15+ Tasty Olive Garden Mini Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

When it comes to Italian dining, Olive Garden has long been a favorite for its hearty pasta dishes, flavorful salads, and of course, its indulgent desserts.

But if you’re looking for a lighter, more convenient way to satisfy your sweet cravings, mini desserts are the perfect option.

From rich, creamy panna cottas to tangy lemon desserts and decadent chocolate treats, mini desserts are a fun, portion-controlled way to enjoy all the sweet flavors Olive Garden has to offer.

In this post, we’ve gathered over 15 mouth-watering mini dessert recipes inspired by Olive Garden’s delicious offerings.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a little Italian sweetness, these recipes are sure to impress.

Ready to explore the ultimate collection of bite-sized Italian-inspired desserts? Let’s dive in!

15+ Tasty Olive Garden Mini Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

These 15+ Olive Garden-inspired mini dessert recipes prove that good things really do come in small packages.

With a variety of flavors and textures—from creamy custards to rich chocolatey treats—each mini dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the indulgence of Italian sweets without the guilt of a large portion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these mini desserts are ideal for any occasion.

With their charming presentation and irresistible flavors, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.

So go ahead, treat yourself and your guests to a taste of Italy with these easy-to-make, delightful mini desserts.

Mini Tiramisu Cups

Tiramisu is one of Olive Garden’s signature desserts, known for its creamy layers of mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and dusting of cocoa. These mini tiramisu cups take that classic flavor and condense it into bite-sized servings, making them perfect for parties or after-dinner treats. The layers of creamy mascarpone blend with the bold espresso for a rich, yet light dessert that’s just the right amount of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 12 ladyfinger cookies, broken into small pieces
• 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Cocoa powder for dusting
• Mini dessert cups or shot glasses

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and thick.
2. Assemble the Cups: Dip the broken pieces of ladyfinger cookies into the cooled espresso, letting them soak for a few seconds. Place a soaked piece at the bottom of each dessert cup.
3. Layer: Add a spoonful of the mascarpone mixture on top of the soaked ladyfinger. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfinger and mascarpone mixture until the cups are filled.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve: Before serving, dust each mini cup with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

These mini tiramisu cups capture the essence of the traditional dessert in a compact, delightful serving. Perfect for any gathering, they allow you to enjoy the full flavor of tiramisu without needing a large slice. Enjoy the classic Italian taste with every bite!

Chocolate Amaretto Mousse Cups

This mini dessert is a rich, creamy chocolate mousse with a hint of almond-flavored amaretto liqueur for a sophisticated twist. Inspired by the luxurious and layered flavors of Italian desserts, these mousse cups are a heavenly treat. With only a few ingredients, they’re surprisingly easy to make, and they deliver an elegant presentation that’s bound to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream, divided
• 1 tbsp amaretto liqueur (or almond extract for non-alcoholic version)
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• Whipped cream and shaved chocolate for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine: Slowly fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate, adding the amaretto liqueur. Mix until well-blended and smooth.
4. Chill and Layer: Divide the mousse mixture evenly into mini dessert cups, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Serve: Top each mini mousse cup with whipped cream and shaved chocolate before serving.

These chocolate amaretto mousse cups are ideal for chocolate lovers looking for something indulgent and unique. The amaretto adds a lovely almond undertone that elevates the dessert’s flavor, and each bite is wonderfully creamy and smooth. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic night in!

Mini Lemon Ricotta Cheesecakes

Inspired by the light and zesty flavors of Italian ricotta-based desserts, these mini lemon ricotta cheesecakes are creamy, bright, and perfectly portioned. They combine the richness of cheesecake with a hint of tangy lemon, creating a refreshing end to any meal. Served in individual cups, they’re easy to make ahead and a beautiful addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 graham crackers, crushed (or mini store-bought graham cracker crusts)
• Fresh berries and mint leaves for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
2. Prepare the Crust: Spoon a layer of crushed graham crackers into the bottom of each dessert cup.
3. Layer with Filling: Spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the graham cracker layer in each cup, filling almost to the top.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to set and meld.
5. Serve: Garnish each mini cheesecake with fresh berries and a small mint leaf before serving.

These mini lemon ricotta cheesecakes are light, refreshing, and tangy, offering a perfect balance to a heavier meal. The lemon brings a delightful zest, while the creamy ricotta adds a unique Italian flair. Serve them for a touch of elegance and enjoy the simplicity of their sophisticated flavor!

Mini Cannoli Cups

Cannoli is a beloved Italian dessert that’s crisp on the outside with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling. These mini cannoli cups bring all the classic flavors of cannoli into a convenient, bite-sized dessert. With a mix of chocolate chips, a hint of orange zest, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these treats are a fun way to enjoy cannoli without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese, strained
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• Zest of half an orange
• Mini phyllo pastry cups or tart shells

Instructions

1. Make the Cannoli Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Extras: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest for that classic cannoli flavor.
3. Assemble the Cups: Spoon the mixture into the mini phyllo cups or tart shells.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the filling set. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar.

These mini cannoli cups are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian cannoli, offering the same creamy and crispy contrast in a convenient serving. They’re light, slightly sweet, and perfect for satisfying a craving without the commitment of a whole cannoli!

Espresso Panna Cotta with Chocolate Shavings

Panna cotta is an elegant Italian dessert known for its silky texture and rich creaminess. These mini espresso panna cottas combine the smoothness of panna cotta with the boldness of espresso for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying. Topped with chocolate shavings, these mini cups are a beautiful and easy way to end a meal with an Italian-inspired flair.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 tsp unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup water
• Chocolate shavings for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the vanilla extract and espresso powder.
3. Add Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is warm (but not boiling), add the bloomed gelatin and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Pour and Chill: Divide the mixture among mini dessert cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
5. Serve: Before serving, top with chocolate shavings for a touch of elegance.

These espresso panna cotta cups are the perfect way to combine creamy panna cotta with the robust flavor of espresso. They’re smooth, rich, and topped with a hint of chocolate, making them an ideal dessert for coffee lovers or anyone looking for a sophisticated treat!

Mini Strawberry Zabaglione Parfaits

Zabaglione is a traditional Italian dessert made from egg yolks, sugar, and wine, usually served as a light, fluffy custard. These mini strawberry zabaglione parfaits offer a twist by layering the custard with fresh strawberries for a refreshing and light dessert. Perfect for spring or summer, these parfaits are sweet, creamy, and bursting with fresh berry flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Marsala wine (or orange juice for non-alcoholic version)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• Mint leaves for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Make the Zabaglione: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and continue whisking until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Prepare Strawberries: In a small bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with powdered sugar to enhance their natural sweetness.
3. Layer the Parfaits: Spoon a layer of zabaglione into each mini cup, then add a layer of strawberries. Repeat until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of strawberries.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Garnish with a small mint leaf for a pop of color.

These mini strawberry zabaglione parfaits are light, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor. The zabaglione’s rich custard pairs beautifully with the juicy strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a delightful and elegant way to end a meal, especially on a warm day.

Mini Olive Oil Lemon Cake Cups

Lemon and olive oil are classic ingredients in Italian baking, known for creating moist, flavorful desserts that are both rich and light. These mini lemon cake cups highlight the zesty freshness of lemon with the subtle, fruity undertones of olive oil. Topped with a creamy lemon glaze, these desserts are a refreshing, elegant end to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large egg
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar and lemon juice for glaze
• Fresh berries for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
2. Combine and Bake: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Pour the batter into small, greased muffin tins or mini dessert cups.
3. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until a thick glaze forms. Drizzle over each cake.
5. Serve: Place each cake in a mini dessert cup, and top with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

These mini olive oil lemon cake cups are light, moist, and beautifully aromatic. The olive oil gives them a unique richness, while the lemon zest brightens the flavor, creating a balanced dessert with a perfect hint of sweetness. Enjoy these fresh bites for a refreshing taste of Italian baking!

Mini Nutella Cheesecake Cups

Nutella is adored worldwide, and pairing it with creamy cheesecake creates a decadent, irresistible dessert. These mini Nutella cheesecake cups are rich, chocolatey, and smooth, with a hint of hazelnut flavor that takes the indulgence to the next level. With a buttery graham cracker crust and whipped cream topping, these mini cheesecakes are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup Nutella
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press a small amount of this mixture into the bottom of each mini dessert cup.
2. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and Nutella together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cups: Spoon the Nutella cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each cup. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Serve: Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings just before serving.

These mini Nutella cheesecake cups are pure indulgence in a small package. The creamy Nutella filling pairs perfectly with the crunchy graham crust, making each spoonful rich and satisfying. They’re an ideal dessert for Nutella fans and perfect for a touch of chocolatey goodness after dinner.

Mini Italian Affogato Cups

Affogato is a simple yet sophisticated Italian dessert that combines vanilla gelato or ice cream with a shot of hot espresso. These mini affogato cups are a modern twist, served in individual cups for a fun presentation. The contrast of cold ice cream and hot espresso creates a creamy, coffee-infused dessert that’s both refreshing and energizing.

Ingredients

• 1 pint vanilla gelato or ice cream
• 1 cup freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee, hot
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted (optional)
• Crushed biscotti or chocolate shavings for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the Gelato: Scoop small portions of gelato into each mini dessert cup. If using melted chocolate, drizzle a small amount on the inside of each cup before adding the gelato for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Pour Espresso: Just before serving, pour a small amount of hot espresso over the gelato in each cup.
3. Garnish and Serve: Top with crushed biscotti or chocolate shavings for added texture.

These mini affogato cups bring together the bold flavors of espresso and creamy sweetness of vanilla gelato in a delightful contrast. They’re an easy yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for coffee lovers, offering a refreshing treat that’s both sweet and energizing. Enjoy these mini affogato cups for a quick and delightful Italian experience!

Mini Italian Almond Biscotti Parfaits

Biscotti is a popular Italian twice-baked cookie known for its crunchy texture and subtle almond flavor. These mini almond biscotti parfaits layer crushed biscotti with a creamy almond-flavored mascarpone mixture, creating a delightful contrast between crunchy and smooth textures. This dessert is easy to make and adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond biscotti, crushed
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• Slivered almonds for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Layer the Parfaits: Place a layer of crushed biscotti at the bottom of each mini dessert cup, followed by a spoonful of mascarpone cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of mascarpone.
3. Garnish: Top each parfait with a sprinkle of slivered almonds for added crunch.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

These mini almond biscotti parfaits are an elegant, crunchy, and creamy treat that’s perfect for almond lovers. The layered texture and nutty flavor make them a delightful dessert that’s easy to enjoy one spoonful at a time.

Mini Chocolate Hazelnut Panna Cotta

Inspired by Italian panna cotta, this chocolate hazelnut version is silky, creamy, and infused with the irresistible flavor of hazelnut. The smooth chocolate pairs beautifully with the nutty richness, making it an indulgent dessert for chocolate lovers. These mini panna cottas are easy to prepare and perfect for serving at a dinner party.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• 1 tsp unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup water
• Chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar, and heat over medium-low until the sugar dissolves. Add the chocolate hazelnut spread and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Add Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is warm, add the bloomed gelatin and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour and Chill: Pour the panna cotta mixture into mini dessert cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
5. Serve: Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts before serving.

These mini chocolate hazelnut panna cottas are creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying. The hazelnut adds a luxurious note to the dessert, making each bite feel like a little taste of Italy. It’s an ideal treat for those who love the combination of chocolate and nuts.

Mini Ricotta and Honey Stuffed Figs

This dessert celebrates the simplicity of Italian ingredients by pairing fresh figs with a creamy ricotta filling and a drizzle of honey. The natural sweetness of the figs and honey complements the smooth, slightly tangy ricotta, making these mini stuffed figs an elegant yet easy-to-prepare dessert. Perfect for late summer or early fall, these treats bring a taste of rustic Italian charm to the table.

Ingredients

• 8 fresh figs, halved
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tbsp honey, plus more for drizzling
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Crushed pistachios for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Stuff the Figs: Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto each fig half.
3. Drizzle with Honey: Drizzle a little extra honey over each stuffed fig for added sweetness.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios for a pop of color and added texture.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour.

These mini ricotta and honey stuffed figs are an elegant and naturally sweet dessert that celebrates the flavors of Italian countryside. The creamy ricotta and floral honey complement the fresh figs beautifully, creating a dessert that’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for an end-of-summer treat!

Mini Limoncello Pudding Cups

Limoncello is a popular Italian lemon liqueur, known for its bright and zesty flavor. These mini limoncello pudding cups capture the refreshing taste of limoncello in a creamy, silky pudding that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Light, citrusy, and just a touch boozy, these pudding cups are an elegant way to enjoy a hint of Italy in a dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp limoncello (or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic version)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Whipped cream and lemon zest for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Base: In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
2. Add Limoncello and Zest: Once the pudding has thickened, remove from heat and stir in limoncello and lemon zest.
3. Chill the Pudding: Divide the pudding among mini dessert cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Serve: Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

These mini limoncello pudding cups are light, creamy, and refreshing. The limoncello adds a bright citrus flavor that’s perfect for warm weather, making these pudding cups an elegant and sophisticated way to end a meal.

Mini Chocolate Espresso Pots de Crème

Pots de crème are a classic French custard dessert that pairs perfectly with Italian espresso for a rich, coffee-flavored twist. These mini chocolate espresso pots de crème are intensely chocolatey, creamy, and smooth, with just the right hint of coffee to enhance the chocolate. They’re an indulgent yet refined dessert that’s ideal for dinner parties or romantic dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Whipped cream and cocoa powder for garnish
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Heat Cream and Milk: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and milk. Heat over medium heat until just below boiling.
2. Melt Chocolate and Add Espresso: Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until melted, then add the brewed espresso.
3. Mix with Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth. Gradually whisk in the chocolate mixture until fully combined.
4. Bake: Pour the mixture into mini dessert cups, then place them in a baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides of the cups. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 30-35 minutes until set.
5. Chill and Serve: Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder before serving.

These mini chocolate espresso pots de crème are rich, creamy, and full of bold chocolate and coffee flavors. They’re the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers, offering a sophisticated and indulgent treat with every spoonful.

Mini Italian Panna Cotta with Balsamic Strawberries

Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert that’s known for its silky smooth texture and subtle sweetness. This version adds a sophisticated twist by topping each mini panna cotta with balsamic strawberries. The tangy-sweet strawberries pair beautifully with the creamy panna cotta, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup strawberries, chopped
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar (for strawberries)
• Mini dessert cups

Instructions

1. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup water and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Heat Cream and Sugar: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Add Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is warm (but not boiling), add the bloomed gelatin and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into mini dessert cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
5. Prepare Balsamic Strawberries: In a bowl, combine chopped strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve: Spoon a small amount of balsamic strawberries on top of each panna cotta before serving.

These mini panna cotta cups with balsamic strawberries are a sophisticated take on the classic Italian dessert. The creamy panna cotta pairs beautifully with the tangy sweetness of the balsamic strawberries, creating a dessert that’s elegant, balanced, and bursting with flavor.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!