12 Desserts That Complement Red Wine Perfectly

Finding the perfect dessert to pair with red wine can transform an ordinary indulgence into a luxurious experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a cozy night in, or simply looking for a treat to enjoy with your favorite bottle, the right pairing can enhance both the flavors of the wine and the dessert.

Some desserts bring out the deep, fruity notes of a bold red, while others balance its tannins with rich, creamy textures. From chocolate creations to fruit-infused delights, these 12 dessert ideas are carefully selected to complement a variety of red wines. Whether you prefer a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, a smooth Merlot, or a light Pinot Noir, there’s a dessert here to elevate your sipping experience.

Get ready to discover combinations that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the best desserts to enjoy with red wine!

Red Wine Poached Pears

Red wine poached pears are a delightful and sophisticated dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit while infusing it with rich, aromatic flavors. This dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The combination of red wine and spices enhances the pears, creating a luscious syrup that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.

These poached pears pair wonderfully with a variety of desserts. Consider serving them alongside dark chocolate lava cake or gourmet wine and dessert pairings to create a memorable experience. You can even drizzle some of the syrup over flourless chocolate cake for an indulgent treat. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these pears are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears, peeled and cored
• 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works well)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Poaching Liquid: In a large saucepan, combine red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, star anise, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add the Pears: Once the mixture is simmering, gently add the peeled pears. Make sure they are submerged in the wine mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
3. Poach the Pears: Let the pears poach for about 25-30 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are tender but not falling apart. Check for doneness by piercing the pears with a fork.
4. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pears from the saucepan and set them aside. Increase the heat and let the poaching liquid simmer until it reduces to a thicker syrup, about another 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
5. Plate and Garnish: Serve the pears drizzled with the syrup and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Raspberry Truffle Brownies

Raspberry truffle brownies are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries. The fudgy texture paired with the burst of raspberry flavor creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. These brownies are quite simple to make, making them perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

The deep chocolate flavor compliments a glass of red wine beautifully, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re hosting a wine night or just looking for an easy sweet treat, these brownies are sure to impress. Enjoy them with a glass of red wine for a gourmet pairing that elevates your dessert experience!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the raspberries and chocolate chips to the brownie batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and enjoy with your favorite red wine!

Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is a delightful chocolate dessert that shines with its rich flavors and vibrant presentation. This German classic combines layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy whipped cream, and tart cherries, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s an impressive yet straightforward treat that’s great for any occasion, making it an ideal companion for a glass of red wine.

The combination of chocolate and cherries makes Black Forest Cake a standout choice among the best desserts with red wine. The cake’s bold flavors and elegant layers are not only delicious but also visually stunning, capturing the essence of gourmet wine and dessert pairings. Serve it at gatherings for a sweet indulgence that will leave your guests raving!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 jar (24 oz) morello cherries, drained
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• Dark chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Stir in boiling water until smooth.
3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Once the cakes are cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
6. Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate, spreading a layer of whipped cream, and topping it with cherries. Repeat this process with the remaining layers.
7. Finish the cake with a final layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with dark chocolate shavings and whole cherries.
8. Slice and serve with your favorite red wine for a delicious pairing!

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Chocolate-covered strawberries are the perfect blend of sweet and fruity, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, ideal for those looking for quick sweet treats for wine nights. The rich, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the juicy strawberries, creating a romantic dessert that complements red wine perfectly.

This dessert can elevate your holiday dessert and wine pairings or be a simple indulgence for a cozy night in. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these wine-friendly chocolate treats in no time. Plus, the presentation is stunning, making them great for sharing or impressing guests!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and dried
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)
• Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Ensure the strawberries are completely dry. Any moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking properly.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
3. Dip the Strawberries: Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted dark chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Melt the White Chocolate: Repeat the melting process with the white chocolate. Drizzle over the dipped strawberries for a beautiful finish.
5. Chill and Serve: Sprinkle with sea salt if desired, then refrigerate the strawberries for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has set. Enjoy these delightful chocolate-covered strawberries with your favorite red wine!

Cherry Almond Tart

The Cherry Almond Tart is a delightful blend of sweet cherries and nutty almond flavors that makes it a perfect dessert to pair with red wine. This tart features a crisp, buttery crust filled with a luscious cherry filling, topped with slivers of almonds for an added crunch. It’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it ideal for hosting or a cozy night in.

This dessert is versatile enough to complement various red wines, enhancing the fruity notes in the wine while offering a satisfying sweet treat. Whether you’re enjoying it after a rich meal or as a stand-alone coffee break indulgence, this tart is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made tart crust
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 egg, for egg wash

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the cherries.
3. Place the tart crust in a tart pan and pour the cherry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top.
5. Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
7. Let it cool before slicing. Serve with a glass of red wine for the perfect pairing.

Dark Chocolate Lava Cake

Dark Chocolate Lava Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of magic to any occasion. With its rich chocolate exterior and a warm, gooey center, this cake is a chocolate lover’s dream. It’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special celebrations.

This dessert pairs wonderfully with red wine, enhancing its deep, intense flavors. The combination of the molten chocolate and the fruity notes of a good red wine creates a romantic experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh raspberries for a lovely presentation. Here’s how you can make this irresistible treat:

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Butter and cocoa powder for greasing ramekins

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess.
2. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or on a double boiler until smooth. Stir in the powdered sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs and egg yolks to the mixture, whisking until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for 1 minute. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh raspberries or a scoop of ice cream.

Flourless Chocolate Torte

The flourless chocolate torte is a rich and fudgy dessert that offers a delightful experience for chocolate lovers. With its intense chocolate flavor and velvety texture, this dessert is perfect for pairing with a glass of red wine. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients, making it an easy sweet treat for wine nights.

This torte is a wonderful option for those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just having a cozy night in, this dessert will surely satisfy your cravings. Serve it alongside some fresh berries for a refreshing contrast that complements the deep flavors of the chocolate.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, sift in the cocoa powder and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly puffed.
6. Allow the torte to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a plate. Remove the parchment paper and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
7. Serve with fresh berries and a glass of red wine for a heavenly pairing!

Espresso-Infused Chocolate Mousse

This espresso-infused chocolate mousse is a rich and creamy dessert that brings together the bold flavors of dark chocolate and the aromatic essence of coffee. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for pairing with a glass of red wine. The combination of velvety chocolate and a hint of espresso creates a luxurious experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Making this mousse is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a dessert that impresses. It’s a fantastic choice for romantic dinners or special occasions, especially when served alongside red wine for the ultimate pairing!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons brewed espresso
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and brewed espresso. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. Let it cool slightly.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Mix the Yolks: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks into the cooled chocolate mixture until well combined.
4. Combine with Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.
5. Fold in Egg Whites: Finally, carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture, being gentle to maintain the volume.
6. Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans if desired.

Blackberry Cobbler With Vanilla Ice Cream

Blackberry cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Bursting with juicy blackberries and topped with a golden, buttery crust, it’s an easy sweet treat for wine nights that everyone will love. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a delightful combination that melts in your mouth.

This recipe is simple to whip up and showcases the natural flavors of the blackberries beautifully. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for the best desserts with red wine, making it a perfect match for a cozy evening.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh blackberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine fresh blackberries, 1/2 cup of the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
2. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining sugar. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined.
3. Pour the batter evenly over the blackberry mixture. Do not stir.
4. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the blackberry filling is bubbly.
5. Let cool slightly before serving. Scoop onto plates and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Fig And Honey Ricotta Cheesecake

This Fig and Honey Ricotta Cheesecake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The creamy texture of the ricotta combined with the sweetness of honey and fresh figs creates a harmonious balance that’s both rich and refreshing. It’s perfect for those wine nights where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The taste is heavenly, with a slight nuttiness from the crust and the natural sweetness from the figs. It pairs wonderfully with red wine, making it a fantastic choice for your next gathering. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your evening!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup honey
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• Fresh figs, sliced (for topping)
• Extra honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
3. In another bowl, beat together ricotta cheese, cream cheese, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour this mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
5. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, top with fresh fig slices and drizzle with extra honey.

Spiced Molten Chocolate Pudding

Spiced molten chocolate pudding is a delightful treat that brings together the rich, velvety texture of chocolate with warm spices to create a cozy dessert perfect for any occasion. The combination of molten chocolate and a hint of spice makes each spoonful a comforting indulgence that pairs beautifully with red wine.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. You’ll love how the warm, gooey center contrasts with a slightly crisp exterior, making it one of the best chocolate desserts for wine lovers. It’s a charming dessert to impress guests or enjoy on a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease four ramekins with butter.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together until smooth, stirring frequently.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate mixture and mix well.
4. Gently fold in the flour, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for about 12-14 minutes, until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft.
7. Let them cool for a minute, then run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates. Serve warm for that molten effect, ideally with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors.

Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Bark

Salted caramel dark chocolate bark is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the sweet and salty kick of caramel. This simple recipe is perfect for those looking to impress their guests or simply satisfy a sweet tooth. The balance of bitterness from the chocolate and the sweetness of the caramel creates an irresistible flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with red wine.

Making this bark is incredibly easy and requires only a few ingredients. It’s a fun dessert to whip up on a cozy night in, especially when you’re planning an easy red wine dessert pairing. Enjoy it with a glass of your favorite red wine for a gourmet experience!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Optional toppings: crushed nuts, sea salt flakes, or dried fruit

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
2. Prepare the Bark: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the sheet and spread it into a thin layer using a spatula.
3. Add Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the caramel into the chocolate for a marbled effect.
4. Sprinkle Salt: Immediately sprinkle sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors.
5. Set the Bark: Let the chocolate bark cool at room temperature until set, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for quicker results.
6. Break and Serve: Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for the perfect pairing!

Find Local Dessert Shops or List Your Own

Want to enjoy expertly made desserts paired with red wine? Check out our dessert directory to find local bakeries, dessert shops, and wine bars offering perfectly paired sweet treats.

Own a bakery or dessert business? List your shop for free in our directory and connect with wine lovers searching for the perfect pairing. Can’t find your favorite spot? Support small businesses by adding their listing for free!

Share Your Favorite Wine & Dessert Pairings

Have a go-to dessert and wine pairing that never fails? Submit your recipe here and join a community of wine and dessert lovers sharing their favorite pairings.

Pairing desserts with red wine is about finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you love dark chocolate, berry-infused treats, or creamy delights, these 12 dessert ideas will help you create a wine experience worth savoring.

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At Creme Filled Churros, we love bringing together great flavors. Try these 12 desserts that complement red wine perfectly and elevate your next wine night with the perfect pairing!