part? It takes just two ingredients—strawberries and sugar—to create something truly special. Slather it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or pair it with soft cheese for a simple yet luxurious Valentine’s treat.

Servings: 2 cups

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (cleaned, hulled and chopped)
• 1 cup sugar

Instructions:

• Add strawberries and sugar to a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir until the sugar melts and the berries release their juices.
• Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Let it boil for 10-12 minutes until the jam thickens.
• Remove from heat and pour into a heatproof container.
• Let it cool before storing.

5. Buffalo Wing Sauce

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all about chocolate and roses—sometimes, a little heat is the way to the heart. This two-ingredient buffalo wing sauce is fiery, buttery, and essential for crispy wings, spicy dips, or even drizzling over roasted cauliflower.

The combination of hot sauce and melted butter creates a silky, punchy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. If your Valentine loves bold flavors, this is the recipe to make.

Servings: 14 people

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Hot Sauce like Franks Red Hot
• ¾ cup Butter

Instructions:

• In a small saucepan, add hot sauce and butter.
• Place over medium-low heat.
• Stir constantly until the butter melts and combines for about 5 minutes.
• Remove from heat.
• Pour into a heatproof container.
• Serve and enjoy!

6. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Bread

Ice cream… in bread form? Yes, and it’s just as dreamy as it sounds! This two-ingredient wonder transforms melted Ben & Jerry’s into a fluffy, cake-like loaf that’s subtly sweet with a perfectly tender crumb.

The best part? You can switch up the flavor depending on your favorite pint—Chocolate Fudge Brownie for a rich Valentine’s treat, or Cherry Garcia for a fruity, romantic twist. No yeast, no complicated steps, just pure ice cream magic in bread form.

Servings:

Ingredients:

• 1 pint Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice cream, melted
• 1 pint Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie ice cream, melted
• 3 cups self-rising flour, divided in half

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9” x 5” loaf pan with cooking spray.
• Divide the flour evenly between two bowls (1 ½ cups in each).
• Melt ice cream pints in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals until fully melted.
• Mix one melted pint with one flour bowl and the other pint with the second flour bowl. Stir well.
• Scoop batter into the pan in a checkerboard pattern, then swirl with a skewer.
• Cover with a foil tent and bake for 30-40 minutes, then remove foil and bake for 20 more minutes.
• Let cool, slice, and serve as is or with ice cream and chocolate syrup!

7. Easy Chocolate Mousse

Silky, airy, and deeply chocolatey, this two-ingredient mousse is the Valentine’s dessert you need in your life. A French classic made effortlessly simple, it relies on just chocolate and cream to create a luxuriously smooth texture that melts on your tongue.

Spoon it into delicate glasses, top with whipped cream or berries, and you have a dessert that feels decadent but comes together in minutes. Whether you’re making it for a date night or a little self-love indulgence, this one is pure romance.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs separated
• 110 g plain chocolate/semi-sweet up to 75% cocoa solids

Instructions:

• Put egg yolks in a large bowl and stir.
• Melt chocolate in a bain-marie or microwave (30-second bursts at 50% power). Let cool slightly.
• Whip egg whites to medium peaks.
• Stir melted chocolate into the yolks.
• Gently fold in egg whites using a metal spoon.
• Divide into 4 serving dishes.
• Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.

8. Pumpkin Muffins

Cozy, spiced, and oh-so-soft, these pumpkin muffins bring all the fall flavors to your Valentine’s Day celebration. With just two ingredients—pumpkin purée and cake mix—you’ll get bakery-quality muffins that taste like they took hours to make.

The natural sweetness of the pumpkin keeps them moist, while warm spices make each bite feel like a hug. Enjoy them with coffee in the morning or as a quick dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings:

Ingredients:

• 1 15-oz box spice cake mix
• 1 15-oz can of pumpkin puree
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
• In a large bowl, mix spice cake mix, water, and pumpkin until smooth.
• Fill each muffin liner about ¾ full with batter.
• Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool before serving. Enjoy!

9. Orange Angel Food Cake

Light as air, subtly sweet, and kissed with citrus, this two-ingredient orange angel food cake is the refreshing treat your Valentine’s Day needs. The delicate, fluffy texture comes from the magic of boxed angel food cake mix and fresh orange juice, creating a cloud-like cake with just the right amount of brightness. It’s perfect with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra-special touch.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 box angel food cake mix the “just add water” kind
• 1 15 oz. can mandarin oranges in water do not drain

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F and move the middle rack to the bottom.
• In a large bowl, mix one box of angel food cake mix with a 15 oz. can of mandarin oranges (with juice).
• Beat on low for 30 seconds, then on medium for 1 minute until fluffy.
• Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan and run a knife through to remove air bubbles.
• Bake as directed on the cake mix box until the top is dark golden brown with dry cracks.
• Remove from the oven and immediately turn the pan upside down.
• Let the cake cool completely for 1 ½ to 2 hours.
• Serve with fresh fruit and whipped ricotta or whipped cream.

10. Chocolate Frosting

The easiest, creamiest chocolate frosting ever—made with just two ingredients! This rich, glossy frosting is thick enough to spread on cakes and cupcakes but smooth enough to melt perfectly over warm brownies.

The secret? Melted chocolate and whipped cream combine to create a velvety, decadent topping with a deep cocoa flavor. Whether you’re making a last-minute Valentine’s dessert or just need a quick chocolate fix, this frosting delivers.

Servings: 20 people

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup coconut cream chilled
• 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Add chilled coconut cream to a large mixing bowl.
• Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time.
• Pour melted chocolate into the coconut cream and whisk until smooth.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to thicken.
• Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
• Beat with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
• Spread or pipe onto cakes, brownies, cupcakes, or muffins.

11. Blueberry Cake

Juicy bursts of blueberry goodness meet a light, fluffy cake in this unbelievably easy 2-ingredient recipe. No mixers, no fuss—just a simple, delicious treat that tastes like a warm hug. The natural sweetness of the berries melds beautifully into the batter, creating a dessert that’s as effortless as it is impressive.

Whether you’re baking for your sweetheart or treating yourself, this cake is pure joy in every bite. Top it with powdered sugar, or go all out with a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings: 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1 can Blueberry Pie Filling, 21 ounces
• 1 box Angel Food Cake Mix
• Optional: Fresh blueberries.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Pour the cake mix into a bowl.
• Add the can of pie filling and stir until just combined.
• Transfer batter to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Bake for 28-35 minutes.
• When golden and a toothpick comes out clean, remove from the oven.
• Let cool before serving.

12. White Chocolate Whipped Cream Frosting

This dreamy, cloud-like frosting is as romantic as it gets. Silky white chocolate melts into freshly whipped cream, creating a lusciously smooth topping that elevates any dessert. It’s the kind of frosting that makes cakes, cupcakes, and even spoonfuls straight from the bowl taste like a little love letter.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day, this recipe is proof that sometimes, simplicity is the most delicious choice.

Servings: 12 people

Ingredients:

• 1 litre whipping cream (33% -35% fat) / heavy cream (* 4 cups)
• 8 ounces -(2 bars) of white baking chocolate

Instructions:

• Microwave chopped white chocolate at 50% power for 3 minutes. Heat heavy cream separately until warm.
• Pour warm cream into melted chocolate, stir, and continue microwaving in 20-second intervals until smooth.
• Let cool, then transfer to a mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
• Once chilled, whip on low speed, gradually increasing to high, until light and fluffy with stiff peaks.
• Use as frosting for cakes, cupcakes, or any recipe needing whipped cream.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

13. Oat & Applesauce Pie Crust

Who knew that a flaky, golden pie crust could be this simple? Made with just oats and applesauce, this crust brings a subtly sweet, nutty depth to any pie. It’s crisp around the edges, tender in the center, and packed with wholesome flavor.

Whether you’re making a berry-filled dessert or a creamy custard, this 2-ingredient crust sets the perfect foundation. Plus, no rolling pins are required!

Servings: 8 people

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup oats ground coarsely makes about 1 cup
• 1/2 cup applesauce

Instructions:

• Microwave chopped white chocolate at 50% power for 3 minutes. Heat heavy cream separately until warm.
• Pour warm cream into melted chocolate, stir, and continue microwaving in 20-second intervals until smooth.
• Let cool, then transfer to a mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
• Once chilled, whip on low speed, gradually increasing to high, until light and fluffy with stiff peaks.
• Use as frosting for cakes, cupcakes, or any recipe needing whipped cream.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

14. Oreo Mug Cake

When late-night chocolate cravings hit, this 2-ingredient Oreo mug cake is the answer. In just minutes, a soft, fudgy cake emerges from the microwave, loaded with cookies and cream goodness.

It’s the kind of effortless treat that feels like a hug in dessert form—perfect for a solo Valentine’s indulgence or a quick sweet fix.

Servings: 1 people

Ingredients:

• 4 Oreo cookies
• 3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

• Crush Oreos into tiny pieces using a food processor or a ziplock bag and a rolling pin.
• Transfer crushed Oreos to a mug or microwavable cup.
• Add 3 tablespoons of milk and mix until a batter forms.
• Microwave for 1 minute until set.
• Enjoy immediately plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
• Serve with a cold glass of milk if desired.

15. Oatcake Wraps

Forget store-bought tortillas—these oatcake wraps are hearty, flexible, and packed with rustic flavor. With just two ingredients, they come together in minutes, ready to cradle anything from creamy spreads to crisp veggies.

Perfect for a Valentine’s brunch or a cozy lunch, they’re soft yet sturdy, with a lightly toasted aroma that makes every bite irresistible.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 150g ground oats (1¼ cups approx)
• 250ml water (1 cup)
• Big pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

• Grind oats into a fine texture using a food processor or blender, or buy ground oats.
• Mix oats with water, salt, and pepper in a jug, whisking until smooth.
• Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken, then stir again. Adjust thickness by adding water or more oats as needed.
• Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan until very hot.
• Pour a quarter of the batter onto the skillet and spread it out with a spoon.
• Cook for a couple of minutes, then gently lift the edges with a spatula. Flip once lightly browned and cook for another minute.
• Place cooked wraps between a tea towel or paper towels to soften for 10-15 minutes.
• Fill with your favorite dips, salads, or beans, and enjoy!

16. Coconut Macaroons

Sweet, chewy, and kissed with golden edges, these coconut macaroons are pure indulgence. Inspired by the classic French treat, this 2-ingredient version keeps it simple without losing an ounce of flavor.

The coconut toasts beautifully as it bakes, filling your kitchen with the warm, nutty scent of love. Whether dipped in chocolate or enjoyed as is, these are the perfect little Valentine’s Day bites.

Servings: 30 people

Ingredients:

• 28 ounces of sweetened shredded coconut
• 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Mix coconut and sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, then stir again.
• Scoop 1-tablespoon portions onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
• Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.
• Transfer to a cooling rack or airtight container.
• If desired, dip in melted chocolate and place on wax paper to set.
• Enjoy your macaroons!

17. Sesame Paste

A staple in Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines, this silky sesame paste adds a deep, nutty richness to both sweet and savory dishes.

Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted vegetables or stirring it into a dessert, its velvety texture and warm, toasty aroma make every dish feel special. And the best part? You only need two ingredients.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white hulled sesame seeds
• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

Instructions:

• Toast sesame seeds in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring often until golden and aromatic.
• Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
• Spread toasted seeds on a baking sheet and let them cool for 10 minutes.
• Transfer cooled seeds to a food processor with a blade attachment.
• Blend for 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides.
• Add oil and continue blending for another 3 minutes until smooth.

18. Healthy Coconut Bites

These no-bake coconut bites are everything: chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with tropical flavor. Made with just two ingredients, they’re the kind of snack you’ll reach for when you need a little something sweet without the guilt.

Whether it’s a Valentine’s treat or an everyday pick-me-up, these bites deliver pure, simple goodness.

Servings:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 100 gr dark 70% chocolate

Instructions:

• Make the coconut paste – Blend 1 1/2 cups of shredded coconut in a food processor for about 6 minutes until smooth but slightly grainy. Scrape the sides as needed.
• Make the coconut mixture – Transfer the paste to a bowl, add the remaining 1 cup of shredded coconut, and mix well.
• Prepare for shaping – Line a baking sheet or cutting board with parchment paper.
• Using a silicone ice cube tray: Fill half the tray with the coconut mixture, press it down, then add the rest and press tightly. Refrigerate for 2 hours.
• Remove from tray – Once firm, gently bend the tray to pop out the coconut bites.
• Using a measuring spoon: Chill the coconut mixture for 15-20 minutes.
• Scoop with a 1/2-tablespoon measuring spoon, press firmly, and pop out onto parchment paper with the flat side down.
• Refrigerate for 1 hour until firm. Enjoy!

19. Creamy Peanut Butter Dip

Thick, luscious, and made for dipping, this peanut butter dip is what snack dreams are made of. Whether you’re dunking strawberries, apple slices, or just a spoon straight in, the creamy, nutty richness makes every bite satisfying.

It’s the kind of effortless recipe that feels fancy but takes almost no time to whip up—perfect for Valentine’s date night snacks.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup vanilla Greek yogurt or honey, coconut, banana yogurt, etc.

Instructions:

• Mix peanut butter and yogurt in a bowl until smooth.
• Serve with apples, bananas, crackers, or pretzels.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

20. Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge

Rich, smooth, and packed with the classic peanut butter-chocolate combo, this 2-ingredient fudge is dangerously easy to make.

Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering that perfect balance of nutty depth and chocolatey sweetness. Whether you’re making a Valentine’s gift or just treating yourself, this is one dessert that disappears fast.

Servings: 60 pieces

Ingredients:

• 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Cut into pieces and enjoy!
• Line a dish with parchment paper and set aside.
• Place peanut butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave on high for 80 seconds, then stir until smooth.
• If needed, microwave for another 20 seconds and stir again.
• Pour the mixture into the lined dish and refrigerate for at least an hour.